Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium

I feel that it is somehow incumbent on my part to come to the least favored of all X-Metal's defense. I really think the Romeos are quite nice. I think I wrote somewhere on the forum that I thought they were quite pleasing aesthetically, not from a lens shape perspective, although I do like the lenses a lot, but rather from a design angle: I like how the bridge is a large piece--an "X"---that reminds an observer of the X-metal significance of the frame as the rest of the design flows from it.

The hammer ear stems are somewhat of a plus too. I know that there are actually quite a few other Oakley-nites out there who aren't too keen on that feature of the XX's and the Romeos but I liked them so much that I have a spare pair of such temples to swap onto my X-Metal frame colored Juliet's just incase I want to add a little kick to my usual Oakley's.

My greatest complaint about the Romeos (actually this goes for pretty much all the X-Metals sans the Penny, of which I have my own minor beef) has to do with the nylon washers that X-Metal facility uses to "lubricate" the joint with joins the temple to the frame---they simply disintegrate after time if you torque them down too much; even if you don't. And good luck trying to replace them. It's a real chore to do this. I finally ended up going to TAP plastics, getting a sheet of really thin plastic, punched some washers out with a small hole punch and made my own. The Romeos have since been fine.

My Juliet's will need a tune up soon, though....Dung. The pair I wear pretty much all the time are the J123940 pair. I call them the "02" pair to correspond to the order of Juliet's I acquired.

This post will be included not only in the Romeo review but also in the X-Metal Discussion thread in the forum list.

Frame: Plasma
Lens: Fire
I have been collecting sunglasses for 30 + years now, and the Romeos captivated my attention, and I was helplessly drawn into satisfying my hunger to own a pair. The Romeo design is simply a bold piece of art, that belongs in the Museum of Modern Art. The Romeos, like most museum pieces, are fascinating to look at but not the most practical. Although I would consider myself a collector, I like to wear my sunglasses and not just look at them in a display cabinet. I have been wearing the Romeos, and find them to be a little heavy on the nose, other that a few marks the nose bombs leave on your nose, they are relatively comfortable. The lens cracking issue to me is just baggage that comes with Romeo. Once they crack, I replace them. The Romeos I have came with the original crack free x metal lenses. The first thing I did was remove them and replaced them with new Fire lenses from Oakley. I am now looking to complete the Romeo collection, with the X Metal and Titanium.

Frame: X Metal/Plasma
Lens: Black Iridium, Exovista Ruby/Fire Iridium, Exovista Liquid Metal

Once regarded by many in the community as a failure both in design, function and look is now THE most sought after Oakley piece and, 7 years post-discontinuance, easily fetches double its original retail for pieces that are far from new.

In many regards I, the owner of over two dozen X Metal pieces in various models and configurations, consider the Romeo to be the finest pair of sunglasses Oakley has ever made. While many point to the Juliet as being the company's high point-and while the Juliet is probably the most accessible and wearable frame in the line both visually and in terms of size-the Romeo comes out ahead of its flex coupler successors for a number of reasons.

First, the Romeo has been harshly critiqued because of the lens cracking issue and one could say rightly so, but the simple adjustment of taking the Romeo off and on like goggles (which I also do with the XX, XS and Juliet to preserve the flex couplers in those from needing $75 tune ups at 1 Icon) solves this issue and when you do that, now you don't have to worry about the flex coupler at all because its one piece.Second, the Romeo frame is the easiest to work with when replacing lenses because it separates...with all the other models you're spreading the metal trying to shove the lenses in.

With those advantages, does the Romeo present a problem to many wearers? Yes it does, because it is a large frame...although oddly while the frame isn't any bigger than the XS it gets knocked for being too big more than the XS does. I attribute this to the WIDENESS of the frame. I have a large head-very large...I have to tweak my Juliets so a) they fit and b) they don't look absurdly small on my face...and I almost have to use 25 t shocks to keep it locked down-on the other models I have to slice of pieces of the 15 t shocks to make the glasses loose enough.And for those that say take the nosepieces off to achieve better fit? What? I'm not clear how that would help anything unless your face is so short vertically that the orbitals stick WAY up over your eyebrows (too far is bad, although I like my eyebrows to be hidden). When its said and done though, it is a big frame and one would think that reduce demand however several factors have conspired to make this a rare model.

The Romeo never had an official recall for the spider cracks problem, however for a period the company when called by consumers about it they offered to send people any X Metal in exchange for sending in the Romeo-many opted for the XX 24K at the time as it was the companies most expensive and closest in size to the Romeo. This took a number of the frames off the street forever. The Romeo was featured in MI:II which made it desirable in the same way the Juliet became sought after due to X Men and Blackhawk Down, but the Juliet stayed in production while the Romeo did not. Finally, over time, collectors have begun to understand the Romeo's place in the Oakley/X Metal canon...both as the first in the line, as being more revolutionary and special than it was given credit for originally-plus its the most rare of all of the line because it was the first to be discontinued so its valued simply because its rare.

To my eye, the Romeo is alien looking, industrial, daring and unlike anything else...and BECAUSE of all those factors it now has a special place in my heart. With a frame that is practically indestructible, a nosebridge that requires no maintenance and an endless supply of aftermarket parts (oddly with the exception of gaskets and nosepieces), anyone who owns a Romeo can wear one pretty much the rest of their lives if they so choose. While I love the curves and the grace of the Juliet, while I love the muscular smoothness of the X Squared-I equally love the raw, unfinished almost lack of polish of the Romeo. Its what makes it special and its what makes it the cornerstone of my X Metal collection. If you have one-keep it. If you don't and you can get one, do it. You won't regret it

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridum

It took me a while to acquire this frame, mostly due to it's price point and the fact that I purchased very late in the game. Do not be put off by the price.

