I wrote this to post in the catalogue, but it wouldn't take it (presumably because it's too long). So I'll post it here:

Backgroud
There have been few Oakley products in the last decade that had more hype behind it than the C Six. After a couple years of teasing Oakley fans, the release was met with mixed reviews.

I suppose the biggest criticism (aside from the crazy prices) is how mundane it is stylistically. If you're waiting to see the C Six in person hoping it'll be better in real life than in pictures, you shouldn't hold your breath. The glasses don't look any better in real life than they do in pictures; what you see is what you get. If you've seen the many pics of the C Six, you've got a pretty good sense if you'll like it or not. I suspect those who like the Hijinx or Antix will probably love the C Six.

Aluminum version in real life
Having said that, I had not seen any accurate pics of the Aluminum C Six before seeing it in person. Most pictures give the impression of the aluminum being darker than it really is. In person, the aluminum portions are very silverish in colour, providing a beautiful contrast to the black carbon fiber and unobtainium parts. This was a pleasant surprise, as I was expecting a more muted black-themed frame. Simply put, it's an amazing frame colour that's more exciting than I thought it would be.

The Carbon Fiber factor
Another thing that really surprised me about the frame is the texture of the carbon fiber. It's not the typical carbon fiber look we've all come to expect and instead resembles what Audemars Piguet does with their forged carbon watch cases. Because of the milling, the carbon fiber exhibits a matte black, wood-like texture. It perfectly compliments the grainy semi-polished look of the anodized aluminum. While I suspect most Material Engineers would cringe at milling carbon fiber, I must admit Oakley did end up with a great carbon fiber look despite the possible structural compromises made.

Fit and Finish
In terms of fit, it would be at home on any medium or large-sized face. I would also say the fit is very similar to a Hijinx. But at 54g, it's a relatively heavy frame. However, that's a great thing to me. The X-metals have always been my favourite lineup, so I like heavier frames. The trend these days is to make frames lighter and lighter, so it's refreshing to find a frame that went the opposite direction. The weight also makes the Aluminum C Six seem more solid and well-built.

In terms of finish, Oakley did an amazing job. Every component was finished to a very high standard. The finish of both the aluminum and carbon fiber parts is perfect. The fit of the unobtainium flows seamlessly from the aluminum components. The attention to detail is amazing, right down to the serial number and product name etched on the beta titanium portion of the earstem.

Earstems, Presentation and Lenses
The earstems use "radial cams" for opening/closing mechanics. I don't have much say about this. I didn't find it as elegant a solution as Oakley makes it out to be, but it definitely is unique. I do like the incorporation of beta titanium into the earstems. Had Oakley somehow included magnesium (such as for the logo) into the model, they would've virtually covered their entire array of upper premium frame materials. That would've been really cool. Still, having carbon fiber, titanium and aluminum together in one frame is cool in itself.

The presentation is very nice as well, though I've always thought Oakley could've done something more unique. Still, the packaging is a nice bonus. Included in the package is a hardbook case containing a Blu-Ray disc that gives good insight into the design of both the C Six and Time Bomb II. There's also a miniature booklet offering pictures of the milling of carbon fiber. The pics have been seen on Oakley.com in various forms, so that adds nothing new. The faux wood presentation case itself is pretty big, with a small compartment that opens up to reveal an aluminum (presumably) plate featuring the C Six logo, etchings of the individuals involved in the design process, and the unique serial number (limited to 1,500 for the aluminum and 250 for the full carbon fiber version). The standard paperwork you get with every other Oakley sunglass and the Elite microfiber cleaning bag are also included. All this is housed in a black cardboard box with the product label. I haven't yet weighed the package, but I would expect it to be in the 5 lb. range.

For such a high value item, I think Oakley could've done a better job at picking out the standard lenses. I like that they went with polarized lenses, but there are much better choices than Grey and Tungsten Iridium

Conclusion
I give the C Six 4 Skulls out of 5. I should mention that I got the glasses as a gift and it has some sentimental value. I suppose I'm more generous in rating it because of this. Had I paid retail price for the product, I don't think I'd be as forgiving.

So in conclusion, I think the C Six is an amazing product....if it were free. When looking at it from a price/value perspective, its attractiveness definitely decreases. Some would say a product such as the C Six is exempt from such measurements, but that's another argument for another day.

Would I buy either of the C Six models with my own money knowing what I know now? Definitely not, but I’m grateful I got the chance to hold one in my hands.

Great review.

That's exactly the way I feel Oak and that is why I'm so torn right now. Awesome product, but not $4000 worth of awesome by a long shot!

great review... I am waiting for my aluminum C six. I got one with frame only but nevertheless, it would be good for me.. can not wait to receive it..