Spitfire
Nailsea Clip-On Aviator Sunglasses
These Nailsea clip-on aviator sunglasses from Spitfire are constructed with a light metal-acetate frame and provide 100% UV protection. They feature 55 mm eye width, 20 mm bridge, and 145 mm temple length. A rigid designer case and cleaning cloth are included.
- Material
- metal-acetate frame
- Gender
- unisex
- Style
- classic, retro, casual
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing Accessories > Sunglasses
Color
Size
Specifications
Clip-on aviator sunglasses with a lightweight metal-acetate frame and 100% UV protection, complete with rigid case and cleaning cloth.
100% UV protection, lightweight metal-acetate frame, includes rigid designer case and cleaning cloth
- Material
- metal-acetate frame
- Secondary
- plastic
- Style
- classic, retro, casual
- Gender
- unisex
- Age Group
- adult
- Condition
- new
- Category
- Apparel & Accessories > Clothing Accessories > Sunglasses
Additional Attributes
- 100% UV protection
- lightweight metal-acetate frame
- clip-on design
- aviator shape
- includes rigid designer case
- includes cleaning cloth
- London label Spitfire at Simons
- eye width 55 mm
- bridge 20 mm
- temple 145 mm
Product Insights
The Nailsea Clip-On Aviator Sunglasses by Spitfire marry optical-grade glass lenses with a clip-on design to deliver heritage-level scratch resistance and chromatic aberration reduction at 99 CAD, a fraction of the price of comparable aviators. The two-piece system—a hybrid metal-acetate frame and detachable clip-on—confines the weight penalty of glass to outdoor use, but the clip-on fits only the included frame (not prescription glasses) and may cause nose pad pressure during extended wear. An included rigid case and microfiber cloth protect the lenses, while the London label and aviator styling match the cachet and construction of $150+ brands, making the tradeoff between temporary weight and exceptional clarity the core of the product story.
- Glass lenses
Glass lenses reduce chromatic aberration and resist scratches.
Why this is supported
reduces chromatic aberration (color fringing) and delivers a truer, more relaxed image
Glass lenses on a removable clip — optical_clarity_abbe_valueresist the fine scratches that inevitably develop from daily handling, clipping on and off, and being dropped into a bag
Glass lenses on a removable clip — scratch_resistance_advantageA rigid designer case and microfiber cleaning cloth are included
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — rigid_case_and_cloth_inclusion.
- Value
At 99 CAD, glass lenses offer a fraction of the price of heritage clip-on aviators.
Why this is supported
actual glass lenses, a material rarely found in sub-100 CAD clip-on aviators where polycarbonate dominates
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — glass_lenses_at_the_99_cad_price_pointWhere traditional optical houses like Ray-Ban position their clip-on aviator models well above 150 CAD, the Nailsea offers a comparable glass-and-acetate recipe for a fraction of the price
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — heritage_eyewear_comparison.
- Weight comfort
Clip-on design makes the heavier glass lenses a temporary outdoor-only weight penalty.
Why this is supported
contribute a noticeably heavier front load than the equivalent area in polycarbonate would
Glass lenses on a removable clip — glass_density_vs_polycarbonatethe full weight of the glass lenses is carried only during outdoor activities; indoors, removing the clip-on instantly restores the frame's lighter, more comfortable feel
Glass lenses on a removable clip — removability_mitigates_weight.
- Scratch resistance
Glass lenses (Mohs 6–7) offer far higher scratch resistance than polycarbonate.
Why this is supported
The clip-on's glass lenses score 6–7 on the Mohs hardness scale versus polycarbonate's much lower scratch resistance. The lens material is
actual glass lenses, a material rarely found in sub-100 CAD clip-on aviators where polycarbonate dominates
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — glass_lenses_at_the_99_cad_price_pointTo protect the lenses during storage and cleaning,
And the
spring-loaded clip mechanism that grips the frame securely without marking it
How do the clip-ons attach to existing eyeglasses? Are they magnetic, spring-loaded, or do they use a clamp mechanism?ensures the only scratch-prone surface is the glass lenses, preserving lens clarity and frame finish over time.
- Weight control
Clip-on design confines glass weight to outdoor use; extended wear may cause nose pad pressure.
Why this is supported
A removable clip-on system means the weight of glass is only carried when sun protection is needed. As research notes:
Since the clip-on attaches only when sun protection is needed, the full weight of the glass lenses is carried only during outdoor activities; indoors, removing the clip-on instantly restores the frame's lighter, more comfortable feel
Glass lenses on a removable clip — removability_mitigates_weight. The base frame is lightweight hybrid metal-acetate. However, the glass density (2.5 g/cm³ vs. polycarbonate’s 1.2 g/cm³)
contribute a noticeably heavier front load than the equivalent area in polycarbonate would — for a clip-on system that weight bears directly on the nose pads and can cause the glasses to slide forward or dig in during extended outdoor wear.
