The famous brand Ray-Ban was created by the American company Bausch & Lomb.
The first RB model, "Aviator", was requested by John A. Macready, an American lieutenant. He asked the opticians Bausch & Lomb to manufacture a pair of "panoramic and wraparound protective" sunglasses with a lens filtering ultraviolet and infrared rays to regain optimal comfort when exposed to the sun.
The US Air Force ordered this model for its fighter pilots in 1933, and it was released to the general public 3 years later, in 1936.
Ray-Ban Aviator, a 1980s success
Sales of the Aviator model took off in the 1980s thanks to international pop star Michael Jackson, who was a big fan of the model and never hesitated to wear it whenever he appeared in public.
Today, more than 80 years after the launch of the Aviator model, it remains one of the best-selling sunglasses and optical models among young and old alike. A great success for Ray-Ban.
Wayfarer, a model popular with Hollywood actors
Ray-Ban didn't stop at one model; a few years later, the brand offered the Wayfarer model.
Indeed, it appeared on the market in 1952 and immediately appealed to Hollywood actors and actresses as well as many rockers!
Thanks to its timeless shape, the quality of its materials (frame, lenses) and its relatively reasonable price, Ray-Ban established itself as THE best seller of sunglasses, and this model is probably Ray-Ban's best seller, even today.
