Persol

Persol was founded in 1917 in Turin by Giuseppe Ratti, owner of Berry optical, who created the brand to serve pilots and sports drivers requiring protective eyewear. The name derives from the Italian "per il sole" (for the sun). The legendary Model 649, introduced in 1957, was originally designed for Turin's tram drivers who needed wide lenses to protect against dust exposure. The frame's distinctive features—a keyhole bridge, acetate silhouette, and signature Silver Arrow hinge mechanism—became instantly recognizable. The 649 achieved worldwide cultural prominence when worn by actor Marcello Mastroianni, cementing its position as a cinema icon and symbol of Italian style. Despite acquisition by Luxottica, Persol has maintained production at its historic factory in Lauriano, near Turin, preserving the original manufacturing heritage. The 649 remains one of the most recognizable eyewear shapes globally, balancing heritage aesthetics with contemporary appeal. The brand continues serving customers seeking either classic heritage frames or contemporary designs that reference Persol's founding principles of pilot-grade optical quality and durable construction.