Up for sale are these vintage oversized plastic eyeglass frames from Pathway Optical, featuring a classic light blue translucent frame with gold-filled temples. These stylish frames reflect the bold, oversized eyewear designs that were very popular during the late 1970s and 1980s.
The temples are stamped “Pathway USA 1/20 12K GF”, indicating gold-filled metal construction on the temple arms, a quality feature commonly found on vintage optical frames.
These frames were obtained from the estate of a longtime optometrist and are New Old Stock (NOS)—they have never been worn and have been stored for many years.
Brand: Pathway Optical
Origin: USA
Material: Plastic front with gold-filled metal temples
Temple Marking: Pathway USA 1/20 12K GF
Temple Length: Approximately 5 1/2 inches
Approximate Frame Width: About 5 inches
Color: Light Blue Translucent
Condition: New Old Stock – Never Worn
The measurements are hard to read on these, however I believe they say 52/19.
Because these frames have been stored for many years, they will likely require minor adjustment by an optician for proper fit. Any optical shop should be able to install prescription lenses and adjust the frames to fit comfortably.
Pathway Optical Co. was a U.S. optical distributor that supplied eyewear frames and optical products to optometrists across the country for several decades during the mid-20th century into the 1980s. The company offered a wide range of fashionable and durable frames, including many oversized plastic styles that became iconic during the 1970s and 1980s.
Today, vintage frames from this era are appreciated for their distinctive retro styling and solid construction, and unused examples are becoming increasingly difficult to find.
Please review measurements carefully before purchasing, as returns are not accepted.
Feel free to contact me with any questions prior to purchase. I will gladly provide additional photos or details if needed.
Vintage new-old-stock frames like these are becoming harder to find, making them a great choice for collectors, optical shops, or anyone looking for authentic vintage eyewear.