The LifeHacking website continues the “History of Creation” section and this time will introduce you to the history of the Ray-Ban company.

1. Founding of the company and the first order for pilots

Company Ray-Ban registered its brand in the distant 1937 year and completely captured the market among sunglasses. The Ray-Ban brand that produced the sun protective glasses, the first to reach the global level among “optical” companies. This brand quickly gained popularity among the population.
The company was born thanks to specialists from the corporation Bausch & Lomb. It was they who created the first glasses for military pilots from the Ray-Ban brand.

Second birth company occurred in 1990 year. At the end of the last century, the brand Ray-Ban together with the company Luxottica(world leader in optics) bought all rights to produce sunglasses. This decision had a positive impact on the future of both companies. After acquiring the production rights, both brands begin to fill Italy with Ray-Ban factories! IN this moment Italy's economy depends on the production of sunglasses.

The history of further PR is closely connected with Hollywood. Stars fell in love with Ray-Ban brand glasses and began using them in their films. The list of films in which glasses of this brand were used is almost endless. For almost 100 years, the Ray-Ban brand has been popular among celebrities, some of whom openly claim that the company is the best in the world!

2. Development of the Aviator branch and a new proprietary model

Also in 1929 year, a company already known to us Bausch & Lomb received an order from US Air Force. Military aviation needed goggles that could protect their eyes from air flow and sun rays blinded pilots. In addition, special lenses improved clarity of vision due to their shape and material.

Soon, drop-shaped glasses became a mandatory accessory for pilots in the United States. Pilots noted excellent sun protection qualities.

The glasses caught on with pilots so much that they began to wear them even in their free time. Ordinary citizens, having seen glasses on pilots in the city, also wanted to buy such glasses for themselves. Thus, companies Ray-Ban I had to launch serial production of such glasses. The shape of the glasses itself was called Large Metal and a whole line was released - Aviator.

After the launch of serial production Aviator, the company introduced a new form of glasses Wayfarer. The new model quickly gained popularity among movie stars and was often used in Hollywood. This model is still popular today and is shown in the picture above. Wayfarer- the first model made of high quality plastic. Despite the fact that the model was released in 1950, its design looks modern!

3. High quality and launch of the Sport line

In 1960, Ray-Ban switched to new level quality, using high technology in its production. Thanks to new technologies, the first unbreakable lenses appeared. The brand's popularity has increased since the glasses were spotted on celebrities. Even the first lady of the United States of the 60s, Jacqueline Kennedy, wore Ray-Ban glasses.

The company developed at the speed of light; no brand could compete with Ray-Ban in America!

In the 1970s, the company caught the trend in the popularity of winter sports and released a new line of sunglasses. The collection is called " Skis and Sports" and has two models of glasses " Vagabond" And " Stateside" Athletes found the new glasses comfortable, so Ray-Ban promoted itself even more. They also released a version for climbers with mirrored green lenses. This model was distinguished by its fantastic strength, which made it popular among climbers of that time. By the way, glasses are also popular among athletes these days!

Every year the company worked to improve its models. Several designers worked on each model. Thus, exclusive models appeared, with multi-colored lenses and frames.

4. Popular Ray-Ban Clubmaster

In 1986 legendary model of sunglasses comes out this year Ray-Ban Clubmaster. This model perfectly emphasizes the eyebrows, thanks to its bold frame. Glasses were popular among young people and emphasized an elegant dress code.

In 1990 year in the era of rapid development of the Internet, with the help of which people learned about style in different countries, new styles and trends in clothing appeared. There were so many styles that we had to select unique accessories for each. Soon, Ray-Ban begins to release new lines with different models of sunglasses.

At the same time, the brand was divided into three directions: classic, modern and new with cutting-edge lines. The classic line meant sunglasses that went down in history. The company also improved its quality by developing more and more new lenses and technologies that block the sun's rays.

I would like to note the efforts of the company, because Ray-Ban were able to catch all the trends in every decade. The company has achieved a lot in half a century, but it started with an order from the US Air Force only for pilots. The brand has won its huge audience for its magical quality! Every year, Ray-Ban delighted people with its new products.

5. Ray-Ban in the modern world

Nowadays, Ray-Ban is popular not only in the USA and Europe, but throughout the world. There are millions of fakes that are also in demand all over the world. by the company Ray-Ban completely controlled, already familiar to us, Italian Luxottica Group. Luxottica bought the brand and remained true to the classic style of the brand. The company has fully preserved the technology for producing sunglasses.

