Our aim is to satisfy all of our customers by giving them the best frames and lenses on the market at the best possible prices. We want our customers to be confident in the service we provide so that they will return and recommend us to their friends and family.

Look through our list of Frequently Asked Questions to understand more about our products and services.

GENERAL

Q: What do I need to place my order? Back to top

A: All you need is your prescription details to include when you place your order.

A:

1. Go to your local opticians and get an eye test. The optician must - by law - provide you with a copy of your prescription, and should not insist or imply that you need to buy your glasses from that store. 
   
2. Get your prescription, place your order with us, and SAVE MONEY.
   
3. And one more thing; we recommend you ask the optician to include your pupillary distance measurement (PD) in your prescription. Don't know what that is? Read the FAQ on pupillary distance and how to measure it. Back to top

A: We do not have expensive high street stores and eye testing equipment. We have cut out the middlemen and yet we still supply many of the frames available in the High Street.

We also have a very lean set-up so we can work on lower overheads than other internet opticians.

We try to source our frames and lenses in the UK as far as possible. We use the same frame and lens manufacturers and glazing lab technicians as traditional opticians. THE ONLY DIFFERENCE IS THE LOW PRICE WE SELL THEM. Compare our prices and see for yourself.  Back to top

Occasionally we have special offer designer frames at massive discounts. Keep an eye on our Home Page and check your emails. We will send emails to all our registered members.

Unfortunately these have to be sold on a first come first served basis.  back to top

A: Yes, we offer a 'Try at Home' service on all our normal ranges and when you select a frame and complete your details this option will be available for you. You can also call us on 08451 16 39 37 to arrange a trial.

You can try a maximum of two frames for 14 days, one of which can be a designer model. To cover the labour, postage and packing we charge a non-refundable £3.75 per pair.

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A: We check all the glasses we supply but agree that sometimes you will need some minor adjustments. If this is the case most opticians will adjust your glasses for a small fee.

If you have any more problems, contact us.  Back to top

A: No, the prescription is written differently and would be of no use if used to make glasses.

While your contact lens and eyeglasses prescriptions may seem the same, they usually have differences.

You must have your eyes tested and a prescription issued specifically for glasses. It must be less than 2 years old, or less than one year old if you are over 70 years of age.

These time limits  are recommended by joint committees of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, the Association of Optometrists and the Federation of Ophthalmic and Dispensing Opticians.

A: Click this link to take you to them, and  return here to see our Mission Statement and Guarantee.

A: We start your order the day you place it. We send glasses through "Recorded Signed For" Royal Mail services. We try to get single vision lenses in the post within 5 days and therefore you should have them within 7 working days, however we would be most disappointed if you were not wearing your glasses within 14 days.

Varifocals and Bifocals will take a little longer as the process is far more complicated, in all cases we guarantee 21 days delivery but aim for 14 days. We will also e-mail you if there is likely to be a delay.

1. Phone, if we are so busy that we can not respond immediately leave a message telling us when it would be suitable to call and we will call you back with your answer or even help you put your order through on the website. 

2. If you wish we can answer your question by e-mail. E-mail us with your question via the contact us page and you will get back your answer within 24 hours.

3. Fax us with your question by downloading the contact form available to download from the contact us page we will answer within 24 hours. 

PRESCRIPTION

Q. How can I read my prescription? Back to top

A: It is not as hard as it seems. Just take a few minutes to read below and you should be able to understand what is written on your prescription.

We have 2 examples of prescriptions below.

Please note the RIGHT eye is always on the LEFT side of the prescription:

RIGHT EYE: Sph: ,  Cyl: -0.75, Axis: 95 no prism or base and LEFT EYE: Sph: +0.50, Cyl: -0.50 and Axis: 60 no prism or base

Below this is the ADD: +2.25 ADD R+L. and (+2.50 VARIS)

The lower prescription has:

RIGHT EYE: Sph: -5.25, Cyl: -2.50, Axis: 2 1/2 no prism or base and LEFT EYE: Sph: -5.00, Cyl: -3.50 and Axis: 177? no prism or base

Below this is the ADD: +2.25 ADD R+L.

