Most expensive glasses in the worldRudy Project made of titanium costs 950 euros

Julian Schultz

 · 26.01.2026

It doesn't get much more exclusive than this: Rudy Project sells the new Performance 40 for a whopping 950 euros.
Photo: Rudy Project
To mark the company's 40th anniversary, Rudy Project is launching the world's most expensive racing bike glasses. The Performance 40 is made of 3D-printed titanium, is limited to 100 pieces and costs a whopping 950 euros.

The Performance 40 is a tribute to a former cult model: The Super Performance was the Italians' first sports eyewear in 1986 and came into the limelight when Moreno Argentin (Italy) won the World Cup. The focus is also on the new edition - especially due to its incredible price of 950 euros. To achieve this, Rudy Project uses a modern 3D printing process to manufacture the limited collector's item. The frame with its striking grid structure is said to weigh just 36 grams.



The Super Performance as the original model is linked to a legend: Company founder Rudy Barbazza is said to have offered Argentin a sponsorship while playing pool before the 1986 World Cup road race. "Wear these glasses tomorrow. Win the world championship. And I will support you," Barbazza allegedly told the classics specialist. The deal was sealed with a handshake - and after his triumph in Colorado Springs/USA, Argentin had a new partner at his side.

The Italian ex-professional Moreno Argentin (left) won the Road World Championships in 1986 with the original Performance 40 model from Rudy Project.Photo: Rudy ProjectThe Italian ex-professional Moreno Argentin (left) won the Road World Championships in 1986 with the original Performance 40 model from Rudy Project.

In addition to the exclusive design, the luxury glasses are characterised by a laser-engraved signature on the mono lens, an adjustable nose pad and a high-quality collector's box. For those with the necessary spare change: The Performance 40 is limited to 100 pieces and can only be ordered via the Rudy Project website.

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Julian Schultz is a qualified sports scientist and trained sports journalist and is responsible for testing complete bikes. From competition bikes to gravel bikes, he tests the latest models and keeps his eyes open for the latest trends. This includes the Tour de France, where the test editor has been on the lookout for technical details and stories from the paddock since 2022.

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