Persol Sunglasses: Is It Worth It? - Steve McQueen Sunglasses Review
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- Опубліковано 27 лис 2024
- Persol Sunglasses: YAY or NAY? gentl.mn/is-it...
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Sunglasses worn by yours truly:
Steve McQueen - www.persol.com...
714 - www.persol.com...
649 - www.persol.com...
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It was started in 191 by Guiseppe Ratti as a luxury sunglass brand focusing on athletes and aviators. In the 1930, Persol was responsible for a leap forward in the sunglass world by introducing what they call the Maflecto System. Basically, it is a flexible metal item inside the temple that is constructed in a way so it is flexible and it adjusts more to your head shape so you do not have pressure points that are uncomfortable.
In 1957, Persol created the model 649. It was designed for tram drivers in Milan. The idea was that the large frame protected them from light and dust. Looking back, the model 64 clearly marked the beginning of Persol as a fashion sunglass brand even though at the time, they did not see themselves as that. I mean, just look at those sunglasses, don't they want to make you be a tram driver in Milan?
A little later in the 60s, model 714 was introduced to the market which had a novelty in the sense that it could be folded. Apart from minor changes, it is basically the model 649 that can be folded. Persol sunglasses debuted in the US in 1962. By 1968, Steve McQueen famously wore them in the movie "Thomas Crown Affair". The model was the caramel brown acetate with the light blue lenses which I have here right now, as well. This appearance really put Persol on the map and the 741 style became synonymous with the brand Persol which is why we are reviewing that specific model and not all the others that they offer today.
So why are Persol sunglasses still so famous? Basically, it comes down to star power. Apart from Steve McQueen in the 60s and 70s, Jay-Z, Pierce Brosnan, and Ryan Gosling are all big fans of Persol sunglasses these days.
Overall, they are worn by the public no matter young or old and it is truly one of those items that have not gone out of style in the last 50 or 60 years. No matter if you like the classic 649 style or the foldable 714, the designs have not changed much since the 1960s and it is just a popular sunglass choice with all kinds of people.
So of all those styles, they are so similar, why are reviewing three different pairs of sunglasses? Well, first of all, the 649 is the least expensive version, it is the entry version, it is the oldest version and it is not collapsible. Also, if you compare the three frames, it is a little more straight in the front and less angled than the 714 and the Steve McQueen. Otherwise, in terms of shape and height, they are pretty much the same. The entry price of the 649 is $260 and you have to add $50 for polarized lenses. If you want to go with the 714, you have to add $60 to that so basically, the price is $320 and $370 for polarized lenses. If you want the original Steve McQueen model, you have to shell out $480. To make the 714 collapsible, you have a hinge in the middle and you can bend down the temples of the sunglasses. Now, the Steve McQueen one is slightly different in the sense that you fold the temples towards the sunglass lenses. Also, if you look at the temples, the 714 and the 649 have that arrow design that points away from the frame versus the Steve McQueen pair of sunglasses have a total of three arrows that go to, backwards, and one forward. Actually, that's a really small detail on the Steve McQueen sunglasses so unless you like the color combinations of the Steve McQueen models and dislike the others, I do not think it is worth the extra mark up.
Now that brings us to the main question, is it worth it?
Watch the video to find out the VERDICT!
It seems like Nordstrom Rack is currently offering a bunch of Persol sunglasses including a 52mm 649 and two options of the 714 for just $99.97. This is NOT sponsored, just thought some of you might like that. www.nordstromrack.com/brands/Persol
Gentleman's Gazette this is actually a great deal. Thanks! Great content as always
@@nickentros Seems like they sold out quickly of the 714...
I managed to snag a 714 on there. There are legitimate. They pass all the "tests".
I'm a Veteran with TBI, which has left me with an intractable migraine. As a result I have to wear sunglasses all the time so I have a pretty large collection of them. While I have Oakley, Ray Ban, Oliver Peoples, Vuarnet, and Persol sunglasses. My wife's favorites are my Persol 714 frames and as you might have guessed she's a Steve McQueen fan. I like the 2 different pairs of Persol sunglasses I have, they're iconic and very comfortable to wear. So, I definitely think they're worth it. Ultimately wearing quality sunglasses of any brand are worth it as they protect your eyes better than any inexpensive sunglasses which likely won't have the same quality as the better brands.
