Ray-Ban B&L 40020 Cat-Eye Sunglasses – Deadstock, Original Glass Lenses
Overview
A true mid-century American classic. This deadstock Ray-Ban by Bausch & Lomb cat-eye represents the golden era of U.S. eyewear production, when frames were built with substantial acetate, real mineral glass lenses, and hardware meant to last decades. Elegant, sculpted, and unmistakably feminine, this silhouette defined post-war fashion and remains highly collectible today.
Brand & Model
- Brand: Ray-Ban by Bausch & Lomb (USA era)
- Model: B&L 40020
- Era: Late 1950s – early 1960s
- Origin: Made in USA
Frame Details
- Classic mid-century cat-eye silhouette
- Translucent smoky-taupe acetate
- Sculpted brow and lifted outer corners
- Original multi-barrel hinges
- Substantial, high-quality B&L construction
Lenses
- Original Bausch & Lomb mineral glass lenses
- Warm amber/brown tone
- Excellent optical clarity
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All original to the frame
Condition
Deadstock – Unworn
- New old stock from original era
- All original hardware and lenses
- No visible wear from use
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Preserved for decades
Era & Design Relevance
The cat-eye frame became the defining women’s silhouette of the late 1950s and early 1960s, worn by film stars, socialites, and style icons. During this period, Ray-Ban was still produced entirely by Bausch & Lomb in the United States, using premium acetate and real glass lenses
Pieces from this era represent:
- Pre-Luxottica Ray-Ban manufacturing
- True American optical heritage
- Heavier, higher-quality materials than modern equivalents
- Collectible mid-century design
Deadstock examples with original glass lenses are increasingly difficult to find.
Measurements
- Lens width: ~46 mm
- Bridge: ~20 mm
- Temple length: ~135 mm
- Frame width: ~135 mm
- Lens height: ~34 mm
Authenticity
This piece has been inspected and authenticated by Second Chance Authenticators, our in-house verification and grading division.
Your purchase includes:
- Confirmation of authenticity
- Expert evaluation of condition and originality
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Ongoing support from our authentication team
Second Chance Authenticators is dedicated exclusively to the authentication and grading of collectible eyewear
What’s Include
- Sunglasses (as pictured)
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If original case is not included, your choice of four soft, secure cases will be provided
Our Promise
100% Authentic — always guaranteed.
Frames are inspected by our team prior to sale.
Frames can be adjusted to fit any size face.
The pictures tell the story.
No stock photos used.
White-glove service from start to finish.
Please feel free to ask any questions.