This frame was the first in the X-Metal line and is in my eyes the best. You could say the "Alpha" of the X-Metal family. This is such an iconic frame. The style is like no other, and even now nearing 20 years after its launch, it still attracts attention.

Despite the inherent flaw of the frames putting stress on the lenses and causing them to crack, these are my favorite frame, and a true classic.
There is a fairly easy fix that members have discovered. Forum members discovered that by beveling the edge of the lenses near the stress points, this can solve the problem. Don't know why that was never explored by Oakley, but it is what it is.

Forever a classic frame that could never be replaced.

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium
These were given to me by the owner of Sushi-go since he didn't use them any more. They are sturdy glasses but have a few downfall, aside from the drab X-Metal/Black combo. First, they are meant for big heads...very big heads. They do fit a little better if you take the nose bombs out and let the bridge rest right on your face. If you put size 75 temple shocks in, that helps a bit too. The major issue though is a design flaw. The newer X-Metals, all hinge on the nose bridge, so each lens can pivot on its own. The Romeo, however, had a solid nose bridge, and hinges on the lenses themselves, causing spider cracks on the tops and bottoms of each. This isn't going to make them shatter, but it does look ugly, and they do retail for $275 after all.

All three combos.

I really, really love these! No other frame is so intoxicating as this one! Fits a bit larger head, like mine.
If you put them on like a pair of goggles you will avoid the cracks in the lenses and you will enjoy them for the rest of your happy life!!!

Frame: Titanium
Lens: Gold iridum

I kept mine in pristine condition. My worries is that someday the titanium will eventually chip off ( first gen bone finish ). This is the least of my favorites of the Romeo 1 series because of the frame and less worn as well.

neo17

Frame: Plasma
Lens: Fire

It fits my big head perfectly. My only concern is the stress crack due to the design of the nose bridge. This is my go to shades whenever when I am at the beach. Definitely a keeper for me.

NEO17

Frame: x metal
Lens: black iridium
I absolutely love the feel and the design of the Romeo. It just screams Oakley with the "X" nose bridge and dark titanium look. They are very wide and fit my big head just fine. I could see this frame looking really big on some smaller faces, hence the alternative of the Juliet. The only flow to this sweet pair is the lens cracking at the orbital hinges. If they are put on and taken off with care the lenses can last for a long time, but if you try putting them on like a regular pair of shades they will quickly get the spider cracks. I just wish Oakley still carried lenses for these bad boys!

Frame:Oakley Romeo 1
Lens: Black Iridium

Frame: Oakley Romeo 1
Lens: Black Iridium

some of oakley's most wanted sunglasses, these are insanely nice looking and extremely hard to find. you can find them on ebay for no less than $500 USED. I was lucky enough to find 2 of these for less than $200.

no doubt i will keep these for a very long time and hopefully inherit these to my kids.

Frame:xmetal
Lens: Black

Love my Romeo 1's (MJ #2926)... I like the fit, the finish and the durability of the frame. I have never known that i could have replaced the lenses for free though :( . None the less I am still wearing it with pride.

Frame: X Metal and Titanium
Lens: Black and gold
The Romeos are Best Oakley ever!!!I love the XXs but the Romeo fit and look, at least on my big head, are better than any X Metal.The lack of replacement parts and lenses sucks but the aftermarket parts are avaliable.Yesterday I bought my third Romeo and figure I have one of the last Romeos made since it have a high serial(139456)The serial engraving is diferent from my obter Romeos beeing more close to the newer Juliets as the númbers are not so deep engraved and more shiny than the my other Romeos.
Somebody knows why the diferent engraving and How many Romeos was made??
Thanks

Frame: X-metal
Lens: Black iridium

Finally got a pair. Was fortunate enough to find it BRAND NEW, unused, in this end of the year 2011. I've always wanted X-metals, but they never fit my "big" head. (By the time I was interested in X-metals, the romeos were long discontinued already) I've tried Juliets, but they're too small on me. Was lucky enough to have met a new friend with x metal XX to try them on, and they still looked rather "small" on me. Even the new X-squared..was just a tad bit too small on me. I never got to try romeos ever, until I met up with the seller, and I liked what I saw in the mirror.

The romeos are the FLAGHSHIP of oakley. They are the holy grail. They represent what Oakley had to offer at the time, and still does. No other company attempted to do what Oakley did. The design is futuristic, has been used in movies (Tom cruise in MII2, wrestling match announcer from Spiderman 1)..I love them.

