Persol
EssilorLuxottica · Italy
Persol is an Italian eyewear brand founded in Turin in 1917 by optician Giuseppe Ratti, originally making glasses for pilots and racing drivers. It is part of the Luxottica portfolio within EssilorLuxottica. The brand is known for craft details such as the Meflecto flexible temple and for its long association with Steve McQueen.
| Founded | 1917 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Giuseppe Ratti |
| Owner | EssilorLuxottica (via Luxottica) |
| Headquarters | Turin, Italy |
| Signature detail | Meflecto flexible temple |
| Website | persol.com |
What is Persol?
Persol makes sunglasses and optical frames with a strong emphasis on Italian craftsmanship and technical details. Its official website describes its eyewear as crafted in Italy, and its frames in cellulose acetate are made in Italy. The website is operated by Luxottica Group, the eyewear manufacturer of EssilorLuxottica.
History
The brand was founded in 1917 in Turin by Giuseppe Ratti, owner of the Berry optical business, initially to protect pilots and sports drivers. Persol developed the Meflecto system, a patented flexible temple and one of the first spring mechanisms for eyewear. The brand reached the United States in 1962 and opened a boutique on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills in 1991. It later became part of Luxottica, and it remained with the group after the 2018 merger with Essilor.
Products and positioning
Persol sits in the premium segment, with a more classic and discreet image than many fashion eyewear brands. The current range includes:
- Sunglasses and optical frames for men and women
- An Icons range of heritage shapes
- A Steve McQueen series and other themed collections
- Collaborations such as Persol Olivetti and a Cassina project
The brand offers glass lenses by Barberini and Persol signature lenses, as well as frame engraving. Its current focus, according to Wikipedia, includes durable sunglasses with roots in its original sporting use.
Business model and distribution
Persol is distributed through opticians and other wholesale accounts, EssilorLuxottica's retail chains and its own e-commerce site. Collections are released seasonally, with the website presenting new icons for autumn and winter 2026.
Why it matters
Persol demonstrates how a large eyewear group manages a portfolio of owned brands with distinct identities. Alongside Ray-Ban and Oakley, it gives EssilorLuxottica a heritage Italian label focused on craft rather than mass fashion appeal.
Frequently asked questions
Who owns Persol?
Persol is part of EssilorLuxottica. The brand belongs to the Luxottica portfolio, and its official website is operated by Luxottica Group S.p.A.
Where is Persol from?
Persol is an Italian brand founded in Turin in 1917 by Giuseppe Ratti. Its acetate frames are made in Italy.