Cébé 2500 Vintage Gold-Tone Glacier Sunglasses
Eyewear - Sunglasses (Glacier/Sport style) · Yellow gold finish; likely achieved through electroplating or a PVD coating over a durable base metal alloy.
Purity: Non-solid gold; likely gold-plated or gold-toned base metal (nickel or steel). These are performance optics, not jewelry-grade solid gold.
Type
Eyewear - Sunglasses (Glacier/Sport style)
Purity
Non-solid gold; likely gold-plated or gold-toned base metal (nickel or steel). These are performance optics, not jewelry-grade solid gold.
Gold Type
Yellow gold finish; likely achieved through electroplating or a PVD coating over a durable base metal alloy.
Weight
35-45 grams (total weight including glass lenses and ear socks). The gold content specifically is negligible (measured in microns of plating weight).
Description
These are iconic Cébé 2500 series sunglasses, a staple of vintage European mountaineering culture. Featuring a slim, gold-toned wire frame and exceptionally dark lenses designed for light reflection on glaciers, they represent a fusion of technical performance and classic 90s style. The frames are lightweight yet rigid, designed to withstand extreme temperature shifts found in alpine environments.
Key Features
Signature 'CEBE 2500' lens stencil, minimalist gold-tone wire rims, and wrap-around temple tips for high-activity stability.
Color & Finish
Classic pale yellow gold with a satin to semi-polished finish. Visible patina and slight dulling on the bridge and hinges suggests age and use.
Hallmarks & Stamps
The lens is marked 'CEBE 2500'. Internal temple markings likely include 'Frame France' or 'Handmade in France' along with model number and CE safety marks.
Dimensions Estimate
Lens width: 54mm; Bridge: 18mm; Temple length: 135mm. Frame is a standard adult medium fit.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Features authentic mineral glass lenses, likely Category 4 darkness for high-altitude protection, with a distinct green-black tint.
Clasp & Closure
Standard barrel-hinge temple closures with small flat-head screws. Plastic/rubberized ear socks for grip.
Chain & Links
N/A; features a thin wire-frame rim construction with a standard arched bridge and integrated nose pad arms.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-pressed wire frame with manual hinge assembly. Soldering points at the bridge and hinges are well-concealed, typical of French optical standards of the period.
Authentication Indicators
Correct lens stenciling positioning, high-quality hinge tension, and specific 2500 model geometry. Red flag: If the 'CEBE' logo is a sticker rather than etched/printed, it may be a reproduction.
Origin & Maker
France; manufactured by Cébé (established in Morez in 1892), a brand famous for mountaineering and cycling eyewear.
Era & Period
Late 1980s to Early 1990s (The 'Retro-Sport' era). Indicators include the rectangular-oval lens shape and the Cebe 2500 branding typical of high-alpine vintage gear.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-1995. Based on the 2500 series production timeline and the specific 'CEBE' font on the lens.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Golden Age' of French optical manufacturing when Alpine sports drove innovation in luxury-utility eyewear. They were frequently worn by professional ski instructors and climbers.
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition. Minor surface scratches on the gold plating near the bridge. Lenses appear intact but require inspection for micro-pitting. Ear socks show slight hardening indicative of age.
Value Estimate
$80 - $150 USD. Value is based entirely on 'Vintage Eyewear' collectibility rather than gold melt value. Market demand varies by lens condition.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with specialized lens spray and microfiber cloth only. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they can strip old plating. Store in a hard case to prevent frame misalignment.
Similar Items
Vuarnet District series, vintage Ray-Ban Outdoorsman, or Julbo Vermont glacier glasses.
Interesting Facts
Cébé was the first brand to create specialized goggles for climbers. Their '2500' and '4000' series glass was legendary among Himalayan explorers for preventing snow blindness.