Oakley Minute vs. Minute 2.0 Sunglasses – Ultimate Guide

We review the Oakley Minute Sunglasses plus break down the differences between the Minute and Minute 2.0!

History and Background

First released in 1998, the Oakley Minute sunglasses are a classic design that led Oakley’s lineup through the late 90’s and 2000’s. Between 1998 and 2011, Oakley ultimately released three variations including the Minute first generation, Minute 1.0 and Minute 2.0.

Keep reading as we review all three generations of the Minute Sunglasses. Plus we’ll answer your top questions including where you can still buy them!

Oakley Minute (1^st Generation)

Introduced in 1998, the 1^st Generation Minute was only made for a single year. It’s also important not to confuse the 1^st Generation Minute with the Minute 1.0 (the designation used for the 2^nd Generation).

Frame and Design

The 1^st Generation Oakley Minute features a full-frame design with a moderate wrap. The frame itself is made of lightweight O matter material. However, the O Matter material on the 1st generation is the original formula which can be brittle over time. This formula was replaced with a more durable version around 2000.

Overall this is a smaller frame. And Oakley also made sure the smaller frame size did not alter the level of protection or optical clarity offered by the Minute.  The tapered oval lens shape is sleek and the protruding bridge adds a little Oakley oomph to the style. The Minute also features Unobtainium earsocks on the temples for added grip.

This is also one of only a few styles (including the Racing Jacket and Moon) of O Matter frames to feature a Jet Intake port instead of any traditional icon. The Jet Intake port consists of an oval hole where the icon would normally be situated. Ultimately this feature only lasted a year.

Lenses

The Oakley Minute 1st Generation lenses are standard Plutonite for impact resistance. They also feature XYZ Optics for clarity.Additionally, prescription lenses were available for the Minute when first released. Since the Minute 1st Gen was released in the late 90’s you won’t find contrast-enhancing Prizm lenses.

Oakley Minute (2^nd Generation)

Frame and Design

The 2^nd Generation Minute, released in 1999 is also known as the Minute 1.0. This frame changed a few aspects of the style while maintaining the smaller proportions and sleek wrap.

First is one of the biggest changes. Gone is the Jet Intake port. Instead it’s replaced with a traditional true metal icon. Plus you’ll also see Oakley name printed across a slightly flatter bridge.

Lenses

Compared to the first generation the Minute lenses are still made of impact resistant Plutonite offering XYZ optics. Just like the 1st gen, Minute 1.0 polarized lenses and Iridium coatings are available in a variety of colorways.

Ultimately the Minute 1.0 was released in a variety of colorways and special editions. Keep reading for our complete listing of Minute colorways.

Oakley Minute 2.0

Frame and Design

Finally introduced in 2007, the Oakley Minute 2.0 is a major update to the line. Still maintaining the small full framed design, the Minute 2.0 offers an updated style.

The Minute 2.0 still features a full O Matter frame, so the sunglasses remain light and comfortable. The frame has gone from a very sleek and minimal style of the earlier iterations to a sturdier look with thicker ear stems. With a moderate wrap the lens is deeper and slightly more squared than the other Minutes.

While the you won’t find the Oakley name on the Bridge, the O icon remains on the earstems. Plus you’ll continue to see Unobtainium ear socks on the Minute 2.0.

Lenses

The Oakley Minute 2.0 Lenses continue to be made of Plutonite featuring HDOptics for clarity. Additionally Polarized, Iridium, Transition and Prescription lens options were all available when originally released.

This generation also features a Hydrophobic coating to keep it clear of dust, sweat, water, and oils off of your lenses.

Original Colorways

We’ve included a complete list of Oakley Minute colorways across all 3 variations below for reference:

Are Oakley Minute Replacement Lenses Available?

Yes, even though you can no longer buy Oakley Minute replacement lenses directly through the brands website. You can still find Minute replacement lenses through aftermarket suppliers. It’s a bit harder to find replacement 1st Gen Minute lenses due to their rarity overall, but not impossible. Check out our complete guide and comparison to the best aftermarket lens suppliers.

Where to Buy Oakley Minute Sunglasses?

All three versions of the Oakley Minute Sunglasses are not discontinued. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t still buy them. While you won’t find them on Oakley’s website, you can buy them on aftermarket exchanges like our Oakley Forum exchange areas and eBay.

Also be sure to check out our guide to buying rare and discontinued Oakleys for your complete options.

Final Thoughts

The Minutes are a classic pair that arguably laid the foundation for a number of the modern sports pairs today. While they don’t stand out compared to today’s Kato or Plazma frames, they were an innovative design at their peak. Because of this, they’ll always be a collectible pair, especially the first generation frames which are rarer.

Do you have a pair of Oakley Minute Sunglasses? Or have a question about your Oakleys? Join the largest online Oakley community and let us know in the thread below!

OakleyBoss

Created this site because of the lack of a place for the Oakley Community to talk. Feel free to Message me any time with feedback for the site, tips o...

• View all 281 articles