Is the Persol PO0714 worth it over a regular aviator?

If you want a full-size pilot that folds into a small case, yes. If you never pack sunglasses small, a fixed-frame pilot offers the same look for less.

How small does it fold?

The bridge and both temples fold, so it collapses to roughly half its open width. It fits a jacket pocket or a small hard case.

Are the lenses polarized?

Yes. The crystal lenses are polarized, gradient and anti-reflective, in category 3N for bright conditions.

What face size does the 54-21 fit?

It is a large fit: 54mm lenses, 21mm bridge and 140mm temples. It suits regular to medium-wide faces; narrow faces may find it loose.

Can I replace the lenses?

Persol frames can be reglazed by an optician, but the folding bridge makes fitting more involved than on a standard frame.

What comes in the box?

It ships with a folding case and cleaning cloth; check the listing for the exact accessories included.

Where is the Persol PO0714 Folding Sunglasses cheapest?

At Birrificio Vezzetti. Club23, for $51.00, 89% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

Where can I buy the Persol PO0714 Folding Sunglasses?

19 stores we checked sell it, including GlassesOnWeb.com, EZContacts.com, Mia Burton, Sunglass Hut, Bloomingdale's.

Persol PO0714 Folding Sunglasses Price History: $51.00

What reviewers say

Owners of the PO0714 tend to praise the build, the folding mechanism and the classic look, and many call it their go-to travel pair. Complaints center on the price and on the folding joints feeling stiff or loosening over time.

What people mention

Folding mechanismMixedOwners like how small it packs but say the hinges need care and can loosen over time.
Lens glarePraisedPolarized gradient lenses are said to cut glare well on water and roads.
Build qualityPraisedReviewers describe the acetate and hardware as solid and well finished.
PriceCriticisedMany say it costs more than comparable non-folding pilots.
FitMixedThe 54mm size suits most, but some find the folded frame bulky at the bridge.

From Balardi

First folding sunglasses in history, introduced in the 1960s as an evolution of the PO0649
Iconic teardrop shape with keyhole bridge and innovative folding system
Italian craftsmanship requiring ten extra production steps compared to standard models
Worn by Steve McQueen in the film "The Thomas Crown Affair"
Brand new condition
Unisex design

Guarantee: Authenticity guaranteed by Balardi: expert inspected and authenticated
Returns: 14-day easy returns for any reason, with refund or store credit; return label provided; countdown starts when you request the return
Shipping: Express delivery via UPS/DHL, 2–5 business days to most countries; expedited option available; import duties and taxes not included for customers outside the EU

About the Persol PO0714 Folding Sunglasses

Discover the legendary Persol PO0714, the first folding sunglasses in history, introduced in the 1960s as an evolution of the PO0649. With its iconic teardrop shape, keyhole bridge, and innovative folding system, this masterpiece of Italian craftsmanship is the result of ten extra production steps compared to standard models. Every detail is designed to offer timeless elegance and superior quality. Worn by Steve McQueen in the famous film "The Thomas Crown Affair," the Persol PO0714 is a symbol of unmistakable style. Don’t let this fashion icon slip away – join the history and make a piece of perfection yours!