They look boss, because they are. The only flaw is that due to the design of the huge X in the middle of the frame (nosebridge area), it tends to stress on the lenses when putting the glasses on. Hence "spider cracks" are common on these frames, or so i've reserached. I'll only wear these on rare occasions, otherwise they're going on display safe and sound. And i'll haev my frogskins all other times

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium

The original and still the coolest. Just got these as the 4th member of my X-metal collection (Juliet, Penny, Mars) off ebay, for a song at $250. This thing is so raw and industrial, but the design is so well thought out. The arms were even designed to close and stop at the perfect spot, neatly. No lens cracks on this one, although there are small bits chipped off at those points which may have reduced stress and saved it from cracking. I'll be wearing this pair frequently, especially after I get aftermarket lenses (and keep those original x-metal engraved lenses safe!). MI2 style mods are in the works! Keep an eye out on ebay ;)

Frame:Plasma
Lens: Positive red
Simply the best looking frame Oakley have ever produced. I own Juliets, X-Squared and lots of others and nothing gets close to the Original Romeos. They look expensive, cool and futuristic but most of all a really properly finished pair of sunglasses.There really are no other sunglasses like them. Get a pair if you can.

Frame: X Metal
Lens: Black Iridium

Wanted a pair of Romeos since I first saw them but wimped out and waited, bought a pair of e-wire 2.1s and then a pair of Whiskers more recently, but still always hankered after these even long after they were discontinued.

Finally found a pair in pretty good nick on eBay - frames are virtually mint, still in box etc but they are 11 years old (original owner bought them in 2000). Just the beginnings of the infamous lens stress cracks, just a couple of tiny almost invisible 1mm hairlines next to the nosebridge. These fit me amazingly well, they're extremely comfortable and not nearly as heavy as they look. Coverage is excellent as is peripheral vision, quite a surprise considering the thickness of the frames. I think they suit my (big) face better than either of my other Oakleys, even though the Romeo 1 is a very stylised and quite brutal-looking design. By comparison I've tried XXs which look too 'soft' and X Squared - the latter look a bit odd, they're comfortable but I can't get on with the protruding bits of the frame at the bottom corners. Romeo 1 is a classic shape which has stood the test of time. I've got some aftermarket lenses on order and will keep the original black iridiums for 'best'. They're sunglasses - they should be worn!

It sucks that you can't seem to get the parts for them now, but we'll deal with that issue if/when it becomes a problem. They seem pretty robust aside from the lens issue - if I have to buy a new pair of lenses every now and then I can live with that.

Frame: Titanium
Lens: Black Iridium

Simply the most impressive pair of sunglasses ever! It's surprising how big they are so aren't perfect for everyone but the sculptured design makes them so unique that I can't even imagine some other company coming up with anything that rivals the amazingly sculptured look. If it wasn't for the lens stress flaw this would be simply perfect and even with that flaw I find it difficult not to make this the best item of my collection!

Frame: X metal
Lens: g26 irudium

Romeo for me is the masterpiece of oakley, frame: most beautiful I have ever seen, got mine and not seeing for nothing. I recommend anyone who has to do the same!

Frame:plasma
Lens:FIRE,BLACK,GOLD
Awsum,,, what more to say, though gettin spares gets increasingly tough, i know a guy who can still get origional lenses, though not the gaskets, anyone out there know anyone for these? coz iam not into paying over $80 for a set, and trying to make my own has never worked out, feb/22/2011

Frame: X Metal Romeo 1
Lens: Black Iridium.

Got mine here in Mexico City and they are my most valuable Oakleys in my collection. I just use them in special days, they normally are safeguarded in its Oakley X metal Vault. I just got the new Pitboss model and I think the Romeos are by far the best Oakleys ever!

Frame:X-metal Michael Jordan
Lens:Black Iridium
I got a romeo 1 x-metal frame they said it was a michael jordan edition because it has 4 digit serial number and red ear socks,anyways the romeo 1 are the best x-metal for me sleek awesome design SICK!

Frame: X XMetal MJ LE
Lens: Black Iridium
Bought mine back in 97 in Vancouver. I was studying there and as soon as I looked at htem at the store I knew they had to be mine. I spent 3 months of my scolarship to get them and skipped school for a while... no one knew about it. 13 years later my romeos are still looking great... with some scratches on the lenses and the nose pieces missing (hard to find and expensive) but they still rock!

Frame: X metal
Lens: Black iridium

If Tom Cruise wears this might as well get one. Nice frame and lens. Fits my big head and nice proportioned. Never had any web crack.

Frame: x-metal
Lens: fire iridium

worn them everyday for 6 years. last week one nose bomb fell off and i can't find a replacement. also, two of the gaskets are broken. i misplaced the original box with accessories. anyway, i thought i would just put them away and buy another pair of oakleys. i hope they re-issue them someday.
they are the coolest pair of sunglasses ever!

Frame: X-Metal Romeo 1
Lens: Black Iridum

By far the best pair of glasses I've ever had the luxury of owning. I purchased my set in San Diego in 1997 at a $275. replaced two sets of lenses prior to the discontinue by Oakley. By far a serious piece of history and art. Love my Romeo glasses, due to lack of parts and age I only wear them on special occasions. If anyone knows a good set of after market lens seller let me know. All the ones I have tried from ebay sell lens that don't quite fit (Exovista). Anyhow by far the best pair of glasses.

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Ird.
I got the first one Romeo from my aunt. After MI2 showed in the cinema. I really love this model. 7 years ago I wear it almost and the lens always broken. I've ever claim the new lens more than 7 times......So, I try to collect all the 3colours but I love X-Metal one. I really love the romeo and I have some that I haven't wear them. Thanks

Frame:X METAL/ TITANIUM/ PLASMA
Lens:BLACK/ FIRE/ GOLD/ AFTER MARKETS
I have five pairs of these babies. These are the best glasses that Oakley ever made. A design defect causes stress cracks in the lens but if you are willing to go to quality after market lens this problem can be solved with a little thinner lens. After market lens also gives a awesome selection of colors with some actually looking better than the originals. Awesome colored lens plus the best looking frames ever equals a pair of head turning sunglasses.

