Persol 714 and 649
The Persol 714 folding sunglasses could very well be the most classic and valued Persol ever made. These sunglasses were made famous by the legendary Steve Mcqueen who wore them in the famous movie "Thomas Crown Affair" and off screen as well.
A few decades ago, Persol stopped making the 714 model but went ahead and decided to bring it back and re-release the model due to popular demand. This model is a definite head turner due to its classic, retro, and timeless styling.
The 714 is made with custom tinted blue lenses. These lenses are crafted by taking high quality French optical lenses manufactured by a company called Essilor, then they are edged and custom tinted to the perfect shade of cool blue. These are incredibly thin and light, gradient lenses that are made from high quality crystal for the clearest possible vision. They also contain an anti-reflective layer to reduce glare.
There is a folding system at the back and ends of the temple arms, making them nice and compact. A functional element of the 714 is Persol's distinctive mark, the Supreme Arrow, which encloses the hinges, and is mounted both on the temple arm and the front of the frame allowing them to fold. The Steven McQueen signature is etched on the inside of the temple arm as well as on the elegant leather case.
Below is a list of colors and key features.
Colors
Tortoise - Blue Lenses
Black - G15
Tortoise - G15
Key Features
Folding Frame
Available in polarized (has extra filter which blocks reflective glare) or non polarized lenses
100% UV protection
Hand made in Italy
Along with the 714 the company also makes a popular model which is very similar known as the 649. The 649 style looks very similar to the 714 with one major difference. They have no hinges meaning they don't fold up. Created in 1957, the 649 became an instant legend when Marcello Mastroianni wore them in the Pietro Germi film "Divorce Italian style". This is truly a classic. The 649 provides retro, timeless styling, distinct from the look alike sunglasses of today. Below you will find a list of colors and key features for the 649.
Colors
Tortoise - G15
Tortoise - Brown Polarized
Light Tortoise - Orange Gradient
Honey Tortoise - Brown
Black - G15 Polarized
Havana - Brown
Black - G15
Key Features
Looks great on both men and women alike.
Comes in polarized or non polarized lenses
Made in Italy
Both the 714 and 649 are stylish, elegant, and unique. They are not only great pairs of sunglasses but also symbolize a rich tradition of excellence. Whether you are a big screen actor or an everyday person, these two models are sure to provide you with the highest quality possible. With such a wide and beautiful range of colors you are sure to find one, or two pairs that best suits you.