This listing is for authentic Rochester Optical AN-6531 Ful-Vue R.O.C. Brass Core Nickel Plated Frame Cable Temple Green Mineral Glass Lens WWII Era Aviator Pilot Commercial Sunglasses w/ Case 57-12-115 ULTRA RARE Pre-1949. Sunglasses are in poor/fair vintage pre-owned condition, both lenses have scratches and both temple screws have been replaced (see photos). Size: 57-12-115. Made in USA. Red hard case (non-original) included in listing. Please see pictures to make your complete condition assessment. While most vintage AN6531 Ful Vue aviators for World War II military were made by either Bausch & Lomb or American Optical, commercial licensing rights were also sold by American Optical between 1927-1949. Rochester Optical purchased the rights and produced the sunglasses in small numbers such that they are very difficult to find today and highly sought after by vintage eyewear and militaria collectors. These used a brass core frame rather than magnetic steel and the plating is nickel instead of 12K gold; this frame was lighter weight than gold plated versions. Originating in the late-1920s, the "teardrop" shape lens of the AN6531 were designed to accommodate Air Force pilots who were constantly looking down at their instrument panel while in flight, and of course all future aviators are recognized by this lens shape. The inner nose bridge is impressed R.O.C. FUL-VUE 12, an early nickel-plated version of the iconic and original AN6531 aviator.