Glass lenses on a removable clip — glass_density_vs_polycarbonate. The spring-loaded clip mechanism allows quick attachment and removal without marking the frame. At 99 CAD,
, meaning buyers accept the weight downside for superior optical and scratch benefits.
- Lens quality
Glass lenses resist scratches and provide truer image than polycarbonate.
Why this is supported
Glass lenses offer dual benefits over polycarbonate. For clarity,
Crown glass used in quality sunglasses has an Abbe value of 50–60, significantly higher than polycarbonate's ~30, which reduces chromatic aberration (color fringing) and delivers a truer, more relaxed image through the tinted lenses
Glass lenses on a removable clip — optical_clarity_abbe_value. For scratch resistance,
Glass scores around 6–7 on the Mohs hardness scale versus polycarbonate's much lower scratch resistance, meaning the Nailsea's clip-on lenses resist the fine scratches that inevitably develop from daily handling, clipping on and off, and being dropped into a bag — they stay optically clear years longer than plastic clip-ons.
Glass lenses on a removable clip — scratch_resistance_advantage.
- Case necessity
Included rigid case protects glass lenses when not in use.
Why this is supported
The included rigid case is a practical necessity for the glass clip-on. As the research states:
A rigid designer case and microfiber cleaning cloth are included with the Nailsea — in a category where many competitors in the 80–120 CAD range ship with a soft pouch or nothing at all, this adds tangible carrying protection that would otherwise cost 10–15 CAD to purchase separately.
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — rigid_case_and_cloth_inclusionThe denser, more impact-sensitive glass lenses make a rigid case essential for protection when not in use.
- Frame compatibility
Clip-ons fit only the included Spitfire Nailsea frame, not over prescription glasses.
Why this is supported
Catalog verified this through Q&A testimony: the clip-ons are not universal. The seller clarifies:
No, these clip-ons are designed to attach specifically to the included Spitfire Nailsea frame, not over existing prescription frames.
Will these clip-ons fit over thicker prescription frames, such as those with wider temples or plastic arms?- Clip mechanism
Spring-loaded clip grips securely without marking the frame.
Why this is supported
The seller's Q&A explains the mechanism: a
spring-loaded clip mechanism
How do the clip-ons attach to existing eyeglasses? Are they magnetic, spring-loaded, or do they use a clamp mechanism?that
grips the frame securely without marking it
How do the clip-ons attach to existing eyeglasses? Are they magnetic, spring-loaded, or do they use a clamp mechanism?- Weight burden
The clip-on's weight is only present while attached; removal restores lighter feel.
Why this is supported
A deep research article notes that the clip-on's glass lenses are only heavy when worn:
removing the clip-on instantly restores the frame's lighter, more comfortable feel
Glass lenses on a removable clip — removability_mitigates_weight- Storage case
Rigid case protects detachable clip-on from damage during storage.
Why this is supported
The deep research explains why the rigid case is essential:
A rigid designer case and microfiber cleaning cloth are included with the Nailsea — in a category where many competitors in the 80–120 CAD range ship with a soft pouch or nothing at all
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — rigid_case_and_cloth_inclusion- Frame construction
Hybrid metal frame with adjustable nose pads and acetate tips for comfort
Why this is supported
The hybrid construction provides
metal's precise adjustability and slim lines
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — acetate_metal_frame_constructionfor the front frame, while the temple tips offer
acetate's rich, skin-friendly feel
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — acetate_metal_frame_construction.
hybrid metal-acetate frame combines acetate's rich, skin-friendly feel with metal's precise adjustability and slim lines
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — acetate_metal_frame_construction, matching the construction tier of higher-priced fashion eyewear.
- Brand curation
Spitfire is a London label sold at Simons, offering design cachet absent from budget aviators.
Why this is supported
Catalog verified that Spitfire is a London-based fashion label curated by Simons, which distinguishes the Nailsea from anonymous clip-on aviators.
Spitfire is a London-based fashion label sold through Simons' curated accessories department, which means the Nailsea carries design intent and brand cachet absent from anonymous $20-and-under clip-on aviators on marketplaces — the 99 CAD price reflects that editorial selection rather than simply bill-of-materials cost.
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — london_label_curation_vs_no_name_alternativesComparisons with heritage eyewear further confirm that the Nailsea offers a similar glass-and-acetate recipe as Ray-Ban aviators at a fraction of the price while embracing a contemporary London aesthetic.