@@nickentros😮
This is why I appreciate this creator. He talks about subjects that I would have no idea about and delivers it professionally.
Thank you!
My bank account: Bro you’re in college don’t do it
I feel you brother
Get part time job at sunglass hut. Get them free
Nice thinking. Get the degree, the job, and then go for it!
You still DO IT.
I know...I know
i will buy these one day and also james bond Tom Ford Marko FT0144 a lot better than boring rayban all people use it lol
You should make a series out of what should you buy from certain brands, like you did with Ralph Lauren
All we'll say for now is: stay tuned! ;)
- Preston
@@gentlemansgazette brooks brothers please!
Today on "things you didnt know you needed":
Persol Sunglasses
Yep. This sun of a gun just sold me a pair of Persol.
I own the 649s. Best pair Of sunglasses I ever bought. Blows ray bans out the window.
Aren't they exactly the same, considering what Luxottica does with their subsidiaries?
Raybans are shit.
For 50-100€ more you can get handmade acetate sunglasses which have way better build quality.
I recommend Moscot glasses- Las forever
Clorox Bleach The frames, maybe. The extra flexible metal tan makes all the difference though
@@filipcolovic1283 Probably negligible differences, but saying things like "blows X out of the water" is trendy on the internet, and makes the owner of said item feel better lol.
@@raupenimmersatt6906 acetate is not a luxury material, just hypoallergenic. Even a pair of Hawkers use acetate for some of their models 😅.
The difference here is how delicate is this acetate, because there's a standard that is the same for all brands that want to sell sunglasses in Europe 😂.
The hand made acetate is not exclusive because all italian houses which works on making frames, have to work with the same process to get the same finish 🤷🏻.
Persol works with cotton acetate, that gives a better sensation, but you don't notice it at all 🤔.
Until I know Meflecto system is patented, so that's why there is no other brand that can use this system.
I got two pairs of Persol 714 and both of them f*ck their nose bridge folding system. Folding sunglasses that aren't made to fold them 🙄.
Definitely, you can buy things better with the same money.
Persol are great quality sunglasses. It is the brand for me. Thank you for the video
That cheesy grin when he says 'Let me take of my sunglasses', Bloody perfect!
The look of sunglasses depends heavily on the shape of the face. For this reason, it’s a bad idea to buy sunglasses just because someone else wore them.
I would never buy sunglasses online if you’re not familiar with the brand/fit. Same goes for clothes. So many people do and they wonder why they don’t look like James Bond or whichever other iconic figure. Motto: it’s all about the fit!
You know what though? You can get away with sunglasses for the most part (within reason) that look bad on you. If you think about it it's worse if you have eyeglasses that look bad on you..a lot worse. Something about seeing the eyes with bad glasses that looks a million times worse. When the eyes are covered you can get away with a lot more. I don't worry so much about sunglasses not looking right on me. With eye glasses though I'm really picky.
@@basmus5216 I learned many years ago about shopping online. I don't buy clothes online at all. I buy Ray Bans lol but most things I do not buy online. And I used to wanna buy everything online.
Absolutely. And they don't fit at all on this guy's face.
No. It’s a good idea to buy sunglasses if you want them. Regardless of your opinion or anyone else
Steve McQueen, James Bond and Hank Moody wear them. All the proof I need.
Plus cary grant!
I bought mine for 50% off a few weeks ago... best pair of sunglasses that I own 😎
Where from
@@toes1965 The Rake has a sale
I have a matte black pair of Persols which I've bought from San Francisco in 2017. They look real slick and I couldn't be happier wearing them. I've never gotten this "fits perfectly" feeling when putting on another pair of sunglasses or any glasses for that matter. I think it might be the system you mentioned, with the flexible metal hinge, which I had no idea was so exclusive to them, before you mentioned. Now I'm considering getting a pair of these too, so that I have a brown one as well. They are well worth their money yes.
which model did you get?
