Persol Folding 0714 Sunglasses
Persol Folding 0714 Sunglasses
$452.00

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Persol Folding 0714 Sunglasses

24/31 - Havana - Crystal Green / 54

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$452.00

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DESCRIPTION RATINGS & REVIEWS PRESCRIPTION GUIDE

Stylish Persol 0714 Folding Sunglasses also known as the Steve McQueen sunglasses the most iconic style of the Persol collection and can be seen on notable faces who enjoy fashion-forward look of Persol. Full rim for men also suitable for women looking for oversized look, Easy to wear rounded tear drop frame, Patented folding frame which fold at three different points. Made of Acetate material, temple feature iconic metal Meflecto System. Color: Black/Crystal Green, Havana/Crystal Green, Havana/Crystal Sky Gradient, Light Havana/Crystal Brown, Caffe/Polarized Green Lens

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Customer Reviews

Based on 84 reviews
95%
(80)
4%
(3)
0%
(0)
1%
(1)
0%
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J
John Speice
persol reader

I wasn't aware these readers were the "full" lense and not just the bottom. I really can't use them for anything but reading- all other images are blurred for normal wear especially walking and driving. Lot of money for limited use

F
Frank Cosentino
Best *legit* glasses place to go to online

After many tries getting the same glasses from other places (at a cheaoer price, that was a mistake, because), Designer Optics was legit to #1) have the product offered was in stock (a lot of other sites *show* the product you want, but *never* get…Out of stock & other excuses); and #2) send me the real/actual product (where other sites send you a ‘knock-off’ or less legit version instead)

Best *legit* glasses place to go to online!

J
Jacqueline Gallo

Persol Folding 0714 Sunglasses

D
Daniel Snider
Awesome shades

Received quickly and great price

W
William Gollnick

The lenses are wonderful. The design is exceptional. One stem does not lock in place and the stems are too short to fit behind my ears.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Persol 0714 folding sunglasses special?

The Persol 0714 are the world's first folding sunglasses, introduced in the 1960s. They feature a patented three-point folding mechanism that allows them to collapse for easy pocket storage, requiring ten additional manufacturing steps compared to standard frames. Made famous by Steve McQueen in The Thomas Crown Affair (1968), they combine Persol's legendary Meflecto flexible temple system with the iconic Supreme Arrow hinges for a perfect blend of Italian craftsmanship and innovative design.

Can I get prescription lenses in Persol 0714 sunglasses?

Yes, the Persol 0714 sunglasses are fully prescription-ready. The frames accept prescription lenses including single vision, progressive, and polarized prescription options. The 0714 features a pilot shape with 52mm and 54mm lens sizes, a 140mm temple length, and accommodates various lens materials including optical-grade polycarbonate and crystal lenses with UV protection.

What is the Meflecto system in Persol 0714 temples?

The Meflecto system is Persol's patented flexible temple technology from the 1930s. It features metal or nylon cylinders inserted into the acetate temples, intersected with a flexible steel core. This allows the temples to bend and adapt to your unique face shape, distributing pressure evenly and eliminating discomfort during extended wear. The system requires over 10 additional manufacturing steps and is visible as distinctive lines on the temple arms.

How do Persol 0714 compare to the 649 model?

While both share the classic pilot shape and Meflecto temples, the 714 are slightly smaller and feature the patented folding mechanism with visible hardware at three points. The 649 are fixed frames that feel larger and more substantial, with a cleaner look without folding components. The 714 offers portability and the Steve McQueen heritage, while the 649 provides a more traditional, streamlined aesthetic. Both are handcrafted in Italy with the same quality acetate and Supreme Arrow hinges.

What sizes are available for Persol 0714 sunglasses?

The Persol 0714 comes in two lens sizes: 52mm (small fit) and 54mm (standard/large fit), both with a 140mm temple length. The 52mm size suits smaller faces or those preferring a closer fit, while the 54mm is the classic size worn by Steve McQueen. Both sizes feature the same pilot teardrop shape with a keyhole bridge and are available in multiple acetate colors and lens options including polarized and gradient.