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium

This is where it all began: the X-Metal Romeo - the forerunner of what is today regarded as perhaps the pinnacle of Oakley eyewear. With the introduction of a proprietary titanium alloy frame (X-Metal), interchangeable nosebombs/temple shocks, and serial numbered frames, the X-Metal Romeo forever changed the way most would view the eyewear industry. Rendered on a slightly larger scale, these glasses best fit those with larger profiles. The only drawback would probably be the "cracking" of lenses due to inappropriate design/flexing of the nosebridge.

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium

This is where it all began: the X-Metal Romeo - the forerunner of what is today regarded as perhaps the pinnacle of Oakley eyewear. With the introduction of a proprietary titanium alloy frame (X-Metal), interchangeable nosebombs/temple shocks, and serial numbered frames, the X-Metal Romeo forever changed the way most would view the eyewear industry. Rendered on a slightly larger scale, these glasses best fit those with larger profiles. The only drawback would probably be the "cracking" of lenses due to inappropriate design/flexing of the nosebridge.

Frame: Romeo 1
Lens: Black Iridium

My first Oakley!I bought in a trip to USA in 2001! I paid 275 + taxs in San Diego!
The best Oakley! Here in Brazil it's too expansive!
I luv this web site and congratulations for us!
WE HAVE THE BEST SUNGLASSES IN THE WORLD!

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium

I was lucky enough to grab a pair of these off ebay in reasonably good shape. I picked them up mostly for the cool factor, and not so much for wearability. Turns out once I got replacement "stock" lenses, they were actually one of the best pairs I own. Good field of vision, and excellent at protecting my eyes.

Only gets 4 stars because I'm scared to wear them, for fear of cracking my new lenses.

Frame: Xmetal
Lens: Black

Given to be my cousin from Las Vegas, worn out lenses and in bad condition, i'll restore this piece of O history to it pristine condish, wonder if there are parts here in the Makati Philippines main office.

I love this Romeo. The best the oakley ever made.

Frame: XMetal
Lens: Black (Xmetal sign)


Cant understand why people gives it less than 5 starts. This is the most perfect engineering that Oakley has ever made about sunglasses.

I dunno why they didnt fix the crack lens problem and continue with them in production. the new metal glasses sucks compared to the first ones.

Frame: x-metal
Lens: black iridium

Having bought two of these first at $275 in 02 and the second
being willingly robbed after it was discontinued at $325.
I have become very dissappointed at oakleys ending support
of these great shades. It was love at first sight. I've worn them
everyday since I first laid eyes on my first set. the Romeo 2 seems uninspired like a chopped juliet. Ive given up on finding
genuine Oakley lens replacements and have decided to collect the
aftermarket lenses. The frames are nothing short of amazing and
I hope someday Oakley may revisit this design. Its a shame that
Oakley doesn't think of long term ownership of any of their products. Progress and pushing the envelope development wise is
fine, but forgeting those who are loyal to specific products is
a shame.

Frame: Titanium
Lens: Gold Iridium

My very first pair of X-Metal.
I would wear them everyday if I were not so much afraid about cracking the lens again. Something like six month after buying them, I noticed that there was some kind of distortion near the upper articulation, where the nosebridge binds the orbitals. My optician told we that it was quite common with that model. Knowing that they were under warranty for a year, I've worn them hardly until I sent them to consumer service for a lens replacement. Then after that, I kept them secured in the display case to not damage the lens again.
But for the year I've been wearing them, I can say they have been one of the best eyewear I've ever worn.
Although they are a bit heavy, the rubber at the nosebridge and above the ears are large enough to distribute the weight and make them feel comfortable. The coverage is also perfect and the gold Iridium is very good for sunny days.
Beside its unique design, the Romeo are also the only model to have X-Metal etched on the lens, which can be a detail for most of people, but surely a plus for a collector.
I really wish I could still wear them without being concerned by the lens cracking.
If I should keep one and only one pair of sunglasses, it would be my Romeo 1, even if I don't wear them anymore.

I should rate it 4 skulls for the lens crack, but I can't resolver myself to not put 5 skulls because they are for me the symbol of what Oakley was (is ?) : Half art, half science.

Frame: plasma
Lens: fire
i bought a 2nd hand romeo with plasma frame fire lens, the condition of the frame is 100% but the lenses are so worn out, chipped and has the famous crack on top of the lenses where the screw is placed. but this pair is really outstanding, very amazing and incomparable. i went to oakleys main office here in manila philippines and guess what....... they all have replacement lenses all colors(black,fire,gold) had it replaced yesterday including the washers and rubber couplings it like this romeo was reborn and the first gen of fire lens has an orange hue compared to juliets fire lens which makes it a stand out.. though i know beleive that the crack issue with romeos came from the design flaw it is still the best glasses to wear. it is expensive though to buy original replacement lenses for it it is really worth it and something to take care of. i wish oakley had fixed this issue with the lens cracking and redesign it without loosing the romeo look, that is the sad part that i dont understand why oakley did not totally fix the design when they have all the tools engineering and lab to have it fixed.

