Vintage White Gold-Filled Navigator Style Sunglasses
Eyewear / Sunglasses (Metal Frame) · White Gold (Rhodium coated or white gold alloy bonded layer)
Purity: Likely 12K or 14K Gold-Filled (GF). This represents a thick layer of gold mechanically bonded to a base metal, usually making up 5% of the total weight, rather than solid gold.
Type
Eyewear / Sunglasses (Metal Frame)
Purity
Likely 12K or 14K Gold-Filled (GF). This represents a thick layer of gold mechanically bonded to a base metal, usually making up 5% of the total weight, rather than solid gold.
Gold Type
White Gold (Rhodium coated or white gold alloy bonded layer)
Weight
35 to 45 grams total weight; gold content is nominal (likely under 2 grams of actual gold fine weight).
Description
These are classic vintage navigator-style sunglasses featuring a robust white gold-filled frame. The design utilizes a double bridge for structural integrity and green-tinted lenses, reminiscent of pilot eyewear from the mid-20th century. The metallic finish provides a sophisticated, understated alternative to yellow gold.
Key Features
Double-bar bridge, squared lens shape, white gold-filled composition, and original glass lenses. The visible soldering points at the bridge suggest vintage hand-assembly.
Color & Finish
Cool silver-tone white gold finish with a high-polish reflective surface. Significant signs of oxidation and patina on the inner frame and bridge.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Expected marks would be on the inner temple arms or the underside of the bridge, likely stamped '1/10 12K GF' or '1/20 14K GF' and a manufacturer logo such as 'AO' (American Optical) or 'B&L' (Bausch & Lomb).
Dimensions Estimate
Standard men's size; lens width approximately 55-58mm, bridge width 16-20mm, temple length 140mm.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Features green-tinted glass lenses (likely mineral glass) and yellowed acetate/plastic ear paddles and nose pads.
Clasp & Closure
Standard barrel-hinge screw construction at the temples for folding functionality.
Chain & Links
N/A - Rigid frame construction with a double-bar bridge design.
Craftsmanship Details
Soldered joints at the bridge and hinges; machine-stamped frame components with hand-fitted screws. High-quality industrial manufacturing characteristic of the mid-20th century.
Authentication Indicators
Color consistency is standard for white gold-filled items; however, the green corrosion near the hinges indicates a base metal core (copper or brass) typical of gold-filled rather than solid gold items.
Origin & Maker
Likely USA or Germany. Based on the style, they resemble vintage American Optical or Randolph Engineering contracts.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / Retro (1960s to 1970s). The squared-off navigator/aviator silhouette was prominent during the Cold War and Space Age era.
Age Estimate
Circa 1965-1975 based on the soldering of the double bridge and the rectangular lens shape.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Mid-Century Professional' aesthetic; these frames were popularized by NASA astronauts and military personnel during the 1960s.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. The right lens (bottom in image) is severely cracked. The frame shows pitting and tarnish, particularly near the nose pads. The plastic ear pieces have yellowed significantly with age.
Value Estimate
Melt Value: Under $50 USD. Collector Value: $40-$80 USD in current damaged condition. Restored/Mint value could reach $150-$250 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with ultrasonic for the frame if lenses are removed; replace cracked lenses immediately to prevent injury. Do not use harsh chemicals on the gold-filled layer as it can wear through to the base metal.
Similar Items
Ray-Ban Caravan, American Optical Original Pilot, Randolph Engineering Aviator. Solid 14K versions exist but are extremely rare compared to G.F. models.
Interesting Facts
The Navigator style was an evolution of the 1930s Aviator, designed specifically to fit under flight helmets used by military pilots.