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American Optical Original Pilot vs Persol 714 Folding

American Optical Original Pilot ($250) vs Persol 714 Folding ($452) — side-by-side specs, weight, pros and cons to help you pick the right sunglasses.

American Optical Original Pilot
American Optical
Original Pilot
$250
NASA-worn
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Persol 714 Folding
Persol
714 Folding
$452
Verified 2026
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Spec-by-spec
SpecAmerican Optical Original PilotPersol 714 Folding
Price$250$452
Weight40g28g
LensGlass CR-39 options—
FrameSteel—
TemplesBayonet—
OriginUSA—
Pros & Cons

American Optical Original Pilot

  • NASA heritage
  • American made
  • Glass lens option
  • Heavy
  • Only pilot shape

Persol 714 Folding

  • —
American Optical Original Pilot is the better value at $250. If weight matters most, Persol 714 Folding carries lighter at 28g. Both are part of our curated sunglasses index — tap through to check current pricing.
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