Where traditional optical houses like Ray-Ban position their clip-on aviator models well above 150 CAD, the Nailsea offers a comparable glass-and-acetate recipe for a fraction of the price, trading the legacy logo for a contemporary London aesthetic and department-store accessibility.
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — heritage_eyewear_comparison- Accessory inclusion
Includes a rigid designer case and microfiber cleaning cloth for carrying protection.
Why this is supported
Catalog confirmed that a rigid designer case and microfiber cleaning cloth are included with the Nailsea, while many competitors in the same price range ship with only a soft pouch or no case at all.
A rigid designer case and microfiber cleaning cloth are included with the Nailsea — in a category where many competitors in the 80–120 CAD range ship with a soft pouch or nothing at all, this adds tangible carrying protection that would otherwise cost 10–15 CAD to purchase separately.
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — rigid_case_and_cloth_inclusion- Materials
Glass lenses and metal-acetate frame provide scratch resistance and optical clarity uncommon at sub-100 CAD.
Why this is supported
Catalog verified that the Nailsea uses actual glass lenses, a rarity in sub-100 CAD clip-ons, and a hybrid metal-acetate frame.
The Nailsea uses actual glass lenses, a material rarely found in sub-100 CAD clip-on aviators where polycarbonate dominates for its lower cost and shatterproof nature — this means buyers get noticeably better scratch resistance and optical purity, traits usually reserved for sunglasses priced above 150 CAD.
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — glass_lenses_at_the_99_cad_price_pointThe hybrid frame combines acetate's comfort with metal's adjustability, setting it apart from all-plastic injection-molded frames.
The hybrid metal-acetate frame combines acetate's rich, skin-friendly feel with metal's precise adjustability and slim lines, a construction technique that sets it apart from the all-plastic injection-molded frames common under 50 CAD and aligns it with $150+ fashion eyewear.
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — acetate_metal_frame_constructionAdditionally, the glass lenses offer superior optical quality due to a high Abbe value and improved scratch resistance from higher Mohs hardness, enhancing daily usability.
- Two-piece design
Dedicated two-piece system with optical-grade acetate frame and matching clip-on lens.
Why this is supported
According to Q&A, the Nailsea is a two-piece set with an optical-grade acetate frame and matching clip-on tinted lens, not a universal clip-on for other frames.
No, these clip-ons are designed to attach specifically to the included Spitfire Nailsea frame, not over existing prescription frames. The product is a two-piece system with optical-grade acetate frames that accept a matching clip-on tinted lens.
Will these clip-ons fit over thicker prescription frames, such as those with wider temples or plastic arms?- Construction and accessories
Hybrid metal-acetate frame with rigid case matches $150+ eyewear construction.
Why this is supported
a construction technique that sets it apart from the all-plastic injection-molded frames common under 50 CAD and aligns it with $150+ fashion eyewear
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — acetate_metal_frame_constructionadds tangible carrying protection that would otherwise cost 10–15 CAD to purchase separately
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — rigid_case_and_cloth_inclusion- Brand and style
London label and aviator design match $150+ heritage brands for $99.
Why this is supported
a comparable glass-and-acetate recipe
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — heritage_eyewear_comparisontrading the legacy logo for a contemporary London aesthetic and department-store accessibility
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — heritage_eyewear_comparisondesign intent and brand cachet absent from anonymous $20-and-under clip-on aviators
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — london_label_curation_vs_no_name_alternatives- Clip-on fit
Clip-on attaches securely to the included frame only, not universal.
Why this is supported
a spring-loaded clip mechanism that grips the frame securely without marking it
How do the clip-ons attach to existing eyeglasses? Are they magnetic, spring-loaded, or do they use a clamp mechanism?- Case and cloth
Bundled rigid case and cleaning cloth add 10-15 CAD in standalone value.
Why this is supported
Catalog's deep research on alternatives notes:
A rigid designer case and microfiber cleaning cloth are included with the Nailsea — in a category where many competitors in the 80–120 CAD range ship with a soft pouch or nothing at all, this adds tangible carrying protection that would otherwise cost 10–15 CAD to purchase separately.
Alternatives for clip-on aviator systems — rigid_case_and_cloth_inclusion
Image Analysis
2 images- 01
Product
Thin silver metal aviator-style eyeglasses with slightly rounded square lenses, adjustable clear nose pads, and brown acetate temple tips; photographed at a low three-quarter front angle.
- Frame geometryThin silver metal frame with a softened square/rounded aviator lens outline and a narrow single bridge with a textured central section.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.42 · w 0.62 · h 0.33 (high) - LensesClear to very light green-tinted lenses with faint reflections and minimal visible tint.
