Vintage Ray-Ban Wayfarers: "B&L Ray-Ban USA" Marking Explained

Finding "B&L Ray-Ban USA" stamped on the temple of your thrifted Wayfarers does not mean they're fake. In fact, it's a hallmark of authentic 1980s–1990s production.

The Bausch & Lomb Era (1937–1999)

• 1937: Bausch & Lomb (B&L), Rochester NY, licenses Ray-Ban from American Optical.
• 1952: Wayfarer launched (design by Raymond Stegeman).
• 1980s–1999: Temple marking "B&L Ray-Ban USA" (or "B&L Ray-Ban" + "USA" separate) = genuine B&L-manufactured frames.
• 1999: B&L sells Ray-Ban to Luxottica (Italian conglomerate).
• Post-1999: Markings shift to "Ray-Ban" + "Italy" or "Ray-Ban" + "China" (Luxottica factories).

How to Verify Your Pair

Red Flags for Fakes

• Misspelled "Ray-Ban" (e.g., "Ray-Ben", "RayBan").
• No lens etching (or crude laser dot).
• Flimsy hinges, thin acetate, uneven seams.
• "Made in China" on pre-1999 style frames.
• Price too good (<$30 for vintage).

Your Goodwill Find

If the frames have "B&L Ray-Ban USA" + RB lens etch + RB bridge + solid hinges → likely authentic vintage (1980s–90s). Value: $50–150+ depending on condition, color, rarity (e.g., original B&L "General" series, folding Wayfarers).

Clean with mild soap/water, microfiber only. Replace lenses via Ray-Ban Authentic Lens program if scratched. You scored a piece of optical history.