American Optical
Europa Eyewear · United States
American Optical, known as AO, is an American eyewear brand whose history goes back to 1833. It makes sunglasses and optical frames and is known for pilot styles such as the Original Pilot, worn by pilots, US presidents and NASA crews.
| Founded | 1833 |
|---|---|
| Signature style | Original Pilot |
| Lens | Calobar Green |
| Country | United States |
| Website | aoeyewear.com |
What is American Optical?
American Optical, often shortened to AO, is one of the oldest eyewear names in the United States, with a history dating to 1833. The brand says its founders believed eyewear should be accessible to everyone, not only the elite, and that idea remains part of how it presents itself.
History
AO built its reputation on sunwear made for demanding conditions. The brand originated styles worn by military pilots, by US presidents and by NASA space crews, and it presents its sunglasses as the choice of the first astronauts on the Moon during the Apollo programme. That heritage is central to the label's identity today.
Products and positioning
The current range combines archive designs with newer styles:
- Original Pilot, offered in gold with Calobar Green lenses
- Heritage sunwear inspired by aviation and space exploration
- Styles such as Margot and Saratoga
The brand references a state-of-the-art American facility and positions its frames as durable, functional eyewear with a documented history rather than a fashion trend.
Why it matters
American Optical shows how a long industrial history can be turned into a heritage fashion brand. Its pilot frames are part of the wider story of the aviator sunglass, one of the most copied silhouettes in eyewear.
Frequently asked questions
When was American Optical founded?
American Optical traces its history to 1833, making it one of the oldest eyewear names in the United States.
What is American Optical known for?
AO is known for pilot sunglasses such as the Original Pilot, worn by pilots, US presidents and NASA crews.