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The American Optical TIMES Sunglasses bring back a mid-century classic that's been turning heads since the 1950s. This round acetate frame is a deep dive into AO's archives—a faithful revival of an often-copied design that the brand first introduced over 70 years ago. What you see in the photos is exactly what you get: clean lines, a distinctive two-tone acetate construction (notice the bold upper rim contrasting with the crystal-clear lower frame on select colorways), and those signature diamond-shaped temple cutouts that mark authentic AO craftsmanship.
Made in America Since 1833
American Optical isn't just another eyewear brand—it's the oldest optical company in U.S. history. Founded in 1833, AO pioneered the first aviator sunglasses for military pilots, sent frames to the moon with the Apollo 11 crew, and became JFK's go-to sunglasses brand. The TIMES continues that legacy with frames handmade in the USA using premium Italian acetate that's tumbled and hand-polished over several days to achieve the rich, lustrous finish you can see in these frames. Each pair features robust 7-barrel hinges—the kind of hardware built to last years, not months.
Vintage Style, Modern Fit
The TIMES walks the line between a classic round frame and a clubmaster-inspired silhouette. The P3 shape flatters a variety of face shapes, particularly oval, square, and heart-shaped faces. Available in two sizes—47mm for smaller faces and 49mm for medium builds—the frame sits comfortably with a 21mm bridge and 145mm temples. The acetate construction keeps the weight down while the updated ergonomics (refined from the original 1950s specs) ensure all-day comfort whether you're wearing them as sunglasses or adding prescription lenses.
Prescription-Ready & UV Protection
These frames are fully prescription-ready, compatible with single vision, progressive, and reader lenses. The included AOLite nylon lenses provide 100% UVA/UVB protection and meet ANSI Z80.3 impact-resistance standards. Choose from True-Color Gray for neutral color perception, True-Tone Green for enhanced contrast, or SunVogue Gray Gradient for a sophisticated fade. Polarized options are available for glare reduction on water and pavement.
If you're looking for American-made quality that's not owned by the big conglomerates, the TIMES delivers. It's a frame with real history, built the right way, and designed to be your daily pair for years to come.
Product Details
Product DetailsModel
TimesShape
Gender
Material
Bridge Type
Rim Type
Age Group
Color Details
Color DetailsFrame Color
BlackColor Code
3Color Description
Black CrystalLens Color
SunVogue Gray Gradient
Color Code
1Color Description
Chestnut SandLens Color
True-Color Gray
Frame Color
GrayColor Code
2Color Description
Gray CrystalLens Color
True-Tone Green
Frame Color
BlackColor Code
3Color Description
Black CrystalLens Color
SunVogue Gray Gradient
Frame Color
BlackColor Code
5Color Description
BlackLens Color
True-Color Gray
Frame Color
TortoiseColor Code
4Color Description
TortoiseLens Color
True-Tone Green
Frame Color
BlackColor Code
3Color Description
Black CrystalLens Color
True-Color Gray
Frame Color
BlackColor Code
3Color Description
Black CrystalLens Color
True-Color Gray
Size Details
Size DetailsBridge Width
21Temple Length
145Size
4721-145
Bridge Width
21Temple Length
145Size
4721-145
Bridge Width
21Temple Length
145Size
4721-145
Bridge Width
21Temple Length
145Size
4921-145
Bridge Width
21Temple Length
145Size
4921-145
Bridge Width
21Temple Length
145Size
4921-145
Bridge Width
21Temple Length
145Size
4921-145
Bridge Width
21Temple Length
145Size
4721-145
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are American Optical TIMES sunglasses prescription-ready?
Yes, the TIMES frames are fully prescription-ready and compatible with single vision, progressive, bifocal, and reader lenses. The full-rim acetate construction provides a stable base for prescription lens installation. Many optical labs can fit these frames with your prescription, including polarized and photochromic (Transitions) options.
What size should I choose: 47mm or 49mm?
The 47mm lens width is designed for smaller faces and provides a more compact fit, while the 49mm works better for medium-sized faces. Both sizes share the same 21mm bridge width and 145mm temple length. If you typically wear small or medium frames, start with the 47mm; if you prefer a slightly larger coverage or have a wider face, the 49mm is the better choice.