I work at sunglass hut and I personally work with them all the time. Persol is one of my personal favorite brand of eyewear and they’re made with a lot of quality. They’re hand made in Italy by the same fifteen people and the only brand I would personally pay up to $300 for a pair of glasses.
The same 15 people? Like they only have 15 technicians building glasses?
Working in Optics, i only wear Persol sunglasses and their optical frames. Best you can get, without going bespoke!
What about serengeti?
Well me personally I like the French Vuarnet sunglasses.
Randolph Engineering?
What about Maui Jim’s and costa 580G glass, wouldn’t these be better, more optically correct than Persol?
Persols are ok. But u don’t know real high end glasses. Hate to break it to u Mr optical
I’ve said it before on your channel “I love these is it worth it video’s” you do them so well please keep them coming!
Recently purchased some 3225s to go along with my 714s. Both are fantastic.
persol's maflecto archs are the best comfortable frame in the business, - i have 649 and 714 collection with variety colours
A good pair of sunglasses, properly maintained and care for, can last decades. I bought a pair of Cartier sunglasses over 25 years ago, and I still use them today. When not in used, keep them in a case. By the way, I have a box of cases for various prescription and sunglasses. Cases wear out. When they do, replace them and get going again. The bottom line is a good pair of sun or prescription glasses are a great investment if the above are observed. Always buy the best or what you like and stay with it.
I've owned a pair of 714's for many years. Bought them for £20 in the early days of ebay. They've been around the world with me. And they've featured in many many memorable photos. A few months ago, I accidentally cracked one of the glass lenses! The cost of replacing with identical lenses costs close to a new complete pair. So I've decided to wear them as they are!
Amazing video mate. Great insight, Spot on 🎉😊
I discovered Persols not because of McQueen but because of Marcello Mastroianni. It would be so beautiful to have a video of yours on the style of these two icons.
Anyway, I've been owning a pair of Persols since february. They took the shape of my face with time and they feel really comfortable even with hot weather: they don't slip off the nose and the lens always stay clear with a little maintenance.
My collection of sunglasses includes Versace, Tom Ford, Gucci, Ralph Laurent, ray bans and of course Persol. And without a doubt Persol‘s fit and look is the best. Just classic.
jose pantojas Nice glasses! Buy a Serengetri and your collection is Completed
This is a great series of videos! You take classic products and thoroughly review them. Please make more of these!
They are unique. I first noticed them thanks to the late Anthony Bourdain. That being said, I think Dita is a better brand if you have the money to spend.
I purchased a pair of persol glasses a couple years ago prescription I didn't know the history behind the the glasses but I have enjoyed the fit and the comfort I have a pair of faux tortoise shell keep up the good work thank you for all you do
Nooo this was my secret fashion weapon. don't give it away lolololol
I absolutely love my pair of 714s. I don't mind folding them up at all, the case fits in your pocket and the style goes well with just about any outfit. One thing I'm not so keen on is, their somewhat heavy frame leaves lingering marks on my face where they sit on the nose. When making my purchase I considered the Steve McQueen model, but likewise could not see what made them worth so much more money. I feel the right pair of 714s more than does the job if you want to be 'the king of cool' :)
Sven I don't know about the US, but here in France you can often pick second hand Persol glasses for 10 or 15€. Really worth it if you want to make a new prescription pair and don't want to be squeezed for all your worth over anything else than the actual glass.
The best Persol model ever is the 69218. Such a beautiful shape with the best dimensions. I always have strangers shouting out to me complimenting my sunnies on the streets when I wear them. I own more than thirty vintage Persol Rattis and the 649 and 714s do not suit everyone - but I think the 69218 makes everybody look hot!
great review and great timing as looking at buying a pair this week and came across this while trying to see which ones to go for. Love all your videos .Also like the fact you give out a little more background and rationale for different models.Keep them coming, always find them fascinating and interesting.
Thank you!
Regarding 714s and hinge mechanism, I have same like in video (not Stive McQueen one) and I fold them all the way every time i take them off my head for longer period of time and store them in case. If you pay that much money for them, you should take care of them! As fore hinge mechanism, the screws tend to lose up and mechanism start to feel lose, but if I don’t wear them for one or two days they some how get sturdy again and there is no need to tighten them up. For almost a year I have them I can say that it’s a best option for eyewear and they worth every penny! Only thing i dislike is that when I get sweaty face, they tend to glide of to bottom of my nose, but quick wipe of the face with a paper tissue solve that problem easily!
