Free Shipping
Price Match
Easy Returns
Licensed Opticians
The Persol 2803S sunglasses deliver Italian craftsmanship in a clean rectangular silhouette that works for daily wear. Built from durable acetate with a 58mm lens width and 140mm temples, these frames suit men with medium to larger head sizes—a fit advantage confirmed by long-term owners who appreciate how the proportions balance comfort with coverage.
Meflecto Flexible Temple Technology
What sets Persol apart is the patented Meflecto system, first introduced in the 1930s and still engineered into the 2803S temples. Tiny nylon or metal cylinders are inserted vertically through the acetate temple, intersected by a flexible steel core running the length of each arm. This allows the temples to adapt to your unique head shape without creating pressure points—a feature that eliminates the headaches common with rigid frames during extended wear. The process adds over 10 manufacturing steps compared to standard frames, but the result is a pair of sunglasses that molds to you, not the other way around.
The double silver arrow detail on each temple isn't just Persol's signature—it marks the location of the Meflecto flex points. Owners report the system delivers on its promise: one reviewer noted the frames "form to the shape of your head and face for a perfect fit," while another shared they've worn their pair daily for years without discomfort.
Built to Last Decades
Durability is a recurring theme in real-world feedback. The acetate construction is noticeably stronger than typical plastic frames, and the standard hinges prove reliable over time. Available in classic colorways including Black with Crystal Green Polarized lenses and Havana with Crystal Brown Polarized lenses, the 2803S offers 100% UV protection. Polarized variants cut glare effectively for driving and outdoor activities.
"Having purchased these in 2009 they haven't really worn at all a testament to their quality and robust design." — From Tailors With Love
The rectangular shape flatters oval and round face shapes, and the full-rim design is compatible with prescription lenses—including bifocals and progressives—making these a practical choice if you need corrective eyewear. The 58-16-140mm measurements provide generous coverage without looking oversized, and the hypoallergenic acetate is lightweight enough for all-day wear.
If you're looking for sunglasses that combine Italian heritage, functional innovation, and proven longevity, the Persol 2803S is a solid investment. These aren't disposable fashion frames—they're built for years of use.
Product Details
Product DetailsModel
0PO2803SShape
Gender
Material
Bridge Type
Rim Type
Age Group
Color Details
Color DetailsFrame Color
TortoiseColor Code
24/57Color Description
HavanaLens Color
Crystal Brown Polarized
Color Code
181/71Color Description
BlueLens Color
Grey Gradient
Color Code
309/58Color Description
Transparent GreyLens Color
Green Polar
Color Code
1144R5Color Description
Solid BlueLens Color
Blue
Frame Color
TortoiseColor Code
24/BFColor Description
HavanaLens Color
Clear
Frame Color
BlackColor Code
95/58Color Description
BlackLens Color
Crystal Green PolarizedLens Features
polarized
Color Code
110332Color Description
Grey Taupe TrasparentLens Color
Gradient Grey
Size Details
Size DetailsLens Width
58mmBridge Width
16mmTemple Length
140mmSize
5816-140
Size
5816-140
Bridge Width
16.00Temple Length
140.00Size
5816-140
Bridge Width
16.00Temple Length
140.00Size
5816-140
Bridge Width
16.00Temple Length
140.00Size
5816-140
Lens Width
58mmBridge Width
16mmTemple Length
140mmSize
5816-140
Bridge Width
16.00Temple Length
140.00Size
5816-140
The best sun glasses that I ever had,it’s too bad that I lost the first pair.
replaced an older pair of persols they were the exact same quality.
Easy transaction, prompt delivery.
I love my new Persol's. The pair which I had for 25 years was stolen out of my car. That was terrible as I don't have lot's of money. Anyway, thank you. I will have these for another 25 years and bring them in at night. William Roberts
Second time I’ve done business with Design Optics and will continue to do so!
