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If you’re lucky, which in this case means you live in North America, Central America, the west coast of South America, or parts of East Asia or Australia, you’ll have witnessed a lunar eclipse in the early morning hours of March 3rd (a celestial event that, for some, is just a few). go (It is scheduled to take place later this evening). But if you were among those who missed out on the chance to see the blood-red moon, American Optical, the brand behind JFK’s most worn sunglasses, just handed out a consolation prize. In the form of the all-new Blood Moon Aviator, only 999 pairs are available for purchase online.
The most important thing to know is that these Sunnies, at least their OG models, have already been to the moon. Indeed, the Blood Moon style (which stands out from the crowd thanks to its deep wine-colored lenses) utilizes what American Optical calls its “most iconic frame,” a frame designed for the original pilots, the U.S. military pilots, and later issued to astronauts in the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs. Thanks to the Silhouette’s innovative bayonet temple, these space explorers didn’t have to take off their helmets to remove their shades. And you better believe that Made in the USA accessories meet the highest manufacturing standards for durability and comfort.
Now, moon-landing-tested sunglasses have entered a fresh and exciting era, honoring the total lunar eclipse that occurs every 18 months to three years. Blood moons have inspired awe and fear for centuries, so it’s only fitting that the American Optical’s most famous wearers (including those of the Camelot regime, but also Malcolm X, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Robert De Niro from Taxi Driver, and Neil Armstrong) have been both revered and feared throughout history.
Neil Armstrong wearing American Optical Original Pilot sunglasses in March 1969, months before landing on the moon.
Courtesy: Ralph Morse—Time & Life Photography/Getty Images
What can we expect from America’s oldest eyewear manufacturer’s latest development?Evoking the glow of the moon during an eclipse, special AOLite SunVogue nylon lenses are etched with minimalist moon illustrations. The black velvet frame of the matte armor represents the dark and mysterious sky above us. Included starry sky cleaning cloth. Gift boxes, sleeves and cases. And a certificate of authenticity to serve as a constant reminder that you’re wearing a piece of history. Any other reminders straight from the AO: “Don’t let anything hold you back” and “Explore your wildest dreams.” This time, even the sky isn’t the limit.

Limited edition original pilot sunglasses commemorating the Blood Moon. Last year, American Optical also launched a very popular product. blue moon stylesold out as quickly as a shooting star falling from the sky.
Provided by: American Optical
The original Pilot Blood Moon glasses are unisex and cost $265. Also, add the Kennedy-approved Saratoga to your cart.
(The former leader of the free world favored repeating the turtle pattern.)
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Only 999 pairs available
American Optical Original Pilot Blood Moon Sunglasses
Prices on the date of publication of this article: $265
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meet the author
Stacia Datskowska Senior Commerce Writer at WWD. Previously, she worked as an assistant digital editor at ELLE DECOR, covering all things luxury, culture, and lifestyle through the lens of design. Over the past five years, her byline has appeared in USA Today, the Baltimore Sun, Teen Vogue, the Boston Globe, Food & Wine, and more. Before joining ELLE DECOR, Datskovska learned the ins and outs of e-commerce at Mashable, where she tested products, covered tent pole sales, and curated gift guide roundups. She graduated from New York University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and international relations. Datskowska regularly reports on the release of limited edition accessories related to major cultural (and celestial!) events.
Source: Shop – wwd.com