Comments: BUD 11mm

WHAT TO EXPECT

Name	What it means	Expect a range between	Abbreviations	Important to make sure of:-
Sphere	power; the "overall" strength of your glasses	-10 to +6 or Zero, plano,  infinity or	SPH or sph infinity	Either  +(plus) or -(minus) on  prescription 1 is an 8 on the side this means infinity and is on the drop down menu
Cylinder	Your astigmatism (if you have any)	-4 to +4. Zero, plano or infinity	Cyl or CYL	Also remember + or - If this is blank on both sides then leave blank - the Axis will also be blank
Axis	The direction of your astigmatism	0 to 180	Axi	This is the angle that your lenses need be placed to correct your astigmatism.
Addition	What you need for close and near distance added to your prescription	+0.25 to +3.50 R+L right and left	ADD +2.25 R+L, see above prescriptions Also +2.50 VARIS	Only expect positive readings   ADD +2.25 R+L, (see above prescriptions) Also (+2.50 VARIS)
COMMENTS	Various data which we may need to know to make your glasses	BUD 11mm	N/a	Can be anything the optician thinks we should know, however it is very unlikely to be of significance for your glasses purchase-but please copy in.

Sphere (SPH)    Short-sight is corrected by negative (-) sphere values, long sight by positive (+). If the sphere value for one eye is negative, then the other is usually also negative and vice versa. If there is only this value on your prescription, leave all other fields blank. The top prescription has on the RIGHT side of the prescription at the top is infinity (an 8 on the side 8).

Cylinder (CYL) The cylinder indicates whether  you have astigmatism (visual distortion). The higher the value the stronger need for correction. When you enter a cylinder reading you will expect an axis measurement as well. No cylinder reading - no axis reading. If the field is blank do not enter anything here.

Axis (AXI) The axis value is the angle of the astigmatism correction. If the field is blank do not enter anything here

Reading Addition (ADD)   If there is an ADD value it is the correction for reading or intermediate glasses. If there is only one ADD power enter it, If there are two add figures enter them exactly as written in the additional information area. I

Pupillary distance (PD)  is the distance, in millimetres, from one pupil to the other. A correct PD will ensure that the lenses are correctly positioned in relation to your eyes. We always advise that you ask your optician for your PD, you can also measure it yourself or we can do it for you, however in many surveys it has been found that an average pd of 63 will suffice for almost all spectacle wearers using single vision lenses. For Varifocals and Bifocals see the FAQ - to measure your own PD see the FAQ.
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A: You can phone us and we will talk you through it.

Complete your order and print out the invoice.  Fax or post a copy of your prescription to us with the printed order form - we will do the rest and send the prescription back to you with your glasses.

Our fax number and telephone number can be found on the contact us page.

A: No, the prescription is written differently and would be of no use if used to make glasses.

While your contact lens and eyeglasses prescriptions may seem the same, they usually have differences.

You must have your eyes tested and a prescription issued specifically for glasses. It must be less than 2 years old, or less than one year old if you are over 70 years of age.

These time limits  are recommended by joint committees of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, the Association of Optometrists and the Federation of Ophthalmic and Dispensing Opticians.

YES. However, where prescriptions are over plus or minus 5.00 SPH (sphere) and plus or minus 4.00 CYL (cylinder) we will contact you after  you have placed your order if we feel that your choice may result in a less than perfect pair of glasses. Our recommendations in this case will ensure that you get the best possible service for the lowest possible price. If you do not wish to proceed on the basis of our discussion we will not proceed with your order and will refund your full payment.

We will not supply you with glasses unless we are certain that the glasses we supply you are as perfect for you as possible.

A: Your PD is the distance between your pupils.

Whilst technically it is best to make your glasses with a measured PD this measurement is not critical in most cases. In fact in surveys over many 1000's of participants it has been established that the average PD of 63 is suitable for all but the strongest prescriptions when dispensing single vision lenses. We can make your glasses using an average PD measurement. This works very well, there is no eyestrain and glasses made with this average PD will not harm the eyes.

People with strong prescriptions and whose pupillary distance is significantly different from the average may have problems using an average PD measurement. If you are unsure please contact us.

If we consider that your glasses would be better with a measured PD we will contact you. We have a reliable way of measuring PD and will explain how this works.

