Persol 649 Series Sunglasses (Folding or Standard)
Persol · Clothing & Accessories > Eyewear > Sunglasses
Era / Decade
Modern / Contemporary (Current Production)
Material
Hand-made Italian Melflex Acetate frame with crystal (glass) lenses and flexible Victor Flex bridge system.
Condition
Good. Frame appears structurally sound, though there is visible lint/dust indicative of storage. Lenses need close inspection for micro-scratches which are common with crystal lenses.
Demand Level
Strong. Persol is a premium legacy brand with a cult following. Demand remains steady year-round with spikes in Spring and Summer.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
Low: $80 | Mid: $125 | High: $175
Estimated Retail Value
$260 - $350 (depending on specific polarized or photochromic lens options)
Comparable Sales
Recent eBay 'Sold' listings for used Persol 649 models range from $95 to $160 depending on lens color and condition. New without tags sets often fetch $180+.
Description
Authentic Persol sunglasses featuring the iconic 649 silhouette. Handcrafted in Italy, these frames showcase the signature Silver Arrow hinge and Meflecto system for a custom fit. Known for their pilot-style round lenses and keyhole bridge, these are a classic accessory made famous by Steve McQueen.
Key Features
Handmade in Italy; Iconic 'Supreme Arrow' metal hinges; Meflecto flexible temple system; timeless Steve McQueen-associated style; high-quality crystal lenses.
Authenticity Indicators
High Confidence. The 'Silver Arrow' hinge is a proprietary and distinct feature. Look for 'Persol Hand Made in Italy' etched inside the temple and the circular Meflecto cylinders. Authenticity also reflected by the weight of real glass lenses.
Flaws to Note
Possible surface scratches on the lenses; temple alignment should be checked (acetate can warp over time but is adjustable); visible dust/debris on frame needs cleaning.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay (best for designer sunglasses), Poshmark, or Mercari. Grailed is also an excellent option as Persol is highly regarded in menswear circles.
Selling Tips
Thoroughly clean the frames with a microfiber cloth before photographing. Take high-resolution close-ups of the hinges and the 'Persol' branding inside the arm. Mention if the original Case and Cloth are included, as this adds $20-30 to the value.