If you’re new to the vintage sunglasses world, you might not be familiar with all the language used by those selling (and buying) these unique pieces.  One of such terms you’ve probably encountered while exploring vintage retailers like Giant Vintage is “deadstock.”

So, what exactly are deadstock frames or sunglasses? That’s what you’ll learn in this article. You’ll also learn why purchasing these glasses is an excellent idea. Let’s go!

 

What Are Deadstock Sunglasses? 

Simply put, deadstock sunglasses are vintage glasses that have never been worn. This makes them both old and new at the same time. Old, as they were manufactured at least 20 years ago, classifying them as “vintage.” But they’re also brand new in the sense that they haven’t been pre-owned. That’s why deadstock is often referred to as “new old stock” (as contradictory as that term sounds!).

Where Do Deadstock Glasses Come From?

“Deadstock” isn’t unique to the vintage eyeglasses world. Google it, and you’ll find it across numerous e-commerce platforms. In e-commerce (regardless of the products), this term signifies inventory that has never been sold. However, in most industries, this inventory is considered deadstock because it’s expired or low-quality (making it unsellable). This isn’t the case with deadstock glasses.

Deadstock glasses typically come from old warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and optician shop storerooms that closed down or discontinued specific models. As a result, these glasses sit for decades in a new and unused condition, and often even in their original packaging. That is until a vintage retailer like Giant Vintage unearths them and brings these forgotten treasures back to life.

Why Purchase Deadstock Vintage Glasses

When they hear the word “vintage,” most people think of sunglasses at least two decades old and previously worn. Some might even think that the concept of new old stock takes away from the nostalgic charm of vintage eyewear. So, why go for these sunglasses instead of their “traditional” vintage counterparts?

Affordable Prices

Deadstock vintage sunglasses are often significantly less expensive than “regular” vintage eyewear, let alone contemporary frames. This has to do with the fact that they’re often found in larger quantities. But don’t let the phrase “larger quantities” scare you. High-quality deadstock vintage sunglasses in original styles are still quite rare and often one-of-a-kind.

High Quality

Traditional vintage glasses might have a certain charm, but by the time you get your hands on them, they’re rarely in optimal condition. In this sense, deadstock sunglasses offer the best of both worlds – they’re made with the quality and the craftsmanship of the past yet are essentially brand new. This means they have no scratches or dents and still have their structural integrity. This allows you to add or remove lenses without worrying about the frame’s fragility.

Unique Vintage Frames and Styles

Just imagine the beauty and diversity of deadstock sunglasses found in artisan shops in cities like New York, Paris, and Rome, and you’ll immediately understand their appeal. Just like you’re on a hunt for the perfect pair of vintage glasses, the owners of these shops scour the world for the most exquisite pieces for their collections.

Where to Buy Deadstock Glasses

One of the store owners who would venture wherever to create the perfect sunglasses collection for her customers is Annabelle, the owner and CEO of Giant Vintage. That’s what makes this online store the ultimate destination for genuine deadstock vintage glasses. Do you want something as big and bold as the PLASTIC glasses or a more classic style like KIKO? It doesn’t matter, Giant Vintage has got you covered either way.