The American Optical(AO) Ful-Vue Liner is one of the core, defining frames of the 20th century. It is also one of the best made in terms of life-time durability. From the 1940's to the very early 1970's, most Liners were 1/10 12K gold. The cupped temple ends helped keep this frame from straying out of adjustment, and the extra heavy gauge of the comfort cable temples made them not only secure, but more comfortable than other types of wrap-around ear pieces.

The Liner was never glamorous, but it wasn't cheap either. It is in the same class with the Checker Marathon, original Levi's 501s, and old Craftsman tools. Not a lot of glitz, but quality built to last a lifetime.

SIZES

Back in the day, eyeglass frames were available in more sizes, as they were more closely matched to the wearer.

The Liner was originally made in three sizes: 42, 44, and 46mm, small, medium, and large. An "extra" large 48mm was added later.

Bridge, or nose sizes, were available from 18mm up to 25mm. If you look at the picture below, you will see that the 18mm bridge on the 44mm frame is smaller than the 23mm bridge on the 42mm frame.

Temples generally ranged from 6" - 6 1/2" in standard lengths, with shorter (5 1/2", 5 3/4") and longer (6 3/4", 7") being available on a custom order basis.