I found out about persol when I watched Lord of war. I needed to know what shades Nicholas Cage was rocking.
slyphsoldier I think those are model 2803s
Thanks for sharing this Raphael , I have the 714 on my wish list since i remember myself , one day I'll make it come true...
Persol has some pretty bad QC issues. I went through two PO3135s and they both had issues. The arms were misaligned, the metal arrow was ill fitting, and you had to fold one arm over the the other or else it wouldn't fold flat. Meflecto is a neat idea and works pretty well, but for me they kept the glasses from bracing my head, and felt loose. I sold them and went with a pair of Maui Jim Tail Slides which are far and away the best sunglasses I've ever owned.
I already own two pairs and I must say they are the best sun glasses I ever had regarding to the value for the money you pay!
Persol are great, better than other sunglases brands, I really like the finish , the meflecto system and that timeless design, they’re a cut above other brands
Sorry to tell you this, but they are exactly the same as RayBans. (or everother cheap company)
Luxottica bought them and turned the company to crap. Unless you have pre Luxottica era persols you're wrong.
@@filipcolovic1283 Sorry to tell you but you're wrong. Persol is owned by Luxxotica but they didn't integrate Persol into their production facilities. Persol still produces in their own facility in Italy. A few models are being produced in Japan. I don't know how Persols quality level was before they have been bought but today they are way above RB. It's not even a comparison.
I gotta be honest, I just watch these videos because his voice is so calming
Thank you for the great video and information. Big fan of your style guides.
Of all the people I've seen wearing Persol sunglasses, you look the best with any of these models, Sven!
But you you seen my video? 😅
As stated in the Luxottica website, the 649 was created for tram drivers in Turin, not Milan.
I only own Persol glasses! They are soo worth the price they're polarized lenses are fantastic. Dudes out here spillin the sauce though, people gonna start hyping these as much as Ray Ban! The folding ones are gimickey though, been holding out for a while but I will probably snag a McQueen pair one day just cause he's a style icon to me!
2:28
"Yeah, so what do you do in your spare time?"
"Oh, me? I wear sunglasses"
I love these “is it worth it” videos keep up the good work 👍
I finally bought a pair of black 3129s Persols. They’re not what I’m wearing in my avatar image but I’m in love with them. The quality is amazing.
I have the 714's and they're awesome. Lenses are great, but still don't beat my Maui Jim's in terms of lens polarization.
Just bought my 4th pair of Persol, the 714. I’m a big fan of Persol fit and quality.
Could not disagree more on the folding aspect of the 714s these are perfect for work sunglasses, where they fit in a suit or jacket pocket or can be foldaway into a laptop bag . They have that adult business chic look . Perfect for going out for lunch from work whereby you can fold them away while in doors eating /shopping
I'm a Serengeti guy myself, only the photochromic, polarized, shatter-resistant boro-silicate lenses are good enough to cover my steely blue eyes ; )
Same here, serengeti all they way. Nothing of that shit Luxottica. Just wish they had more recognition
I literally just started for sunglasses the past couple of weeks, never been a wearer before, and started looking at Persol as they caught my eye, and Steve McQueen connection etc. Crazy coincidence, you then go and make a video about Steve McQueen's Persols and it pops up in my subscriptions lol
It's nice to know you can get real glass lenses instead of that cheap plastic that scratches with anything that touches them good work Persol
Simply in love with the 714SM great review!! my courier should be on it way tomorrow
I have a pair of 714 and they have fallen to the ground without getting a scratch.
I'm not even that interested in fashion but still I try to follow some of your advices or just to get an inspiration. I would describe myself as normally clothed but you still helped me to find my own style. And I enjoy your videos in general,too. Because they are well made and you (and Preston I think is his name) are very sympathic people (sympathisch) .
No video on youtube on "How to buy quality sunglasses?"
Lets have one.
Yes, please!