Every season, Ray-Ban releases new color collections of glasses, and a separate matte line has also appeared. Frosted glasses are also popular all over the world. Stars still respect the Ray-Ban brand and never stop wearing glasses from this company. Ray-Bans can be found in modern films, and the list of films in which they appear is growing every year.

The company launched the Ray-Ban Tech line. The collection is completely innovative and this is a fact, because the models are produced with mineral or polycarbonate lenses and the presence of a polarizing filter. Filters take care of your eyes, protecting them from ultraviolet radiation and sun glare!

After reading this article, you can boast of your knowledge about the history of the origin of style with the Ray-Ban company.

Ray Ban is a brand of sunglasses and frames created by the American company Bausch & Lomb, currently owned by the Italian company Luxottica Group.

This is perhaps the brand that has been in demand and relevant throughout its existence. There is an excellent one on Wikipedia, but it is very long; to save your time, I offer its light version.

The birth of the Ray-Ban brand

Having appeared in 1937, throughout its history the Ray-Ban brand has maintained a leading position in the sunglasses market. This is practically the only “optical” brand that has become a well-known trade brand at the global level. Created by Bausch & Lomb specialists for American military pilots, tested on the ground and in the air, it conquered Hollywood.

These days, the brand has received a rebirth thanks to the company “Luxottica”, the world leader in optics. The acquisition of all rights to the production and sale of Ray-Ban sunglasses in the late 90s of the last century became a new stage in the development of the brand and a serious success for Luxottica. The production of glasses was transferred to Italy - a country for which the production of sunglasses has become one of the significant factors of economic development.

Cooperation with filmmakers occupies a special place in the life of the Ray-Ban brand. The list of films in which Ray-Ban sunglasses were used is huge. Most of the world's celebrities love the Ray-Ban brand.

History of glasses for pilots (drop glasses, Ray-Ban Aviator)

Ray-Ban in the early 90s

In the 90s, with the advent of the era of globalization and the rapid development of the Internet, new styles of clothing appeared and the boundaries between the old ones gradually blurred. Fashion offers more and more new trends and directions. Ray-Ban is expanding its range and developing new designs so that everyone can choose glasses to suit their style.

The brand divides its products into three segments: classic - sunglasses that have gone down in history, modern and new with cutting-edge lines.

At the same time, Ray-Ban is focusing on great attention creating lenses with increased UV protection.

Ray-Ban these days

Unlike the United States, Ray-Ban only became more popular in Europe when the Italian company Luxottica Group acquired the rights to the Ray-Ban trademark. Luxottica has remained true to the traditions of Ray-Ban and has fully preserved the technology for producing glass lenses.

Constantly expanding the model range, Italian company breathed new life into the Ray-Ban brand. In addition to the production of legendary classic models, Luxottica began to invent a number of new directions, expanding the sunglasses market with its high-quality new products in a variety of styles. One of the successful trends is the Ray-Ban Tech collection of sunglasses, which combines innovation and the history of the Ray-Ban brand.

Ray-Ban glasses are considered one of the best for a reason - they embody the most Hi-tech optics for eye protection, safety and wearing comfort. Considering their relatively low cost compared to glasses from famous fashion houses, Reibens have no equal in terms of price/quality ratio.

In this article we will talk about the technologies that are used to create Ray-Ban frames and sunglasses.

RAY-BAN LENSES

General characteristics of Ray-Ban lenses

The Ray-Ban brand was originally an optical brand, not a fashion brand. Therefore, throughout the entire existence of Ray-Ban, great attention has been paid to optical technology, and not just to modern trends.

All Ray-Ban lenses are 100% harmful blue part spectrum, and UVA/UVB rays.

Lenses Ray-Bans are ground and polished with diamond tools - this treatment guarantees no defects and distortions in the perception of objects.

To control strength and durability, various tests:

1) Ball test — glass lenses Ray-Ban 2 times stronger other lenses due to special chemical treatment. To test their shockproof properties, a steel ball with a diameter of 16 mm is dropped onto them from a height of 1.27 meters.

2) Bayer test- the lens is placed in a container of abrasive sand, after which 600 rotational cycles are launched: the lenses are 12 times less sensitive to scratches compared to conventional lenses made of CR-39 polymer.

3) Test for weather resistance— Ray-Ban lenses are exposed to sequential exposure to different external factors, the test results confirm the absence of any changes in the color and structure of the glass. Lenses are not damaged by ultraviolet radiation, heat, moisture, organic substances and sea salt.