In the case of  bifocal and varifocals the PD and the positioning of the centre of the lens with the eye is quite critical and we will need to establish the positions of the centres of your lenses and your PD. Click here to see how we measure your PD.

A: We can indeed - providing they are made to a prescription that's still in date.

Just send in your glasses with a completed mail order form. Once we've read them, we'll send them back to you - all for £10.

When you send your glasses, we need you to certify on the order form that:

• You are in possession of a written prescription given by a registered medical practitioner or registered optometrist.
• If you are over 70 years old - that your prescription is less than one year old.
• if you are under 70 , that you got it within the last two years.
• That the spectacles you are sending are made to that prescription.

Just tick the relevant boxes on the mail order form which you can find on our contact us page.

A: We can indeed - providing they are made to a prescription that's still in date. Just send in your glasses with a completed mail order form downloaded from this site. Once we've read them, we'll send them back to you - all for £10.

However, when you send your glasses, you need to certify on the order form that:

• You are in possession of a written prescription given by a registered medical practitioner or registered optometrist.
• If you are under 70  years of age you certify that your prescription is less than two years old.
• If you are 70 or over, you got your prescription within the last 12 months.
• That the spectacles you are sending are made to the prescription above.

A: While your contact lens and eyeglasses prescriptions may seem the same, they usually have differences.

You must have your eyes tested and a prescription issued specifically for glasses. It must be less than 2 years old, or less than one year old if you are over 70 years of age.

These time limits  are recommended by joint committees of the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, the Association of Optometrists and the Federation of Ophthalmic and Dispensing Opticians.

A: Yes. Prescription Sunglasses come with a dark tint.

We offer all the normal tints, Brown, Grey or Green all giving full UV Protection.

We also supply Photosensitive Sun-Reactive Lenses and Transitions which are clear in normal lighting conditions and turn almost as dark as sunglasses in strong sunlight. They also have a 100% UV filter.

You may wish to have polarised lenses which reduce glare by filtering the light going through them, thus reducing glare and reflection (great for sportsmen especially anglers).

Q: What should I do if my glasses need adjustment? Back to top

A: We check all the glasses we supply but agree that sometimes you will need some minor adjustments. if this is the case most opticians will adjust your glasses for a small fee.

If you have any more problems contact us.

A: If you have a pair of comfortable glasses you will probably find, using a magnifying glass three measurements, like this 54 17 135 the first and second figures will be separated by a rectangle (see an example below). The numbers represent the lens diameter, the bridge width and the arm length.

Whilst they do not have to be exactly the same as your comfortable pair the closer your glasses are to these figures the more likely you will to be comfortable with your new glasses.

LENSES

Q: What lenses do you use in your glasses and what are they made of? Back to top

A: Our lenses are made of various formulas of Optical Plastic.

Standard Index 1.50 lens is our most commonly used lenses.

This plastic is very tough and far lighter than glass, it is available for all prescriptions between SP+5.00 and -5.00. This material produces a lens that will give one of the sharpest images possible on the retina and reduces distortion.

Hi-Index 1. 61 AS Aspheric Lens

This plastic is very tough and far lighter than glass, it is RECOMMENDED  for all prescriptions over SP+5.00 and SP-5.00. This material is up to 30% lighter than an equivalent lens produced in Standard index 1.50 and is up to 20% thinner.

Hi-Index 1. 67 AS Aspheric Lens

This high quality lens whilst being approximately 25% thinner and lighter than the Hi-Index 1.61 lens  is chosen for it's amazing thinness and lightness. A definite for prescriptions with SPH of 5.00 and more. High quality materials make it the ideal lens.

Hi-Index 1.74 AS Aspheric Lens 

Currently the thinnest and lightest of available plastic lenses It is much thinner and lighter than the 1.67 lens (and about 50% thinner and lighter than our standard lens). We recommend this lens if you want the best option available. A must for those whose prescription for SPH is over 7.00.

Polycarbonate lenses approximately 1.6 AS

Polycarbonate lenses are the same thickness as our thin lenses but far stronger. They should be considered for use with frameless glasses, or by people in active pursuits because they are more resistant to shattering. These are tougher than our normal lenses but in our normal frames although they may be tougher than normal lenses they do not make them safety glasses and should not be considered as such.

THE CHART BELOW IS FOR ILLUSTRATIVE PURPOSES ONLY.