Persol 649 and 714 are for small to medium heads only. My order of Persol 714 arrived today. I’d say it’s a work of art but too small to fit my large head. Buyer beware, Persol 714s are designed for small heads.
Lentes de sol Persol para cabezas grandes PO 3235S y para lentes oftalmológicos la PO 3160V
I love the regular 714(not the McQueenmodel)it was a gift from my wife, a little large for my face but i love it anyway. Best sunglasses i ever had, worth the money for me
I'm not a fan of sunglasses per se, but I'll admit that those Persol 714 ones do have a nice look to them.
When are we getting the "Crockett and Jones: Is It Worth It" series, Raphael?
C&J's are definitely worth it. I own the classic Marshall calf leather oxfords. Outstanding in every way.
mir gefallen die cary grant sonnenbrillen irgendwie trotzdem besser, kauf ich mir am besten einfach beide
I didn't know much about this brand. Definitely going to check them out now. Great video!
I got very lucky, for I won a pair of polarized Persol 649s (blue lenses and caramel colour acetate) in an auction for 105 euros (included the case, box, Luxottica note etc.).
Have had them for a while, but I have to say that already they're the best sunglasses I've owned so far.
Edit: the auction I got it from in Finland has its own TV-show (Suomen Huutokauppakeisari) and the glasses were in the last episode of season 12. Turned out they were the property of a Finnish radio host, Kimmo Vehviläinen. Awesome!!
Somehow the 649 is like 120 in the Netherlands
Thank you,I have always wanted to know the history of this brand.
one might mention that the name Persol is derived from the Italian "per solare" = for the sun. So instead of pronouncing the name like 'Purcell', perhaps 'Pear Soul", with no syllable stressed, would be better.
You can get the 649 for $180 online with polarized lens but hose are black in color.
I always enjoy your videos thank you
I think doing a guide to buying garments OTR. Many men cant afford the cost of bespoke, so a guide on how to buy jackets, shirts, etc. Would be excellent!
Worth it. If I divide the cost by the number of times I've worn them, it's around a dollar per wear.
Wonderfully polished and groomed man! I am sure he knows that but I just had to say!
Thank you! Excellent video and informative. i am a fan of Persol and I Have a couple pairs. I have been considering the 714's for quite a while. i will eventually pull the trigger. But i do want a light brown acetate and blue lens. and If the steve Mcqueen is a good deal, thatsa consideration as well. Keep up the excellent content.
Hey Sven, are you ever going to do more on that style breakdown series? Ps great video keep up the great content.
Wonderful review! Thank you! Should have mentioned Mastroianni in La Dolce Vita, as well. ;)
Is it worth it, schott perfecto 118
I have the one in black and its fabulous. My fav pair for sure.
well I got some for Christmas and they are the best sunglasses I've ever had
This video didn't really make me want to buy persol sunglasses, but at least it gives me an outfit idea with the harrington jacket
The point of this series is not to make you buy anything but to help you determine if it is worth your money or not. This is u sponsored, so we have 0 interest in you buying these
Biggest problem with these fold up ones is the weight.. they are so uncomfortable to wear
Nope.
I use sunglasses. I don't pay more than ~$20usd. I don't wear them as a fashion statement. I wear them for many reasons but fashion is not on the list. When you take this into consideration instead of trying to impress others what makes the most sense is polarized safety sunglasses. Most come with scratch resistant lenses. I recommend an amber hue as it does filter out blue light, the most likely to diffuse. Amber lenses reduce overall light without "dimming" vision. It also helps with mood. You can pay hundreds for something that impresses someone else or a few bucks for something that works.
Another great review. I noticed you had 2 different sizes of the 714...The 714 was a 54 and the 714 SM was 52. which did your unlike better?
I really am glad that I bagged a pair of 714s for 140€ a couple of years ago.👀 With polarized lenses😎
I legit just bought the 649’s hours before this video popped up in my feed. Glad my instinct was correct!
Pretty decent review but you left out what i consider to be a very crucial part. How durable are they? With careful use, how long do the elastic joints last?
