Perspectives: The Timeless Appeal of Dunhill Glasses

Vintage Dunhill glasses and sunglasses. Dunhill style

Credit: Retro Spectacle

Hii, I’m James, usually I’m the one working behind the scenes to make sure your frames reach you safely, but today I’ve been given the chance to share one of my passions: Dunhill eyewear.

I’ve been in love with Dunhill for around 20 years. So, for my first blog, it only felt right to write about one of the most refined and enduring brands in men’s eyewear. 

Why Dunhill? A Legacy of British Luxury

Founded in London, Alfred Dunhill has long stood for craftsmanship, precision and quiet sophistication. Dunhill eyewear carries the same DNA as its tailoring and accessories, attention to detail, exceptional materials and timeless style. 

Just like my vintage Dunhill lambskin and cotton morotiries coat from 2003 (still in fantastic condition), Dunhill frames are made to last. Every pair shares the brand’s signature traits: function, form and understated elegance. 

The Dunhill Difference 

When you get your hands on a pair of vintage Dunhill glasses, you immediately feel what sets them apart, premium materials, thoughtful engineering and unmistakable style. 

Our Dunhill customers are just as varies as the brand itself: from sharp-suited professionals in their twenties to seasoned gents with a taste for timeless luxury. What unites them? A love for quality and quiet confidence.

Shop Our Dunhill Collection

Four Dunhill Frames That Define the Brand 

I’ve catalogued, handled and (admittedly) spent too long admiring every Dunhill frame in our collection. Here are four of my personal favourites and what makes them special: 

Dunhill 6099 - Refined Engineering 

I own a pair of Dunhill 6099s (size 60-15, colour 42 - dark and light grey enamel inserts). It’s slightly oversized, with lacquered detailing across the bridge and temple sides. The frame subtly tapers out at the lens base - a small but striking touch.

Perfect for broader faces, it’s elegant yet practical, offering the comfort and craftsmanship that define Dunhill. 

 

Dunhill 6099 42 Vintage Glasses
Credit: Retro Spectacle

 

Dunhill 6093 - Industrial Inspiration

This frame immediately takes me back to my love of engineering, classic cars and motorcycles. Then metal chassis wraps beautifully around the Optom front , while the supra cord securing the lens adds as unique detail rarely seen in eyewear. 

The checker-plate metal finish along the temple side is pure Dunhill, functional, masculine and stylishly mechanical. 

Dunhill 6093Credit: Retro Spectacle

Dunhill 6089 - Efforless Cool

It’s not just because Jay-Z has been spotted wearing these, but the 6089s are one of those frames that just work. The balance proportion, fit and flair perfectly. 

A raised checker-plate detail along the temples adds contrast, making them ideal as either glasses or tinted sunglasses. We stock multiple variations, and I’m still torn between tinting mine or my 6099s - maybe both!

 

Dunhill 6098 vintage glassesCredit: Retro Spectacle

Dunhill 6219 - Mechanical Artistry

The Dunhill 6219 is a masterpiece for anyone who loves design and precision. The temple sides feature cylindrical metalwork that resembles exhausts or pistons, finished with pewter and gold detailing. 

It’s bold, architectural, and distinctly Dunhill. We only have two pairs left, so if it’s yours style, don’t hesitate - these are rare. 

Dunhill 6219 vintage glassesCredit: Retro Spectacle

Why Vintage Dunhill Eyewear Endures

Dunhill frames appeal to a certain “club” - a mix of creative minds, executives, collectors and design lovers. What connects them is an appreciation for quality craftsmanship and understated sophistication. 

At Retro Spectacle, we’re proud to hold one of the UK’s largest collections of authentic vintage Dunhill glasses and sunglasses. Each piece is meticulously inspected, catalogued and cared for before reaching you.

And if you’re after a specific model, colour or size, we often have unlisted stock, so please get in touch. 

Cheers

James

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