American Optical Original Pilot review

American Optical's Original Pilot is the pick for buyers who want an aviator with real military history and documented specs. The company says the design was first developed in 1958 for American military pilots, was formerly called the FG-58 and went to the moon in Apollo astronaut survival kits. Today it is still made in the USA from premium global components, with bayonet temples that slide under helmets or headgear. Prices run from $250 to $345 depending on lens choice: SkyMaster glass, which AO says has superior scratch resistance, or lighter AOLite nylon, each with or without 99% polarized lenses. Both lens types list anti-reflective and smudge-resistant coatings and an ANSI Z80.3 impact rating. Three sizes cover 52mm to 57mm, and lens colors include Calobar Green and two SunFlash mirrors. Free US shipping and 30-day free returns lower the risk of ordering online. The straight bayonet temples will not suit everyone, and the top configurations cost almost as much as Randolph's gold pairs.

Who it is for

buyers who want a military pilot frame with bayonet temples

Price

$250 to $345 depending on lens type and polarization.

$250 - $345 Frame Color
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 13, 2026.

Key features

• Bayonet temples that American Optical says slide easily under helmets or headgear
• Lens choice of SkyMaster glass or AOLite nylon, each with or without polarization
• Sizes S (52-20-140mm), M (55-20-140mm) and L (57-20-140mm)
• Lens colors include Calobar Green, True-Color Gray, SunFlash Silver Mirror and SunFlash Blue Mirror
• Gold frames feature 23K plating; made in the USA from premium global components

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Free US shipping and free returns or exchanges within 30 days
• Strength: Polarized lenses that American Optical describes as 99% polarized
• Strength: Glass and nylon lenses both rated impact-resistant to ANSI Z80.3
• Weakness: Bayonet temples have straight arms rather than the curved earpieces many buyers expect
• Weakness: Top configurations reach $345
• Weakness: American Optical notes that polarized lenses are often not recommended for pilots because they can interfere with LCD panels

Key facts

• Price range: $250 to $345
• Lens options: SkyMaster glass or AOLite nylon, polarized or not
• Sizes: 52mm, 55mm, 57mm
• Frame colors: Gold, Silver, Matte Silver, Black
• Shipping and returns: Free US shipping, 30-day free returns

Where it ranks

American Optical Original Pilot is No. 2 in our Best Aviator Sunglasses verdict.