Frame: Titanium
Lens: Gold Iridium/Fire Iridium

My best pair of Oakley's. Had replaced the lenses though several times because of the cracks on the screw corners.. (you Know what I mean). Got myself recently a pair of Juliets but has no serial number, living my romeo in a display box because it has a serial number. Never was a collector of Oakley's, but because of the cracking issues, I just can't stand wearing them in the long run.

Great Pair though, would want to buy another pair of Gold iridium if there was any availability.

Frame: 1 x-metal and 1 plasma
Lens: blk irid on black and fire on plasma.

Love these but a little bling for corporate life. wanted them when I first saw these in 97 and finally got them as a present to myself after my promotion. Never had a problem with lenses cracking but they do scratch easily. Had to get rid of my favorite plasma one due to the scratches. The screw needs to be tightened every once in a while but that's not a big problem. They are a bit heavy but you feel what you paid for, kinda like a Brietling watch...lots of substance. IMHO, much nicer looking than the juliet with all that mess at the nose bridge. And don't get me started on the Romeo 2. Totally different look, feel, and style. Oakley should had ket the originals and named the 2's something like Half-X or half something because thay are literally half of what the original Romeo represents.

Frame: x-metal
Lens: gold iridium

Was trying to get a custom juliet and bumped on a romeo 1 frame with no lenses, in mint condition. The owner of the store sent them to oakley, got fitted with gold iridium ("x-metal" engraved!!) lenses and i bought them in the price of the lenses!
These sunglasses are just perfect, the x-metal/gold iridium combo is a subtle beauty. State of the art material and design, lightweight and strong. Yet some care is needed not to bend the frame at the connection spot(to avoid teh famous crack in the lenses).
Try using a 1/5 temple shock and do not let other people with big heads trying them on!

A rare frame with lense combo. A typical case of never-take-the-sunglasses-of-your-head when you are outside!

Frame: plasma
Lens: orange prototype
Truly an X metal classic. To me, feels just like wearing a juliet but the outside appearance with the big "X" for the nose bridge just kicks ass. There have been rip offs of cheap brand using a big X for a nose bridge but there can only be 1 and original X metal of a romeo 1. to me, this is the x metal flagship

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iriduim
Was lucky to get these for 100$USD when they first came out. Yes they require sumone with a big head and will give a somehow retro look for the size. Only a few people look good in them.
The lenses usually crack because of the design.
I like the way they put the logo and serial in the nosebride.
Very easy to take apart and swap nosebridges with another color =P.

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black


I bought a pair the year they got out , and I lost them like a dumb *** I took me about 5 yrs to forgive myself so I finaly got back into the best line of Sunglasses Ever and bought my self a few Juliets and Finaly got this incredible work of Art + brand new lenses , there is simply nothing like it . Unfortunetly they have this weakness , the famous cracks , so mine are in the x-metal vault with the screws almost removed from the frame to make sure nothing happens to the lenses and I have only worn them once or twice since I have them .

Frame: titanium
Lens: gold iridium
great glasses awesome look! turns heads wherever u go. firm grip that stayed put despite vigorous activity. kinda heavy though so couldn't really wear them for too long.

Frame: X-metal
Lens: Black Iridium

These are soo awesome! Finally I found a pair of these in excellent condition! These are the best X-metals!
They are a bit big, but still very good. Also a bit heavy on the nose, but what the heck... These are such well designed glasses. The fluid lines and yet quite agressive. If you want a pair, you should at least have the X-metal one. These were the first X-metals, so they're definatly a must for every collector.

Frame:X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium

My uncle has these for around 10years now and the Romeo is still going strong. The coat finish is a little worn but that's it. This is truly a durable pair and will last you a terribly long time.

Frame: titanium
Lens: gold iridium

I seem to be one of the few to actually wear the romeo on a regular basis. I try to wear these at least twice a week. the large lenses look right at home on my face and i hvent had a probem with the cracking yet. I am very carefull when taking them on and off to not stretch the arms out. if the lenses do crack ill buy more so i can wear them even more. the only reason i gave these a 4 is it would be nice to have a few more lense chooices

Frame: X-metal
Lens: Black Iridium

One of the truly iconic designs produced by Oakley. It's a shame it has that design flaw where the lenses crack but this design in my humble opinion is far more impressive than the romeo II and has an almost "engineered for a purpose" feel to it, my favourite feature are the grooves where they're designed to flex, they lend the sunglasses a sculptured look. They're not so much sunglasses but a triumph of vision, design and engineering

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium

these glasses were my first in the x-metal line! i got them in trade for some other glasses. I love the design i really wanted the juliets but i couldnt pass these up for the deal i got. I had to send them to Oakley to get repaired for the spider cracks oakley fixed them for free and replaced all the rubbers that were missing all i paid was 10$ so i guess in total i paid 40$ and i couldnt be Happier

Frame:

Lens:
FOUR STARS

Right now, I own 4 pairs of these. One is #992 MJ, two are X-Metal black and one is Plasma Fire.
( I owned 3 MJ's at one time.)

I believe the MJ pairs sit lower on my face because the nosebombs sit wider than later pairs. I have also heard that the MJ lenses do not fit later pairs and vice-versa.

Yes, they are large, but provide superior sun coverage if you can pull it off. I find Stright Jackets large, but Gascans don't look freakish on me. The drab color of the X-Metal/Black pair serves to tone down the look of a pretty extreme looking pair of sunglasses. The Plasma/Fire pair is very flashy, with the large, bright fire lenses.
To avoid spider cracks: 1. Do not torque the orbital screws too tightly and 2. Use the smallest size temple shocks that are comfortable; spreading the earstems apart when putting them on and taking them off can cause cracks. You should also remeber to lift them off your head instead of yanking them frontways off your face, also avoiding putting excess outward pressure on the earstems.

