










AO Eyewear American Optical Original Pilot Gold Frame Sunglasses
Free Returns/Exchanges
Product Details
The sunglasses that flew to the moon. Now built for you.
Since 1958, American Optical has manufactured the Original Pilot to U.S. military specifications — the same sunglasses worn by NASA Apollo astronauts and issued to generations of U.S. Air Force pilots. Made in the USA. Built to last a lifetime.
Why Choose the AO Original Pilot Gold Frame?
- 100% UVA/UVB Protection — Full-spectrum UV blocking for long hours in the cockpit, on the water, or in the field.
- Anti-Reflective Backside Coating — Eliminates distracting glare from behind, so your vision stays sharp in any light.
- Smudge-Resistant Oleophobic Coating — Fingerprints wipe off cleanly. No streaks, no hassle.
- Impact & Scratch Resistant — Built to ANSI Z80.3 standards. Engineered to take a beating and keep performing.
- Timeless 23K Gold Finish — A classic that never goes out of style. Worn by pilots. Loved by everyone else.
Choosing Your Lenses: Glass vs. Nylon
Not sure which lens material to pick? Here's the short version:
| SkyMaster™ Glass | AOLite™ Nylon | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Maximum optical clarity | Active use, travel |
| Weight | Slightly heavier | Lighter on your face |
| Scratch resistance | Excellent | Good |
| Impact resistance | Good | Excellent |
| Price | +$35 | — |
Most pilots and everyday wearers prefer Glass for its unmatched optical clarity. Choose Nylon if you're active outdoors or want a lighter feel.
Polarized or Non-Polarized?
- Non-Polarized — Recommended for pilots. Polarized lenses can interfere with reading LCD cockpit instruments and make it harder to see other aircraft. If you fly, go non-polarized.
- Polarized — Ideal for driving, boating, fishing, or any activity where glare off water or roads is a factor.
Finding Your Size
| Size | Best For |
|---|---|
| 52mm | Smaller or narrower faces |
| 55mm | Medium faces — the most popular fit |
| 57mm | Larger or wider faces |
Not sure? The 55mm is our most-ordered size and fits most adults comfortably.
What's Included
- AO Original Pilot Gold Frame Sunglasses
- Snap-Top Leather Case
- Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
Shipping & Returns
- Ships within 1–2 business days
- Free returns within 30 days — no questions asked
- Warranty registration available after purchase
![]() Veteran-Owned & Operated Founded and run by a U.S. military veteran. We know what pilots need. |
![]() Authorized AO Eyewear Dealer Buy with confidence. Full manufacturer warranty support and hassle-free registration. |
⭐ 4.8
Trusted by Pilots Since 2002Over 20 years of expert customer support. Real people, real answers. |
How To Determine The Right Size For You
Exchanges & Returns
We have a 30-day exchange and return policy, which means you have 30 days from purchasing your item to request an exchange or return. Your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, and in its original packaging.
We will send you a return shipping label at no cost to you. We will process returns and exchanges as quickly as possible and advise you immediately of any unexpected delays in processing your return or exchange.
You can contact us for any return question at jetaviator7@aviator-sunglasses.net.
Choose options












