Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Chesterfield Pioneer Sunglasses prescription-ready?
What are the benefits of polarized lenses in these sunglasses?
How durable are stainless steel sunglasses frames?
What face shapes work best with pilot/aviator style sunglasses?
Who manufactures Chesterfield eyewear?
What size are the Chesterfield Pioneer Sunglasses?
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Chesterfield Pioneer Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Carrera brand recognition and sporty aesthetic
- Similar price range with polarized options
- Safilo manufacturing quality
- Designer brand cachet at accessible pricing
- Modern aviator styling
- Lighter weight for all-day comfort
Read the full comparison
Chesterfield Pioneer vs. Similar Pilot Sunglasses
If you're considering the Chesterfield Pioneer, you're likely weighing classic pilot style against other metal aviators in the $80-$120 range. Here's how the Pioneer compares to two strong alternatives in our catalog.
Chesterfield Pioneer vs. Carrera 1055
Both the Pioneer and the Carrera 1055 are manufactured by Safilo and share similar construction quality. The Carrera 1055 ($102-$120) brings a sportier, more contemporary edge to the pilot silhouette, while the Chesterfield Pioneer emphasizes classic, understated masculinity. If you prefer brand recognition and a slightly more athletic look, the Carrera 1055 delivers. If you want a more traditional pilot aesthetic with substantial stainless steel construction and a less logo-forward design, the Pioneer is the better choice. Both offer polarized lenses and prescription compatibility.
Chesterfield Pioneer vs. Armani Exchange 2012S
The Armani Exchange 2012S ($73-$86) offers designer branding at a lower price point than the Pioneer. It's a lighter, more fashion-forward take on aviator style—ideal if you prioritize brand cachet and a modern look. However, the Pioneer's stainless steel construction provides superior durability and a more substantial feel. The Chesterfield also offers better corrosion resistance for outdoor use and a more generous 63mm lens width for larger faces. Choose the Armani Exchange if brand name and contemporary styling matter most; choose the Pioneer if you value build quality, durability, and classic pilot design.
Why Choose the Chesterfield Pioneer?
The Pioneer occupies a sweet spot: it's more affordable than premium aviators like Ray-Ban, but built with better materials and more attention to durability than budget alternatives. The stainless steel frame resists corrosion and maintains its shape, the polarized lenses genuinely reduce glare, and the 63mm sizing fits medium to larger faces comfortably. If you want a no-nonsense, well-constructed pair of pilot sunglasses without paying for hype or unnecessary branding, the Chesterfield Pioneer delivers.
At a Glance
Carrera 1055 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Carrera brand recognition and sporty aesthetic
- Similar price range with polarized options
- Safilo manufacturing quality
- Lightweight metal construction
Cons:
- Less classic/understated than Chesterfield
- May have smaller lens coverage depending on variant
- Sportier look may not suit all occasions
Armani Exchange 2012S Sunglasses
Pros:
- Designer brand cachet at accessible pricing
- Modern aviator styling
- Lighter weight for all-day comfort
- Fashion-forward aesthetic
Cons:
- Less substantial build than stainless steel Pioneer
- May lack the rugged durability of Chesterfield
- Trendier design may date faster than classic pilot shape