Frame: Plasma
Lens: Fire

My first review was a 2, back when I wore my glasses. Now I mostly collect, so the score goes up based on asthetics. The design lends to lens cracking, but left alone, they are an attractive piece. I was able to clean up a pair I got for cheap and they look almost brand new.

Frame: Titanium
Lens: Gold Iridium

I got a pair of these back in 2001 quickly after trying on one that belonged to a friend. Nothing like walking around with shades just like those exploding glasses from MI-2. Several compliments were thrown my way when I wore these. These were cool and all, but they are definitely more for form rather than function. On the down side, I had to return this twice to Oakley while still under its warranty period, so they replaced the cracked lenses (due to that top screw hinge issue) at no charge. After getting them back a second time, I just mostly put them back in its box and haven't worn them much since 2003. By the way, if you leave these shades in an unvented car left in direct sunlight, do not put them on your face right away...unless you want seared ears and nose! Lastly, I talked to Oakley USA about the lens cracking issue last week (June 2006), and they said I had an option to trade them in for any X-Metal model except for the Romeo 2 after paying about a $50 processing fee. So, I opted for the 24k/24k X-Metal XX! I figured I might as well go for the most expensive one I'm allowed.

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black

The original Romeo was a breakthrough in design, and created a whole new way to look at sunglasses. I got a very very early pair (#0190) from a rep, and they are really more sculpture than they are glasses. Unlike most consumer products, I can see all kinds of imperfection, where you can actually see that they are metal, cast into place. Very interesting to study.

I did wear them for a while and was careful with them, and luckily haven't seen any of the cracks that plague these early versions. I don't wear these anymore, as they are just too rare to endanger. When I did wear them, they were slightly large for my face but stayed on very well. Coverage is great. The look is now classic Oakley-crazy.

These are really iconic collectors items now. Noting else like them existed before they appeared, and for that they deserve admiration.

Frame: X Metal
Lens: Black

These have awesome eye coverage and will definitely block anything from getting to your eyes. The only drawback, is that it is a bit scary putting these on because of the lens defect problem that Oakley had. But, I have 3 pairs of these and have had no problems at all.

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Ir.

Just acquired another two pairs of these guys through my collecting endevours and spend a good fifteen minutes admiring the architecture once more.

I guess I've come to regard the Romeo 1 as more of an art piece than as a sunglass that you can wear for practical use, seeing as the flex action from orbital top to centerpiece pretty much nixes this design in that area. Respectfully to those who don't give that much homage to Romeo I, I disagree. I still can't quite get over how aesthetically pleasing this sunglass design is. The art piece mentality extends to Overthetop, Medusa goggles, and Zero 0.3(p). There are others that I might be missing too. Juliet, Mars, and the others don't fall in this category because one CAN wear them pretty much everyday. Woudn't it be dandy if Romeo 1 was just robust as Juliet....

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium
I have two pairs of X-Metal/Black Romeo’s (one is the MJ LE), and it’s because they are by far the most beautifully sculpted of the six X-Metals. The nose bridge is what stands out the most; it is obviously following the theme of "X"-metal. The fit is also brilliantly perfect, the only parts of the glasses that touch your face are the nose bombs and the ear socks, while the orbitals wrap them selves around all points of your field of vision; it is the embodiment of the word "perfection".

Frame: Titanium
Lens: Gold

No other manufacturer comes close to the design on these.
Unmistakable Oakley, aesthetically alone, never had any lens issues with mine to date, lens changing is as easy as juliet. The small grommets tend to spread and look a tad unsightly.
For larger heads, so don't fit my pinhead that well

Frame:X-metal
Lens:Black Iridium
Finally got the last ones, ive had the other 2 for a while and have been finding it difficult to get a hold of these. what can i say the original X-metal in the classic combo.

look simple but very badass. shame they shouldnt be worn due to the lens cracking fault.

best to keep them mint in a display.

Frame: X-metal
Lens: Black Iridium
These are the exploding glasses in mission impossible 2. After seeing this movie I had to get a pair. The frame will only fit bigger heads. These are the most well built, coolest glasses ever made in the history of mankind. It would be a miracle if oakley or anyone could top this frame style. The black iridium and x-metal frame looks sweet. Don't take any negative reviews of this glasses to heart. If you ever get a chance to see these beauties in person you will be convinced. The only con is the spider cracking design flaw. However, the later versions of the romeo's have been fixed of this flaw.

Frame: X Metal
Lens: Black Iridium

The first of the X Metals.

The Romeo's appearance is very aesthetically pleasing. It is quite large, but sits relatively well on my Asian face, although the lenses do tend to fog up due to the fact they sit way too close too my face.

The fit is pretty wide, but temple shocks can modify this aspect to suit individual persons. The lenses are nice and big, so there is no chance of light leaking in. There is that design flaw though, where the lenses meet the nosebridge; the spider at the points after a while so you shouldn't bet on keeping them pristine over regular use. In fact, it's this very flaw that makes me recommend against wearing it for daily usage.

If you are looking for a great pair of sunglasses to wear, there are others who would fit the bill to a much better degree. I you sway more to the collecting side of things however, the Romeo would get the full five stars.

