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Persol 649 Original vs American Optical Original Pilot
Persol 649 Original ($363) vs American Optical Original Pilot ($250) — side-by-side specs, weight, pros and cons to help you pick the right sunglasses.
Spec-by-spec
| Spec | Persol 649 Original | American Optical Original Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $363 | $250 |
| Weight | 30g | 40g |
| Frame | Acetate + ground cotton | Steel |
| Hinge | Supreme Arrow Meflecto | — |
| Origin | Agordo, Italy | USA |
| Lens | Crystal or polycarbonate | Glass CR-39 options |
| UV | 100% UV400 | — |
| Heritage | Since 1957 | — |
| Temples | — | Bayonet |
Pros & Cons
Persol 649 Original
- Italian acetate masterpiece
- Meflecto temples reduce fatigue
- Supreme Arrow hinge trademark
- Proven since 1957
- Cotton + acetate lightweight
- $320 premium
- Keyhole bridge polarizing fit
- Dark lenses limited indoors
American Optical Original Pilot
- NASA heritage
- American made
- Glass lens option
- Heavy
- Only pilot shape
American Optical Original Pilot is the better value at $250. If weight matters most, Persol 649 Original carries lighter at 30g. Both are part of our curated sunglasses index — tap through to check current pricing.