G-15 XLT Lenses

These are iconic lenses that were developed in the early days of the Ray-Ban brand for US aviation. The lenses are grey-green, the darkest in the Ray Ban collection. They cut off 85% of visible daylight, completely block UV and infrared radiation, and most harmful blue light. At the same time, they do not distort colors and make the perception of surrounding objects clear and contrasting. Lenses provide " natural vision", that is, wearing glasses you almost feel like you are without glasses. G-15 XLT lenses are made of high-strength optical glass that is resistant to scratches and other damage. In addition, the glass does not fade or fade over time.

B-15 XLT lenses

Another iconic Ray-Ban lens. They have almost the same “technical” properties as G-15, but have Brown color And better suited for low light conditions. Absorbs 85% of light, provides 100% UV protection and almost completely blocks blue light. Provide a realistic picture without distorting colors.

Gradient lenses

The word “gradient” itself means a transition - from one color to another or from a dark shade to a light one. Gradient lenses are good because they block bright light. sunlight entering the eyes through top part lenses, and at eye level and below allow you to clearly see objects. They are comfortable on a cloudy day and indoors, suitable for wearing all year round. And they just look very beautiful, adding mystery to the look. Ray-Ban gradient lenses are made from glass or plastic. The thinnest oxide layers of paint are applied to glass using vacuum technology. On plastic lenses, the transition of tones is ensured by immersion in a special chemical solution. In the current Ray-Ban collections you can find glasses with a classic gray and brown gradient, as well as trendy two-tone models with pink-gray lenses and other shades of lenses.

Our website offers a wide selection of gradient glasses.

PHOTOCHROMIC LENSES

MIRROR LENSES

To create a mirror coating, hot metal oxides are applied to lenses made of plastic or glass, which are fixed to the surface at the molecular level. Lenses coated with this coating block the glare of the sun and cut out uncomfortable bright light. The mirror coating can be dense and completely hide the eyes, or it can be light and create only slight glare. Ray-Ban uses this technology to produce silver, gold and colored mirrored glasses, as well as innovative models with multi-colored “mirrors”. In the fall-winter 2016 season, a new product appeared - “ray-Ban rainbow aviators”, or Aviator Rainbow, with iridescent multi-color mirror lenses.

RAY-BAN POLARIZED LENSES

Polarized lenses block reflected (polarized) light from the surface of water, snow, wet objects, etc. By cutting off such glare, the clarity of vision and the contrast of the “picture” are increased, while the strain on the eyes is minimized. Polarized lenses are identified by a P icon next to the Ray-Ban logo on the lens. Ray-Ban offers three types of polarized lenses:

P for eye comfort;

P3 with hydrophobic and oleophobic coating, which increases the service life and ease of cleaning the glasses;

P3 Plus for greater color saturation and contrast.

You can buy polarized glasses through the catalog.

Effect of polarized lenses:

INNOVATIONS IN RAY-BAN FRAMES

Ray-Ban is an innovator when it comes to quality. This applies not only to lenses, but also to frames. Let's look at the main technologies used to produce Ray-Ban frames.

Carbon Fiber (carbon frames)

The Ray-Ban collection includes both sunglasses with carbon temples and Ray Ben carbon vision frames. The Carbon Fiber temples are made from seven layers of carbon plastic and are the thinnest in the Ray-Ban collection, but are very durable. Carbon is 2 times lighter than aluminum and 5 times lighter than iron! D Long-lasting Monoblock hinges are not soldered to the front of the frame and therefore provide longer service life. For a comfortable fit, Ray-Ban Carbon Fiber glasses are equipped with ultra-soft rubber pads on the tips of the temples.

Light Ray

Light ray - unique Ray-Ban frames with hinge inserts without solders or screws. They are made of ultra-light titanium, weighing less than 2 grams! These frames are ultra-light, durable, absolutely comfortable, and are used for classic-style corrective glasses and rimless models.

Titanium

Titanium is the lightest, strongest and most biocompatible material that can be used for premium frames. It is suitable even for people with skin prone to irritation. Titanium frames are resistant to corrosion and are highly elastic. This feature, combined with minimal weight, makes this type of glasses impeccable in terms of comfort.

Memo Ray

Memo Ray frames are made from special alloy metal, which has incredible flexibility and can restore its original shape after twisting or bending. These high-tech, slim Ray-Ban frames use a nickel-titanium alloy that is as strong as steel. These glasses are incredibly lightweight and corrosion resistant.

› The history of the legendary Ray-Ban brand

The history of the legendary Ray-Ban brand

It originates in the late twenties of the last century. The aviation industry was developing rapidly. In 1927, pilot Lindenberg made the first flight across Atlantic Ocean on the monoplane "The Spirit of St. Louis". Developed countries actively invested in the development of military aviation. Commercial airlines opened and soon the skies were filled with winged cars.