Are American Optical sunglasses really made in the USA?
Yes, American Optical frames are manufactured in Vernon Hills, Illinois. AO is the oldest American eyewear company (founded 1833) and brought manufacturing back to the USA after previously outsourcing. The acetate is sourced from Italy, but the frames are cut, assembled, tumbled, and hand-polished in their American facility.
What is the difference between True-Color Gray and True-Tone Green lenses?
True-Color Gray lenses provide neutral color perception and reduce brightness evenly across the spectrum—ideal for driving and general use. True-Tone Green lenses enhance contrast and are particularly effective in variable light conditions. Both lens types offer 100% UVA/UVB protection and are made from impact-resistant AOLite nylon material.
How does the TIMES compare to a Ray-Ban Clubmaster?
The TIMES has a full acetate round frame, whereas the Clubmaster features a mixed-material browline design with metal lower rims. The TIMES offers a softer, more vintage 1950s aesthetic with its P3 shape, while the Clubmaster has a more structured, angular browline look. Both are unisex styles, but the TIMES is made in the USA and not owned by Luxottica.
What are the 7-barrel hinges on the TIMES frames?
The 7-barrel hinges are heavy-duty, multi-barrel hinge mechanisms that provide superior durability compared to standard 3 or 5-barrel hinges. More barrels mean more contact points and better weight distribution, resulting in a hinge that's less likely to loosen or break over time. This is a hallmark of quality construction in premium eyewear.
Compare With Similar Frames
How the American Optical TIMES Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Iconic aviator-inspired shape with more angular lines
- Slightly larger lens coverage for sun protection
- JFK's signature style with strong historical cachet
- Similar round P3 shape with vintage appeal
- Same USA manufacturing and quality standards
- May offer different colorway options
Read the full comparison
American Optical TIMES vs SARATOGA vs TOURNAMENT
Choosing between American Optical models comes down to face shape and style preference—all three are made in the USA with the same quality standards and similar pricing ($210-$230).
TIMES vs SARATOGA: The TIMES offers a round, vintage P3 shape that's softer and more versatile for everyday wear and prescription use. The SARATOGA is AO's iconic aviator worn by JFK—more angular, with larger teardrop lenses that provide maximum sun coverage. If you have a square or round face and want definition, the SARATOGA's aviator lines work well. If you prefer a retro, intellectual look that works equally well indoors with clear lenses, the TIMES is the better choice. The SARATOGA makes a bolder statement; the TIMES is the understated classic.
TIMES vs TOURNAMENT: Both share the round P3 aesthetic, but the TIMES distinguishes itself with the signature diamond temple cutouts and available two-tone acetate colorways (like the black-over-crystal and tortoise-over-honey options). The TIMES has more documented heritage as a 1950s archive revival, while the TOURNAMENT is a solid round option without as much backstory. For customers who want the most distinctive round AO frame with visible design details, the TIMES edges ahead.
Our recommendation: The TIMES hits the sweet spot for customers who want American-made heritage, prescription versatility, and a shape that's recognizable as vintage without being overly common. It's the thinking person's round frame—less ubiquitous than a Clubmaster, more refined than a basic P3, and backed by nearly two centuries of American optical innovation.
At a Glance
American Optical SARATOGA Sunglasses
Pros:
- Iconic aviator-inspired shape with more angular lines
- Slightly larger lens coverage for sun protection
- JFK's signature style with strong historical cachet
- Better suited for square or round faces seeking definition
Cons:
- Less versatile for prescription use due to aviator shape
- Larger frame may overwhelm smaller faces
- More common/recognizable style than the TIMES
American Optical TOURNAMENT Sunglasses
Pros:
- Similar round P3 shape with vintage appeal
- Same USA manufacturing and quality standards
- May offer different colorway options
- Comparable prescription compatibility
Cons:
- Less distinctive temple design than the TIMES
- May not have the same two-tone acetate options
- Less documented heritage story than the TIMES