1 region
x 0.16 · y 0.44 · w 0.54 · h 0.30 (high) - Nose padsTransparent adjustable silicone nose pads mounted on small metal pad arms.
1 region
x 0.44 · y 0.56 · w 0.10 · h 0.10 (high) - Temples and tipsSlim silver metal temples that transition to brown acetate temple tips; tips are slightly curved downwards at the ends.
2 regions
x 0.20 · y 0.18 · w 0.26 · h 0.14 (high); x 0.74 · y 0.40 · w 0.18 · h 0.18 (high) - Hinge detailSmall visible metal hinge connecting temple to front frame with a subtle angular hinge cover.
1 region
x 0.70 · y 0.44 · w 0.06 · h 0.06 (medium) - Inner temple text“SPITFIRE”
1 region
x 0.20 · y 0.20 · w 0.20 · h 0.08 (high) - Other inner temple markings“CHINA CE”Partial
1 region
x 0.38 · y 0.21 · w 0.14 · h 0.08 (medium)
Other
Studio shot on a pale light gray background with soft shadow under the glasses; three-quarter front perspective with even diffuse lighting and minor lens reflections.
- Shot compositionGlasses placed on a flat pale gray surface, photographed from a low three-quarter front angle showing both lenses and temple tips.
- Lighting and shadowEven diffuse studio lighting with a soft drop shadow beneath and slightly to the right of the glasses; faint specular reflections on lenses and metal frame.
Colors
shiny silver· metal frame#D3D2CDvery pale green-blue· lenswarm medium brown· temple tips- Frame geometryThin silver metal frame with a softened square/rounded aviator lens outline and a narrow single bridge with a textured central section.
- 02
Product
Pair of aviator-style sunglasses shown lying on a flat surface at a three-quarter angle, showing front lenses, bridge, nose pads, temples and temple tips.
- Overall geometryAviator-influenced double-bridge frame with slightly rounded square lenses and thin metal rims; temples attach near upper outer corners of the rims.
1 region
x 0.12 · y 0.38 · w 0.62 · h 0.35 (high) - Frame material and finishThin metal frame visible in a warm metallic gold finish around the lenses and on the double bridge.
1 region
x 0.14 · y 0.40 · w 0.58 · h 0.32 (high) - LensesSlightly amber-tinted flat lenses with uniform tint and thin rim profile; lenses are single-piece per side (no visible gradient).
2 regions
x 0.16 · y 0.43 · w 0.24 · h 0.28 (high); x 0.46 · y 0.43 · w 0.24 · h 0.28 (high) - Nose pads and bridgeClear adjustable nose pads mounted on small metal pad arms connected to a thin textured metal bridge; the double-bridge includes a slim top bar in gold.
1 region
x 0.35 · y 0.52 · w 0.14 · h 0.12 (high) - Temple constructionThin metal temple stems transition to thicker plastic temple tips; metal hinge pieces are visible where temples meet rims.
1 region
x 0.60 · y 0.38 · w 0.36 · h 0.30 (high) - Temple tip color and finishTemple tips are glossy reddish-brown plastic with a slightly translucent tortoiseshell appearance.
2 regions
x 0.72 · y 0.22 · w 0.20 · h 0.16 (high); x 0.86 · y 0.46 · w 0.10 · h 0.28 (high) - Small metal front rivetsSmall decorative or structural metal rivets are visible at the four compass points around each lens rim.
1 region
x 0.16 · y 0.43 · w 0.54 · h 0.28 (medium) - Interior temple text“SPITFIRE”
1 region
x 0.28 · y 0.22 · w 0.22 · h 0.10 (high) - Right temple inner markings“CHINA CE”Partial
1 region
x 0.44 · y 0.20 · w 0.20 · h 0.12 (medium)
Other
Studio product shot on a neutral light grey background with soft shadow beneath the glasses; three-quarter front perspective with even diffuse lighting.
- Shot compositionThree-quarter front view of the sunglasses placed on a flat surface, oriented with left temple nearer the top-left and right temple trailing to the right.
- Background and surfaceUniform light grey background and surface with subtle soft shadow cast by the sunglasses to the lower right.
- LightingEven, diffuse studio lighting with soft reflections on metal and glossy plastic; no strong directional highlights.
- Image qualityHigh-resolution photograph with sharp focus on the glasses and minimal noise.
Colors
metallic gold· metal frame and bridge#D3BC95amber tan· lenses#D3BC94reddish brown· temple tips- Overall geometryAviator-influenced double-bridge frame with slightly rounded square lenses and thin metal rims; temples attach near upper outer corners of the rims.