But there were problems behind the clouds. One of the most serious problems was glare - a bright glare that blinds the eyes of pilots. It was so painful that American Army pilots experienced nausea and headaches.

Baush & Lomb – Anti-Glare – Ray-Ban

In 1929, Lieutenant John McCready of the United States Air Force asked Bausch & Lomb to develop goggles that would prevent glare from the eyes so that the pilot could see his surroundings clearly. The company's scientists accepted the challenge and began researching light effects and the effects of strong light sources on vision.

The company, which was already a leader in the field of optics, managed to develop glass optical lens, capable of blocking a significant portion of visible light while maintaining the ability to see clearly. The result was glasses with green reflective lenses that blocked ultraviolet and infrared rays and provided high clarity of vision. These green lenses are called Anti-Glare.

US Air Force pilots finally have protective glasses that can not only protect them from blinding glare, but also serve as a barrier to infrared and ultraviolet radiation.

In 1936, Baush & Lomb introduced potential consumers to the first model of sunglasses intended for mass production, called “Anti-Glare”. They had plastic frames and cost US$3.75 a pair - 15 times more expensive than other sunglasses then on the market. In 1937, Bausch & Lomb organized its own research into the possibilities of widespread marketing of its product.

The first step towards gaining popularity was changing the name from “Anti-Glare” to “Ray-Ban”. This tradename was registered with the Patent Office and trade names USA in 1937. Two months later, advertisements for Ray-Ban(R) sunglasses appeared in newspapers and magazines.

The second step was the release of large Large Metal sunglasses - they resembled those worn by aviators. The Large Metal model for professional pilots has remained in service for seventy years, enjoying the constant trust of aviators of all ranks.

In the early forties, the company devoted a significant part of its production and research resources to defense needs. But one of the developments found application in the sunglasses market - these were lenses with a gradient mirror coating.

Large Metal glasses with a gradient mirror coating first went on sale in 1948. Today this technology is used in the Ray-Ban Driving Glass B-15 TGM(TM).

In 1952, there was a real revolution in the history of the development of sunglasses: the Baush & Lomb company developed neutral lenses with a significant light absorption coefficient that could find wide application. These new gray-tinted lenses, which transmitted 15% of visible light, were named Ray-Ban G-15(R). To this day, they remain the most popular.

In the post-war 50s, when the fame and influence of Hollywood began to become global, and the Vietnam syndrome with its anti-militaristic spirit was still being mastered by the French, the famous Wayfarer model appeared, which marked the beginning of Ray-Ban's worldwide fame. The model gained popularity outside the narrow professional circle of pilots, finding many fans among Hollywood movie stars.

Nowadays, Ray-Ban glasses have become a model of quality and fashionable design while maintaining their own unique style and traditions. The quality control of glasses can perhaps compete with any modern Italian brand. It is not for nothing that the eyewear giant Italian concern Luxottica Group is now producing Ray-Ban glasses. Every year, more than 8 million people around the world prefer glasses under the evergreen Ray-Ban brand.

Significant events in the history of Ray-Ban

Sunglasses Ray-Bans were the first to be created for the US military in 1929. These new type of glasses were able to protect pilots' eyes from bright light at high altitudes and at the same time provide good visibility and correct color rendition.

1936: Ray-Ban sunglasses, then known as “anti-glare” sunglasses, are introduced to the general public. The first model is a plastic frame with an “aviation” shape.

1937: The Ray-Ban trademark is registered and appears in advertisements for the first time.

1952: Wayfarer style glasses introduced. With simple, clean lines and comfort, Wayfarer glasses are an instant classic.

1961: Having become a market leader, Ray-Ban begins a long partnership with Hollywood, securing exposure in the film Breakfast at Tiffany's, in which Audrey Hepburn appears wearing Wayfarer glasses.

1960s: Olympian I and II series and Balorama are released.

1980: First release of the Wings family. The brand's revolutionary new style: a unisex model that combines the comfort of the Aviator with a pioneering single lens, giving glasses a futuristic look that remains fashionable to this day.

1999: Luxottica Group acquires the Ray-Ban brand.

2003: The first extension of the line is the release of the Ophthalmic and Junior collections.

2004: Launch of the Junior Ophthalmic collection.

The latest technical innovations from Ray-Ban

Ray-Ban RB-50™ lenses represent the latest development in mirror photochromic lens technology. IN normal conditions their light absorption capacity is 80-90%. IN extreme conditions- at low temperatures and significant intensity of blinding light - light absorption reaches 92%.