California Proposition 65 Proposition 65 is a California regulation that requires special warnings to be presented to customers if a product contains certain quantities of chemicals or toxicants known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm. The following warning applies to the products linking to this page:
WARNING: Reproductive Harm – https://www.p65warnings.ca.gov/Free Shipping within the contiguous US only (excluding Hawaii and Alaska) on all Orders over $100.
At DesignerOptics.com we are committed to the highest quality of service.
We ship products to all 50 US states as well as to many other countries around the world. We take all the measures to ship our items in a timely manner, directly to your door, almost anywhere in the world.
In stock products usually ship within two business days, but may take up to five business days*. When an order ships you will receive a confirmation email with the tracking information. You can also track your order by logging into your account.
We provide FREE SHIPPING on all orders over $100 We also offer overnight and second day delivery shipping options. Please note that when using next day or second day delivery it still takes 48 to 72 Business hours for the order to be processed.
The Designer Optics Low Price Guarantee is simple:
Designeroptics.com matches the price of all retail competitors and major online retailers.
How it works:
Place the frames in your cart
Before placing your order in add the following the comments box, Add the URL (web address) of the page where you found the lower-priced item,
Your credit card will not be charged until we have confirmed with you by phone or by email that your item qualifies for our Price-Match Guarantee.
Please Follow those easy steps for returns
1- Please fill out this form Return Authorization Form to get an RMA # you will receive a RMA # with instruction on how to return them within 48 to 72 Business hours from the time you submitted the form. Wait for our confirmation e-mail before shipping back the return
2- Send the product back to us following the instructions indicated in our e-mail and to the address we will provide you.
3- Make sure to confirm with us via e-mail the shipping date, the shipping service you used and the tracking number whenever you have
4- Include details of the return and how you would like for us to go about it (refund, store credit, exchange, etc). Designer Optics is not responsible for items damaged along the way.
Please allow us 3 to 5 business days from when items are received for us to process the refund. The amount to be refunded will not include shipping charges. if the order consists of 3 or more frames we will charge a 20% Restocking fee. otherwise only the shipping will be deducted.
Some exclusions may apply. Please note prescription lenses are final sale. We also do not accept returns on beauty products due to health and safety concerns. For more information please go to Returns
At Designer Optics, our skilled and experienced lab opticians play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and accuracy of your eyewear. With over 30 combined years of experience and full licensure, they review each prescription carefully and are equipped to answer any questions you may have.
Our state-of-the-art lab is equipped with the latest technology and equipment, including advanced edging and cutting technology, to produce lenses that are precise and accurate. Whether you need full frame or rimless lenses, our team is dedicated to providing the best possible results.
For personalized support, simply send an email to Support@designeroptics.com to request a call back from one of our friendly opticians.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Persol 2803S sunglasses compatible with prescription lenses?
Yes, the Persol 2803S is fully prescription-ready and compatible with single vision, bifocal, and progressive lenses. The 58mm lens width and full-rim construction provide ample space for optical labs to install custom prescription lenses. Many customers specifically purchase these frames to add prescription polarized lenses for driving and outdoor activities.
What is the Meflecto system in Persol 2803S sunglasses?
The Meflecto is Persol's patented flexible temple system, first developed in the 1930s. It uses nylon or metal cylinders inserted through the acetate temples, intersected with a flexible steel core. This allows the temples to bend and adapt to your unique head shape, eliminating pressure points and providing superior comfort during extended wear. The system requires over 10 additional manufacturing steps compared to standard frames.
Do Persol 2803S sunglasses fit larger heads?
Yes, the Persol 2803S is well-suited for medium to larger head sizes. With 58mm lens width and 140mm temple length, these frames offer generous proportions. The Meflecto flexible temple system also helps accommodate different head shapes by allowing the temples to flex and conform to your specific dimensions, making them more comfortable than rigid frames for people with larger heads.
Are the Persol 2803S lenses polarized?
