This guide was based on my observation of Ray Ban Aviator and Caravan models, produced by Bausch & Lomb, U.S.A and Luxottica, ITALY. Eventhough, all new model are now manufactured by Luxottica and have its markings, it does not mean that old stock of Rayban manufactured by B&L U.S.A. cannot be found on the market. If you have found this guide helpful, help others by voting YES on the bottom of the page. Ray-Ban is a high-end manufacturer of sunglasses, founded in 1937 by Bausch & Lomb, on commission of the United States Air Force (U.S.A.F.). In 1999, Bausch & Lomb sold the brand to the Italian Luxottica Group. Ray-ban has continuing to use B&L lenses for quite some time. Since Luxottica purchased Ray-Ban, they have changed some of the markings. Below are few changes (based on the observation of 2 models stated above)- the BL etching has changed to RB on the lenses- the RB is now only etched on the left hand side of the lenses, compared to previous BL is etched on both of the lenses. - the mark "B&L RAY-BAN U.S.A." has been changed to "B&L RAY-BAN ITALY" on the bridge.
There are currently two distinctive product on the market right now and they are both authentic and genuine. Vintage B&L Ray-Ban U.S.A. (Released before year 1999)An old stock of vintage sunglasses, produced more than a few decades ago by Bausch & Lomb Ray-Ban U.S.A.The right lens carries the Ray Ban logo in gold or white (depending on the model). Both lenses are etched BL next to the hinges. It also has BL logo marked on the nose pads and "B&L Ray-Ban U.S.A." marked on the bridge.New Ray-Ban By Luxottica Group, Italy. (Released after year 1999)A new stock of Ray-ban by Luxottica Group, Italy. RB logo etched on the left eye lense near hinge. It also has RB logo marked on the nose pads and "B&L RAY-BAN ITALY" marked on the bridge.
Today aviator sunglasses back in style and vintage B&L Ray Ban USA in big demand again, more than ever. In 1999 Ray Ban name was sold to European company, but Bausch & Lomb never sold they secret of making the best glass and frames in the World. Every Ray Ban sunglasses with B&L glass and frame become the most sought after. Those sunglasses are Diamond Hard, The General, Precious Metal, Shooter, Chromax, TGM, DGM, Ambermatic and more. Nobody makes them anymore.
