As an eyewear enthusiast or a Ray-Ban fan, you may have stumbled upon a tiny ‘P’ etched on some lenses and wondered about its significance. This article will demystify the letter ‘P’ in the context of Ray-Ban lenses and delve into why choosing a pair with this particular feature might be a savvy decision.
What does 3p mean on Ray Bans?
If your Ray Ban sunglasses lenses display a ‘3p’, it signifies that they are category three polarized lenses. Category 3 indicates stronger glare protection, with the ‘P’ representing polarization, which further reduces glare.
Ray-Ban uses various designations for their lenses, typically consisting of a number followed by a letter. The numbers run from 1 to 4, where 1 indicates minimal glare protection with very bright lenses and 4 represents a strong tint, suitable only for extreme conditions like mountain environments.
Following the number is a letter – if it’s a ‘P,’ you have a polarized lens. If there is no ‘P’, and instead, an ‘N’ is present, you have non-polarized lenses.
The value of polarized sunglasses
Polarized sunglasses are especially beneficial for drivers and anglers, who often face surfaces that reflect the sun’s rays, such as wet roads, vehicle windshields, or bodies of water. With normal Ray Ban sunglasses, you might find yourself squinting in these conditions. However, with polarized lenses, glare is virtually imperceptible.
Polarized sunglasses not only enhance the image contrast and make reflective surfaces appear darker, but they also effectively block reflections from these surfaces. Polarized lenses block glare by filtering out horizontal light waves reflected off shiny surfaces like water, snow, or metal. This allows only vertical light waves to reach your eyes, improving clarity and contrast. Polarized sunglasses also provide adequate UV protection, reducing eye strain and fatigue.
What does ‘AP’ on a Ray-Ban lens signify?
Certain Ray-Ban sunglasses bear an ‘AP’ on the lens, indicating the presence of an anti-reflective coating. This thin layer minimizes the light reflected off the lens’s back surface, reducing glare and ghost images. Additionally, it enhances your sunglasses’ aesthetic appeal by giving the lenses a more transparent and less shiny appearance.
Exploring polarized lens options from Ray-Ban
Ray-Ban provides a range of polarized lens options to cater to diverse needs and preferences. Some options for polarized lenses in the new Ray Ban sunglasses include:
- G-15 polarized lenses: Originally developed for military use, these classic green lenses offer natural vision with high contrast and clarity. They block 85% of visible light and 100% of UV rays.
- B-15 polarized lenses: Similar to G-15 lenses but with a brown tint, these lenses enhance color perception and contrast. They are ideal for low-light conditions and outdoor activities, blocking 85% of visible light and 100% of UV rays.
- Mirror polarized lenses: These lenses have a reflective coating, reducing glare and enhancing style. Available in a range of colors like blue, silver, gold, or green, they block 99% of reflected light and 100% of UV rays.
- Chromance polarized lenses: These lenses have a special filter enhancing color, contrast, and detail. They also feature an anti-reflective coating that reduces glare and eye strain. Ideal for sports and outdoor activities, they block 100% of UV rays and some blue light.
Are Ray-Ban P more expensive?
Ray-Ban sunglasses equipped with polarized lenses tend to be more costly than their non-polarized counterparts. This is due to the inclusion of a layer that filters out horizontally oriented light waves, which cause glare, thereby increasing production costs and enhancing lens quality and performance.
The price of Ray-Ban sunglasses reflects their value and quality. Depending on the model, features, and coatings, the price may vary. However, many customers believe the additional expense of polarized lenses is justified by the benefits they provide. Polarized lenses can enhance your vision, comfort, and safety in situations where glare is problematic. They also protect your eyes from harmful UV rays and blue light, which can contribute to eye damage and diseases.
How to spot fake Ray-Ban sunglasses?
Ray-Ban sunglasses are known for their style, functionality, and durability. Their popularity also makes them a target for counterfeiters who produce and sell fake Ray-Ban sunglasses at lower prices. Not only do these counterfeit sunglasses offer inferior quality and performance, but they can also jeopardize your eye health and safety.
So, how can you spot fake Ray-Ban sunglasses and avoid getting scammed? Here are some tips:
- Check the logo: Authentic Ray-Ban sunglasses should have the Ray-Ban logo printed or engraved on the right lens, the left temple arm, and the nose pads. The logo should be clear, consistent, and aligned. Fake Ray-Ban sunglasses may have blurry, crooked, or missing logos.
- Verify the model number: The model number should be printed on the inside of the left temple arm. It should match the model number on the box and on the official Ray-Ban website. Fake Ray-Ban sunglasses may have incorrect or missing model numbers.
- Examine the serial number: Authentic Ray-Ban sunglasses should have a unique serial number engraved on the inside of the right temple arm. It should match the serial number on the box and the official Ray-Ban website. Fake Ray-Ban sunglasses may have duplicate or missing serial numbers.
- Assess the quality: Genuine Ray-Ban sunglasses should be high in quality and consistency. The frames should be sturdy and smooth, without any cracks or gaps. The lenses should be clear and scratch-resistant, without any bubbles or distortions. The hinges should be tight and smooth, without any squeaks or looseness. Fake Ray-Ban sunglasses may exhibit signs of poor-quality materials and craftsmanship.
- Consider the price: If a pair of Ray-Ban sunglasses are significantly cheaper than their retail price, they are likely counterfeit. Be wary of online sellers who offer discounts that seem too good to be true.
The safest way to ensure you’re purchasing authentic Ray-Ban sunglasses is to buy them from an authorized dealer or the official Ray-Ban website. You can also authenticate your purchase by registering your product on the official Ray-Ban website or by reaching out to their customer service.
Conclusion
Ray-Ban polarized sunglasses are more than just a stylish accessory; they’re a wise investment for your eyes and overall style. The ‘P’ in Ray-Ban lenses signifies that they are polarized, meaning they can reduce glare, enhance contrast, and protect your eyes from harmful light. Polarized lenses are particularly useful for drivers, anglers, and anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors. However, polarized lenses are typically more expensive than non-polarized lenses, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a purchase.