Rare Antique 1911 F.A. Hardy \"The Autoglas\" Folding Aviator Sunglasses W/ Case For Sale

Up for sale is a remarkably preserved piece of early American aviation and motoring history: an authentic pair of F.A. Hardy \"The Autoglas\" folding sunglasses complete with original butterfly-shaped clamshell case.
This specific design is widely recognized by historic eyewear collectors as the direct structural blueprint and evolutionary ancestor of the modern aviator sunglass style.
**Key Features & Historical Significance:*** **Patent Date Stamp:** Stamped clearly with the original design issue date: \"May 2 11\" (May 2, 1911). * **Innovative Folding Design:** Features a fully functional central bridge hinge that pivots smoothly, allowing the glasses to fold cleanly onto themselves for compact storage.* **Cable Temples:** Equipped with flexible, curved wire cable ear loops designed to securely wrap around the ears—originally built to keep the glasses in place during open-cockpit flights or windy motorcar rides.* **Lenses:** Striking amber glass teardrop-shaped lenses designed to wrap close to the facial structure to defend against wind, dust, and intense sun glare.**Condition Details:*** **Frames & Hinge:** Excellent working condition. The central folding hinge operates smoothly without any cracks or loose play. The original gold plating remains vibrant, exhibiting high resistance to rust and a beautiful antique luster.* **Lenses:** Great condition for their age. The amber glass lenses show excellent clarity with no major gouges or distracting rim chips.* **Case:** Included is the authentic, fabric-lined metal clamshell case. While the exterior leatherette finish shows heavy scuffing and honest age-related wear (the original gold lettering has faded away), the structural metal body and interior protective felt lining remain perfectly intact and properly contoured to the glasses.Please review the high-resolution photos carefully to assess the physical condition. This is an exceptional addition for any collector of antique militaria, early transportation memorabilia, pre-WWI aviation gear, or vintage steampunk fashion.
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