Are Persol 0714 sunglasses worth the investment?

Yes, the Persol 0714 represent exceptional value for their craftsmanship and heritage. Each pair requires significantly more manufacturing steps than standard sunglasses due to the folding mechanism and Meflecto system. They're handcrafted in Italy from premium acetate with crystal or high-quality lenses offering 100% UV protection. Customer reviews consistently praise their comfort, build quality, and timeless design. As one of the most collected sunglasses in history with Steve McQueen provenance, they retain both style relevance and resale value.

Compare With Similar Frames

How the Persol Folding 0714 Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.

Read the full comparison

Persol 0714 vs 0649 vs 9649S: Which Iconic Pilot Sunglasses Are Right for You?

Choosing between Persol's legendary pilot sunglasses comes down to three factors: portability, heritage, and budget. All three models share Persol's signature Italian craftsmanship, Meflecto flexible temples, and Supreme Arrow hinges—but each serves a different purpose.

The Persol 0714: Portability Meets Icon Status

The Persol 0714 Folding Sunglasses are the choice for collectors and travelers who want the Steve McQueen legacy. The patented three-point folding mechanism makes them uniquely portable—they collapse to fit in a jacket pocket, perfect for those constantly on the move. Yes, you'll see the folding hardware on the temples and bridge, and yes, you'll pay a premium ($335-$516), but you're buying the world's first folding sunglasses with unmatched cultural cachet. The 714 runs slightly smaller than the 649, making it ideal for small to medium faces or those who prefer a closer fit. If you value innovation, portability, and owning a piece of eyewear history, the 0714 is your frame.

The Persol 0649: The Purist's Choice

The Persol 0649 Sunglasses offer a cleaner, more streamlined aesthetic without folding components. Originally designed in 1957 for Turin tram drivers and worn by Marcello Mastroianni, the 649 feels more substantial and sits larger on the face—available in 52mm, 54mm, and 56mm sizes. Many enthusiasts prefer the 649's uninterrupted lines and lower price point ($224-$427). If you don't need the folding feature and want maximum size options with a more traditional look, the 649 delivers timeless style without compromise. It's also the better choice for larger faces or those who want a bold, statement-making fit.

The Persol 9649S: Modern Heritage at a Lower Price

The Persol 9649S Sunglasses ($194-$427) bring a contemporary update to the classic 649 silhouette with modern proportions and fresh colorways. You get the same Meflecto comfort and Italian quality at the most accessible price point. The trade-off? Less heritage appeal and collector value. The 9649S is perfect for those who love the Persol pilot aesthetic but don't need the folding feature or vintage provenance—just exceptional everyday sunglasses with Italian pedigree.

Our Recommendation

Choose the 0714 if you travel frequently, want the Steve McQueen story, and value portability and innovation. Choose the 0649 if you prefer a larger, cleaner look with maximum size flexibility and don't need folding functionality. Choose the 9649S if you want Persol quality and style at the best value. All three are prescription-ready, handcrafted in Italy, and built to last decades—you truly can't go wrong.

At a Glance

Persol 0649 Sunglasses

Pros:

  • Larger frame size for medium to large faces—feels more substantial
  • Cleaner aesthetic without visible folding hardware
  • Lower price point ($224-$427 vs $335-$516)
  • More streamlined look preferred by purists
  • Available in more size options (52mm, 54mm, 56mm)

Cons:

  • No folding mechanism—less portable
  • Lacks the Steve McQueen heritage and cultural cachet
  • Fixed temples don't collapse for travel
  • Not as conversation-worthy or collectible

Persol 9649S Sunglasses

Pros:

  • More affordable entry point ($194-$427)
  • Modern updated proportions and fresh color options
  • Same Meflecto comfort system and Supreme Arrow hinges
  • Lighter weight without folding hardware
  • Prescription-ready like the 714

Cons:

  • Less iconic—not the original 649 or Steve McQueen 714
  • No folding portability feature
  • Doesn't carry the same heritage or collector appeal
  • Less recognizable to eyewear enthusiasts

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