Ray-Ban RB-50 Ultra lenses that were discovered new era, protected from blinding light. They provide almost complete protection from polarized concentrated light - luminous spots of light reflected from the surface of snow or water.

RB-50 Ultra glass combines the advantages of RB-50 glass with the ability to absorb polarized light. The absorption of polarized light is incredible - up to 99.97%. The future of Ray-Ban lenses will continue the history of technological advances, continued improvements in quality and timeless style, ensuring that they will continue to be a world leader.

The world's best sunglasses

None of the other sunglasses manufacturers can say this. Ray-Ban can make this claim based on its leadership in technology, superior product quality, and dedication to general idea and the talent of its employees.

The Ray-Ban brand has deservedly become famous throughout the world due to its excellent optical properties, quality and unchanging style. It is one of those names that connotes superior quality and unparalleled efficiency, forged through half a century of relentless pursuit of technological leadership.

That's why Bausch & Lomb began its journey of setting and exceeding the highest standards. She continues to do so today, laying more and more bricks into the edifice of Ray-Ban sunglasses success.

Impeccable performance, innovative design and time-tested technology - that's what Ray-Ban glasses are all about. The history of this trademark is interesting and dates back to 1920. Read more about this brand further in the article.

History of Ray-Ban: Aviator glasses

It’s hard to believe, but the rapid prosperity of American aviation was facilitated by the appearance of Ray-Ban Aviator glasses :) The fact is that at the beginning of the last century, pilots needed reliable protection eyes during flights high altitude. And the prototypes of protective masks made of leather and plastic that they used did not give the desired effect.

Once in 1920, the famous test pilot Rudolf Schröder tried to break the record for rising to a height of 10 km. Having reached this point, he encountered difficulties: his mask glasses fogged up, which is why he had to take them off. Almost blindly, with frozen eyes, he heroically landed the plane and survived. This was followed by similar cases, in which the pilots were on the verge of death. So the question arose about creating special glasses for flights.

In 1929, Bausch & Lomb received a special order from the US Air Force to develop comfortable and durable glasses. The prototype of such an accessory was published in 1937 under the name Anti-Glare and was several times more expensive than other models of that time. A year later it was improved and patented under the name Ray-Ban Aviator. Almost immediately, glasses of this shape gained popularity among pilots, allowing them to rise to great heights without being afraid of bright light. This accessory was especially loved by General Douglas MacArthur, who wore it almost everywhere - at work and at home. Later, other people not related to the US Air Force became interested in Aviators with green and yellow lenses. Thus began the mass production of glasses.

Ray-Ban Wayfarer

In the post-war decade, thanks to the rapid development of the economy and the desire to live in a new way, new trends in music and fashion emerged. Rock and roll was born, clothes and accessories were filled with bright colors, various currents. In the wake of this cultural explosion, in 1952 Bausch & Lomb engineer Raymond Stijman developed a frame that contrasted sharply with the militarized Aviators. Trapezoidal glasses were bought by everyone who wanted to stand out and show their “I”. And Hollywood cinema of the 50s and 60s actively influenced the consciousness and style of people. James Dean first wore these glasses in the film Rebel Without a Cause, and later Audrey Hepburn wore them during the filming of Breakfast at Tiffany's.

In the 80s, the popularity of the Ray-Ban brand waned. New leaders appeared on the market - Oakley, Bolle, who produced glasses that kept up with the times and fashion - sports models with narrowed frames. It was difficult to withstand such competition, so in 1999 Bausch & Lomb sold the brand to the Italian factory Luxottica, which began a new round of its development in Europe, as production from America moved to Italy. This step made it possible to reduce the cost of products and expand the circle of buyers on other continents. And high technologies for the manufacture of lenses and frames, the development of creative limited collections, and a new look at classic design have won the hearts of millions of fashionistas and fashionistas. The brand's line is not limited to Aviator and Wayfarer frames. The shapes and have also become popular.

Worldwide fame

Ray-Ban glasses are a favorite of many celebrities. They often star the main characters of films of various genres - from thrillers to comedies. For example, at one time they were worn by Arnold Schwarzenegger, Michael Jackson, Andy Warhol, spouses John and Jacqueline Kennedy, Victoria and David Beckham, Mark Zuckerberg, Kate Middleton, Julia Roberts and other celebrities.

The history of Ray-Ban shows that the brand is one of the most influential and best-selling labels in the global fashion industry. Having gone through a thorny path, it turned from highly specialized optics into a beloved classic that takes pride of place in the collection of every fashionista.

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