The Persol 2803S is available in both polarized and non-polarized lens options. Popular polarized variants include the 95/58 (Black frame with Crystal Green Polarized lenses) and 24/57 (Havana frame with Crystal Brown Polarized lenses). Polarized lenses eliminate nearly 100% of surface glare, making them ideal for driving, water activities, and bright outdoor conditions. All lenses provide 100% UV protection.
How durable are Persol 2803S sunglasses?
The Persol 2803S is exceptionally durable, with many owners reporting 5-25 years of regular use without significant wear. The acetate frame material is stronger than typical plastic, and the Meflecto temple system is engineered to withstand repeated flexing without breaking. The standard hinges are robust and reliable over time, making these a long-term investment rather than disposable fashion sunglasses.
What face shapes work best with Persol 2803S sunglasses?
The Persol 2803S features a rectangular lens shape that works particularly well for oval and round face shapes. The angular lines of the rectangular frame add definition and structure to softer facial features. The 58mm lens width provides balanced proportions for medium to larger faces without appearing oversized. The clean, structured design offers a versatile look that complements most face shapes.
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Persol 2803S Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Lower starting price point ($155.27 vs $220.59)
- Slightly more compact 55mm lens width for smaller to medium faces
- Square shape offers a different aesthetic while maintaining classic Persol styling
- Mid-range pricing ($174.68-$333) between the 3019S and 2803S
- Features the same Meflecto flexible temple system
- Rectangular shape similar to 2803S with slightly different proportions
Read the full comparison
Persol 2803S vs 3019S vs 3048S: Which Rectangular Frame Is Right for You?
All three models share Persol's signature Italian craftsmanship and the patented Meflecto flexible temple system, but they differ in sizing, styling, and price. Here's how to choose.
Best for Larger Heads: Persol 2803S
The 2803S offers the most generous proportions with its 58mm lens width and 140mm temples. If you've struggled with sunglasses feeling tight or creating pressure points, the 2803S is specifically noted by owners as accommodating larger head sizes. The Meflecto system adapts to your unique shape, and the rectangular lenses provide maximum coverage. Expect to invest $220-$397, but you're getting a frame with documented longevity—many owners report 10-25 years of daily use.
Best Value: Persol 3019S
Starting at $155.27, the 3019S delivers Persol quality at a lower entry price. The 55mm lens width suits smaller to medium faces better than the 2803S, and the square shape offers a slightly different aesthetic. You still get the Meflecto temples and Italian acetate construction, making this an excellent choice if the 2803S feels too large or if you prefer a more compact frame.
The Middle Ground: Persol 3048S
Priced between the other two ($174-$333), the 3048S splits the difference in both cost and styling. It's another rectangular option with Meflecto temples, mentioned by long-term Persol owners as a reliable alternative. If you like the 2803S aesthetic but want to explore slightly different proportions or design details, the 3048S is worth considering.
Our Recommendation
Choose the 2803S if you have a medium to larger head, want maximum sun coverage, and value proven durability—this is the frame owners keep for decades. Opt for the 3019S if you prefer a more compact fit or want to save $65-100 while still getting authentic Persol quality. Consider the 3048S if you want a balance of size and price with rectangular styling similar to the 2803S.
At a Glance
Persol 3019S Sunglasses
Pros:
- Lower starting price point ($155.27 vs $220.59)
- Slightly more compact 55mm lens width for smaller to medium faces
- Square shape offers a different aesthetic while maintaining classic Persol styling
- Same Meflecto flexible temple technology for comfort
Cons:
- Smaller lens size may not suit larger heads as well as the 2803S
- Less coverage for sun protection compared to 58mm 2803S lenses
- May feel tighter on wider faces due to more compact proportions
Persol 3048S Sunglasses
Pros:
- Mid-range pricing ($174.68-$333) between the 3019S and 2803S
- Features the same Meflecto flexible temple system
- Rectangular shape similar to 2803S with slightly different proportions
- Proven durability and Italian craftsmanship
Cons:
- Specific sizing may vary from the 2803S—try-on recommended
- Less documentation about fit for larger heads compared to 2803S
- Styling details differ from the classic 2803S aesthetic