Frame:Plasma
Lens:Fire Iridium

These are beautiful, they have a second Gen plamsa frame but super red first gen fire.
they look so good im gonna be tempted to wear the even though its risky with the design fault.
quick get these begore they are gone for good.

Frame: x-metal
Lens: black iridium
Just got these in and love the look of them. Looking to add some more aggressive lenses, but even with the black iridium these get you the looks. For me the fit is comfortable, I think the temple shocks are a size too small as they don't fit too tightly but they do stay put and make them comfortable for a full day of wearing them.

Frame: Titanium
Lens: Gold
Awesome glasses. Led the way for the X-metal family. The light coverage on these are really nice. I also thing they are very comfortable to wear. Try to get a pair while they are still out there.

Frame: Plasma
Lens: Fire

Romeo 2 out 3. This pair just came in today. Brand new in box 000324! 1st Gen plasma looks a lot like titanium. The latter is a darker frame when compared to side by side. Fire lenses are smoking! I'll give it test run over the next few days. Keep posted. The heat is on!

Frame: Plasma
Lens: Fire, Gold, Black
These are really cool. At first I didn't like them all that much, but when I put them on they started to grow on me. So I picked up a pair. These are great for larger heads.

Frame: Plasma
Lens: Fire Iridium

This is the must have pair for X-Metal family, they are discontinue now. The only problem is lenses crack. Others than that, they are very cool eyewear and looks good on most of people. You'll love the them!

Frame: TI
Lens: Gold
I love the looks of the Romeo, The big X for the nose piece is awesome. I think it was made for bigger faces, but looks good on just about anyone. The lenses cracked after a few years of use, but can be replaced.

Frame: X-Metal and Titanium
Lens: Black Iridium and Gold iridium

I wanted these for years since 1997 when they first came out and after about 3 years, i got them for christmas. my favorite design, i just love how they form the "X" and there is not an oakley symbol or logo on them and everyone that doesn't know them asks, what kind of glasses are those, they are truly a piece of mad science

Frame: Titanium
Lens: Gold

These are the strongest frames Oakley has ever released IMO. They just feel so durable! They complement larger faces, those of you with smaller heads need not apply. These are also very comfortable on me, even more so than the Juliet. Sadly, these have been discontinued in favor of the new Romeo 2.0. Grab 'em while you can!

Frame: X-Metal (MJ LE)
Lens: Black Iridium
I was hesitant for so long about getting a pair of Romeos for the simple fact that I thought they would be way to big for my face. Boy was I wrong! I love the way these fit my face, just as well as the Juliet, I guess that makes me one of the lucky few. Any way, I got #3121 MJ edition from a very cool fellow o-review member, and I am overly impressed. Now I just wish I had come to my senses earlier and bought a Plasma/Fire Romeos when I had the chance, oh well.

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black
A great example of Oakley design. I remeber when I first got these I thought as a poor college student am I really spending $245 on these? (I'm pretty sure that's what they were at the time) It was totally worth it. There's nothing like them, especially at that time. Talk about a head turner and conversation peice. I don't wear them that much anymore, because they are kind of heavy and get uncomfortable if I wear them too long.

Frame: Plasma
Lens: Fire Irridium

Finally broke down and bought my first pair of Romeo's...these things are very cool and very comfortable. They are the Oakley Flagship design, recognized and envied even by the O-uneducated... Everyone knows Romeo's. They are a little heavy for all day wear but I can see getting all 3. Becoming more and more scarce.

Frame: All 3
Lens: All 3
I bought the first pair of Romeos that came to Calgary. I couldn't believe how they fit my head. There was nothing like them back in '97 and you could almost make that claim today...almost. I was fortunate enough to latch onto pair 4013 of the Michael Jordan Limited Editions with the red unobtanium. I can't say enough good things about the style of the original Romeo. When I heard about the method in which they were made, I knew I had to have them. Of course, there are obvious design flaws. Interestingly, I only came to know of the spidering issue once I became an O-review member. I have never had (knock on wood) any problems with any of my 3 pairs. I think they are the model that put Oakley way out ahead of the pack and for that I think they deserve special recognition. All hail the Romeo!

Frame: Plasma
Lens: Fire Iridium

Snagged myself a pair of these for my birthday (#008904) just because they were starting to get scarce on ebay and I thought I ought to have a pair.

I really like the style of the orbitals, and how big the actual piece that makes up the nosepiece is, and Fire Iridium is a nice lens to look through, and you really can't lose with the plasma finish.

My only complaints are that the lenses are pretty big, and look a bit big on me, so these are definitely for people with bigger faces. Also I'm a bit iffy on the style of nosebombs... they leave circular marks on my nose sometimes.

Also, if you aren't aware of the Romeo frame defect, since the entire face piece is connected as one rigid piece with out any flex capacity like the Juliet or XX, it can cause stress cracks in the lenses after a while. But if that does happen, Oakley USA will replace them with a pair of Juliets or XX of equal or lesser value. Oakleys superior customer service prevails again!

Overall these are a really solid pair of glasses, and if you like the way they look, you'll love them even more in person on your face. Can't go wrong with this classic design unless you have a small face.

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium

When I first saw the Romeos I knew I had to have a pair. This is the model that really made me the Oakley fan I am today. My first pair of Oakleys were the M Frames. But the Romeos took my love for Oakley to a higher level. I can't really be too judgmental about them; again I know there are design issues/flaws. But for me I was looking at this pair just for the visual aesthetics not for wear/performance. Even though for $275+ there shouldn’t be many/if any flaws. But I still think they are still and awesome looking pair of Oakleys!!