Just picked up all black foldable 714 Persol sunglasses at Sunglasses Hut
I'm addicted on Persol 649/714 (have at least 4 pairs around) in your review I missed the 9649 model (that in my opinion deserves attention too) and I agree with your review and impression (you forgot Marcello Mastroianni wearing them too and the fact that MccQueen get those blue lens into the 714 as a personal addition) ....one day will be good doing a review how to restore them after time and check cos ...that's not more acetate cos it's... flammable, but something similar that's become dull with time......
Wow they really suit you !
Thanks Mr.Sven Raphael
you should do a video on AO original aviators, they where as the name implies the original designers back in the 1950s and they’re a high quality durable and functional set of military sunglasses and what I personally wear daily, and a favourite of Neil Armstrong, JFK, and seen in numerous movies
This series has become something I look forward too! Found and bought a British Green G9 for 50% off b/c of your last video. Please keep up the good work.
This is a great and informative video. Thank you
I have 3 pairs of persols including the Steve McQueens very cool sunglasses these paired with with my leather belstaff which has been reviewed also look great 😎👌
I love the Steve Mcqueens, however I cannot wear them for a long time. After around two hours playing 9 holes they don’t press against my head, but they are heavy on the top of my ear and are super uncomfortable. Sucks but I still wear them most days as I don’t need wear sunglasses for hours straight usually.
Here in Europe I bought the 649 in Verona for 120 Euros at an optician. Used Persol`s are around 50 to 90 Euros on eBay.
Right now on 5/13/20 these are 30% off at the Persol site ... just FYI
I'd probably buy/have Persols if not for my need of eyeglasses, aka prescription lenses. I don't know how to get Persols with prescription lenses where I live, might not even be possible. In any case. I wear Ray-Ban Clubmasters with dark brown tortoise shell, gold trimmings/bridge/details, and green hue/tint prescription lenses. Gentleman.
I have the 714s and am quite disappointed by the overall quality. On day one, while putting them inside the provided soft shell case, the lenses somehow got flattened (I did not sit on them) and became crooked and stayed that way because it happened throughout all the hinges. Took them to Sunglass Hut where they said it always happens with this model and attempted to manually revert back with no success. The hinges also get loose after a few folds and require constant tightening with a screwdriver. It's unfortunate that the quality is not good because the polarized lenses are incredible to look through and I really like the style. But I do not think I will be buying Persols again in the future due to this.
Nice video and contact, thanks. I've just lost my 714 sunglasses which I've had for years, they had been everywhere with me, talk about loved & lost, I'm Gutted! 714 Steve McQueen incoming, Havana with polarised lenses.
Sorry, CONTENT! What would we do without spell-checkers?
today i got my first Persol, i love it!
You should do wether the Ralph Lauren polo shirt is worth it
Of course it is. At any price.
This was the first sunglasses that was popular Ray Ban took it's style and ran with it
I am a big fan of persol, I have both 649 and 714
Is it worth it to get "Ratti Persols" (The ones made before being acquired by Luxxotica? I'm planning on buying a pair of 649s because my American Opticals let in too much sun from the sides and I hate how the gold colored metal reflects sun back into my face also. With a place that price matches, I could get some Luxxotica 649s for a little over $200 or either way retail is only about $260. On the other hand, really good condition Ratti 649s or NOS even seem to run from $300-450.
As far as I own, Persols are still handmade in Italy, but hearing from other people and also common sense tells me that they were better made before being acquired. Does anyone know specifically in what ways they are actually different and better? I have tried on the modern 649s and felt them and they certainly feel like a really solid product, but I've never seen older ones to compare
Look forward to watching the video right now. Great timing!
Brett I own a real vintage pair of 714 Ratti sunglasses. They are awesome
@@wot3ver Did you buy them because you thought they were better than the new ones or just buy them a long time ago and inherit them?
Have you ever compared them to new Luxxotica ones?
Brett Hi Brett, I own the new 714 and the original 714. The originals don’t even have Persol written on them at all. They have Ratti written on them. I love both but I bought the originals a few years ago now. Yes, they are very expensive. I’ve seen some go for $5000. The original ones to me just are more refined and do look better in my opinion. They have glass lenses instead of the plastic lenses you have on the new version. The lenses have a watermark on them, which is pretty cool as well. Many people complement me when I wear the Ratti ones.