May 28, 2025
Latest Eyewear Fashion Trends

Tom Cruise’s Iconic Jean Paul Gaultier 55-9171 Glasses in Mission: Impossible

2 min read May 14, 2025 Jennifer Sikorski
tom cruise eyewear

When Mission: Impossible debuted in 1996, Tom Cruise played Ethan Hunt and was given the edgy Jean Paul Gaultier 55-9171 eyeglasses. These black-rimmed eyeglasses held more than a perfect style in that movie; they were integral to the plot. The eyeglasses contained a mini-hidden camera that transmitted video counts to a digital watch worn by Hunt, during major mission assignments, including the well-remembered CIA break-in.

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tom mission impossible

The design of the 55-9171 by Jean Paul Gaultier is a feature destined to be noted, with clear oval lenses through which gunmetal grey wire earpieces can be seen. The frames are inscribed with”55-9171″ and “J Paul GAULTIER,” proving their authenticity. The unique hinge and raised screw points add to the futuristically raw looks to the odd frames. 

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mission impossible eyeglasses

These glasses are in high demand among collectors and aficionados today. Their identity as a piece of cinematic history, along with their advanced design, makes them a highly coveted item among memorabilia collectors. Occasionally, pairs come to light for auctions, thereby providing collectors a chance to own a piece of cinema history. 

cruise optical frames

Frame Specifications:

Model: 55-9171

Frame Width: Approximately 14.5 cm

Temple Length: Approximately 14 cm

Frame Shape: Oval

Frame Type: Full Rim

Material: Metal frame with wire temples

Color: Gunmetal gray with black accents

Lens Type: Clear oval lenses

Manufacturer: Jean Paul Gaultier 

tom cruise mission glasses

Tom Cruise with the Jean Paul Gaultier 55-9171 glasses in Mission: Impossible is an apt example of fusion of fashion and function in the best sense to enter both historical cinema and eyewear design. Wanna find some similar frame? Visit EyeOns to discover the assortment of oval eyeglasses by leading brands: https://www.eyeons.com/eyeglasses/oval/.