How We Manufacture
Our Sunglasses
AO Eyewear meticulously manufactures metal and acetate sunglasses in our US factory using the finest global components. We take great pride in being the oldest American sunglasses manufacturer.
The AO manufacturing process marries craft and engineering to create iconic eyewear.
There’s a legacy of quality behind every AO frame. It goes back to 1833 and a commitment to make quality eyewear accessible to everyone. At AO, eyewear manufacturing is rooted in a craftsmanship. We bring together expert craftspeople and the finest materials in our state-of-the-art factory. Learn more...
Craft That Has Been Honed for over 150 Years
American Optical has been revolutionizing eyewear manufacturing since 1833. Born from founder William Beecher’s simple and stubborn philosophy of “I can do it better,” AO has pioneered advancements that changed the way we see. The first rimless frame,
Ful-vue temples that expanded vision, the first aviator sunglasses, the list goes on. In the same spirit, AO Eyewear continues to manufacture in the USA, now committed to making the finest eyewear using sustainable practices in our sunglasses manufacturing process.
Our Process
Strict quality control
Uncompromising Standards
With AO heritage comes unwavering quality. AO craftsmen are sculptors, machinists, and perfectionists, rolled into one. Every AO frame progresses through rigorous quality control processes throughout production ensuring every frame shipped is held to the highest standards.
The mark of True Original style
American Craftsmen
There is no machine in the world as valuable as a skilled craftsman when it comes to manufacturing sunglasses. Every AO frame is handcrafted in our Illinois factory. Our process blends machining and handwork to create the highest quality frames.
The return of the Saratoga
The Result
The finished product blends lasting style, carefully engineered comfort, and quality you can count on, guaranteed for life. To us, that’s what it means to be a True Original.
See it for Yourself
We love talking about how we make eyewear. What we love even more is showing how we make eyewear. Click below to learn about scheduling a visit to tour our factory.
Sustainability
AO is committed to creating the smallest carbon footprint possible in crafting our metal and acetate sunglasses. We invest in recycling all metal and acetate scraps. Water used in manufacturing is continuously cleaned so it can be reused for at least six months.
Frequently Asked
A Storied Sunglasses Manufacturer
AO Eyewear's American-manufactured sunglasses are handcrafted in our US factory using the finest global components. See what true quality looks like.
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