All cliches aside, there does seem to be some sort of positive correlation between coolness and wearing sunglasses. From Elvis Presley to James Bond, from Notorious B.I.G. to Steve McQueen, shades bring a mysteriousness to these style icons we know and love that transcends the actual work they’re known for. It’s no wonder why eyewear brands find the strongest inspiration often comes from these famous figures.
This week, Los Angeles-based Oliver Peoples has followed up its Gregory Peck and Cary Grant installments with a new Estate Series collection based on Cool Hand Luke himself, Paul Newman.
The Frames Newman Would Actually Wear
There’s a fitting symmetry to Oliver Peoples tackling Newman’s signature look. The brand built its reputation sourcing vintage American eyewear from the 1920s-1960s — the exact era Newman favored. The new collection centers on those oversized pilot frames the actor wore from the early 1960s onward, featuring thick teardrop lenses with 57mm width sporting straight tops and wide solid bridges.
The shades are subtle with their homage. Newman raced under “P.L. Newman” so as to separate his celebrity from his life on the track. The brand honors this with engraved initials on the metal temple cap, visible only when folded. Each pair also comes in a special co-branded packaging.
Four Colorways To Choose From
The collection offers four acetate options. Dark Amber Smoke and Walnut Tortoise replicate frames Newman wore, with the lighter tortoise paired with Regal Blue Crystal lenses. If you want polarized lenses, they’re available in the solid black and Walnut Tortoise colorways.
The standout is “Newman Blue,” a semi-transparent acetate in deep royal blue inspired by his piercing eyes and paired with smoky gray lenses. Optical frames are available as well with prescription or non-prescription lenses, and even gradient lens options.
Handmade in Japan and created with Newman’s estate, proceeds support Newman’s Own Foundation where 100% of profits go to children in need.
Spec Sheet
Lens Width: 57mm (sun), 54mm (optical)
Frame: Hand-carved acetate, solid metal hinges
Temple Length: 145mm
Colorways: Newman Blue, Dark Amber Smoke, Walnut Tortoise, Black
Lenses: Carbon Grey Crystal, Regal Blue Crystal, Sandstone Gradient Polarized, G-15 Polarized Crystal, Cool Blue (optical)
Made In: Japan
Price: $493 to $619
Pricing & Availability
Launched January 26 — the actor’s would-be 101st birthday — the Oliver Peoples Newman blue and black sunglasses retail for $555, with tortoiseshell versions at $619. Optical frames start at $493.
Recap
Oliver Peoples Paul Newman Eyewear Collection
Oliver Peoples just dropped a Paul Newman collection that nails the oversized pilot frames he wore from the ’60s onward, complete with hidden “P.L.N.” engravings that reference his racing alias. The standout is the new “Newman Blue” colorway — a translucent royal blue inspired by his eyes — and proceeds support Newman’s Own Foundation.