Frame: Plasma
Lens: Fire Iridium

Tried Romeos on lots of times, when I was going through the X metals deciding which I liked best. I just don't like the style. The lenses just look weird, and the fit is quite poor (though other X metals don't fit me brilliantly, they're much better than Romeo).

They've only recently been discontiunued, but I miss them already. They may not be perfect, but they're damn good looking. The Romeo isn't for everyone, but they fit my face very nicely. They also started the premier line for Oakley, and for that they're getting a 5-star rating from me.

Frame: Plasma
Lens: Fire Iridium

Have to agree with x-metalman, these are one of the best pairs I own. They look incredible, especially with fire lenses and haven't had any trouble with them since I got them. Romeo 2s? Not a patch on the first in my opinion, should have been called Juliet 2 or Half Juliets. :)

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium
What's with all the bad reviews? These are great glasses! I absolutely love these. Romeos were my very first pair of Oakley's and I can't say enough about them. They do have a few flaws, and yes the Juliet is a better frame, but hey! These were released in 1997 and were the first of it's kind. Cut them some slack. If it wasn't for these, there would be no Juliet.

Frame:X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium
I remember seeing these on my friend, an Oakley rep at the time, and was just blown away.
I had the second pair in the UK after him, and I just could not get over the design (or the price!)
These are made for a larger face than mine, but I still love them for what they are.(and what they have become)
Realistically these are a bit to heavy and rigid to wear and are a world away from my Zero 0.1 which I wear every day.
I still give them 4 stars for being the original X-Metals that started Oakley on the way from just making quality sunglasses, to pieces of art.

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black

I have an early version (w/ red earsocks), but from the reviews here, I doubt much has changed. Being the first X-Metal frame, I give the Romeos all the props in the world. The look and fluid styling are sweet. The fit and comfort leave something to be desired. A bit heavy on the nose (not the most comfortable nosebombs) and pinching earstems. A sweet pair of shades, but I can't bear to wear them for extended periods of time. Plus, I just don't appear to look as good as Tom Cruise pulled them off in MI2.

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium, Fire Iridium

First saw them in the MI2 teaser trailer, i didn't know what brand they were I had to have them.... I tracked them down bought them a month later. Definitely my favorite pair of oakleys. Just picked up Fire Iridium replacement lenses so i could swap them out whenever I wanted.

Frame:Titanium
Lens:Gold Iridium

Im torn between these and my XX X-metals.
I think the Romeos look better in terms of weirdness and uniqueness but the XX X-metal are way more comfortable and look very cool in a subtle way. The flexability is an issue because they dont have much but luckily mine are not showing any signs of cracking after 15 months of occasional wear.
I still suggest you get a pair if you can just because they look great, but you probably wont wear them much.

Frame: Titanium
Lens: Gold
Hat's off to this design. Enter a whole new Era of sunglasses. 1997 was the year Oakley took the sunglasses to a whole new level. The X-Metal series...a league of it's own..dare not to compete. The Romeo is the Driver of all X-Metals. My Devotion/Obsession started with this piece. Feel the smoke ooze out once you wear it. Give Metallurgy a new meaning!

Frame: X-Metal
Lens: Black Iridium
These were essentially the very sunglasses which sparked my interest into Oakley. Since I first saw them in MI2, I wanted to try them in person and hopefully own a pair. Thus, after saving up, I finally purchased a pair while on a trip to Vegas. The first thing that struck me was the sturdiness of the glasses; it was downright heavy. However, this wasn't really a problem to me, and it seemed to fit my face ok. After wearing them for a while, I noticed that only real problem with the Romeo was that it was pretty plain (likely due to the color combo I had chosen), and after the Juliet's came out, it just couldn't compare to them aesthetically. But all in all, these are still great glasses which I wear from time to time (though they are overshadowed indefinitely by my Juliet's).

Frame:
Lens:

I never found this to be that great. The design of the nose bridge iss terrible. It looks like it was meant to flex, but not like the other X-Metals. Very large and still rough sliding them back across your head. I guess Oakley needed to start somewhere and this did launch a great line.

Frame: X Metal
Lens: Black
The sleek lines and the striking X metal frame matches the somber reflective Black Iridium lenses, Perfect for business meetings, but still cool enough for casual days.

Frame: Plasma
Lens: Fire
The classiest among the X Metals - the Romeo 1's design could never be matched by the Romeo 2. This color combo gives a new meaning to bling. This pair never fails to turn heads due to their sweet elegant lines, and that large bulky X is just so wicked. The coolest pair in my collection.

Frame: Titanium
Lens: Gold

The Grandaddy of them all. The Raw-boned and Bruiser like frame is a look that not anyone can carry off. An alpha male lion on the Serengeti could pull it off. By itself as a specimen, I'm sure all you guys can appreciate it. I guess that's why they decided to make the Romeo 2.0 more subtle.
For a guy who benches close to 400lbs, subtle aint my cup of tea.

Frame: x metal
Lens:origanally black

these glasses were oridannly my dads he gave them to me awhile back but they did not have lenses because he had perscription lenses put into them i would like to put the original lenses back in them specially cause they have alot of sentamental value to me oakley sent me here can anyone help me out on my options?