The top lenses are + (plus) powers and the lower lenses are - (minus) powers.

This chart is only illustrative of relative thicknesses.

A: Plastic lenses are softer than the traditional glass lenses but considerably lighter and safer. Although the 1.60, 1.67 and 1.74 Hi-Index lenses have some in-built protection against scratching. We always recommend that you protect your glasses with any scratch-resistant coatings available when you select your lenses.

A: We supply

• Scratch-resistant coatings. 'Helps to avoid knocks and bumps'
• Anti-reflective coatings. 'Excellent for driving (especially at night) and using the computer'
• Scotchgard. A combination of the above two which has the benefit of water resistance.
• UV400 protective coating. 'Sunscreen for the eyes'

A: YES, we have a department specialising in Varifocals and Bifocals. SEE INSTRUCTIONS BELOW. Back to top

VARIFOCALS AND BIFOCAL INSTRUCTIONS

The fitting of varifocals and bifocal lenses have to be very accurate for the glasses to be successful.

 We have devised two procedures where we can achieve this.

The first process is;-

GUIDE TO TAKING YOUR PHOTOGRAPH

1. Order your frame and glasses
2. We will send you the frame
3. Take a picture wearing the glasses
4. Post the glasses with a picture or e-mail the digital picture to us.
5. We will use the picture to make your glasses and send them to you within 10 days.

You will need to take or have someone take your photograph wearing your frame.

Take care to ensure that:-

1. The camera lens should be at the same height as your eyes.
2. Your eyes should be naturally open and clearly visible.
3. The frames should be resting on your nose in a natural and comfortable position and must not cover your eyes.
4. You must face forward, looking straight at the camera.
5. Keep a neutral expression, your mouth closed (no grinning, frowning or raised eyebrows).
6. Full head with nothing covering your face.
7. These pictures do not have to be flattering and we promise not to show anyone!!!!! Just between you and us.
8. If your photo is similar to the ones above we can take all the accurate measurements that we need to prepare your glasses
   
   

   This method also gives you the chance to see if you like the frames you have chosen. If you think they do not suit you return select another frame and we will send the new frame to you. However, this second pair is a trial and we would charge for a trial pair of frames.

   When you have the photograph you can digitally send it by e-mail or print it out - best size 100x150 or postcard size.

   The second process is that you send us your current or spare pair of varifocals or bifocal glasses and we will use them to get your accurate details.

   Where you wish to use your current frame

   1. Send it to us (by insured post) with your prescription and a print out of the completed order form.
   2. We will read and copy the prescription and measurements 100% accurately
   3. We will return your frame complete with your new Varifocals

   Our Top Quality Branded varifocals will cost you less than half the normal price in the high street and substantially less than anywhere else and you have a 28 day unconditional money back guarantee. Back to top

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   Q: Can you supply lenses for my own frame? back to top

   A: Yes we can supply lenses fitted to your own frames.

   We will check your frames to ensure they are suitable for re-glazing if not they will be returned to you.

   Whilst we take care to ensure your frames are treated with the greatest care by our technicians plastic frames become brittle after 3 years and metal frames can suffer from metal fatigue. We can not guarantee that your frame will still stand up to having the lenses replaced.

   If they break in the process (very unlikely) we can accept no responsibility, however we will offer to replace them with the nearest suitable frames in our display at an extremely competitive discount.

   A charge of £7.50 will be added to the cost of the lens to cover administration fees etc.

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   PAYMENT
   

   Q: What are the available methods of payment? Back to top

   A: We accept all major credit/debit cards through Worldpay and Paypal which means Visa, MasterCard, Diners, American Express, JCB and all the major credit cards, debit cards and local payment schemes like Maestro, Laser, Electron and more. All in your own local currency and language - wherever you are in the world.

   We can also take personal cheques and postal orders with orders sent in the post.

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   Q:Is the payment page secure? Back to top

   A: Our payment system uses Worldpay and Paypal. Millions of people around the world are using WorldPay and Paypal as the major ways to pay - as they are trusted and secure.

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   Q: What is your refund and guarantee policy? Back to top

   A: We give you an unconditional guarantee to ensure that you are satisfied with our products and service.

   If there is any problem with anything we supply call us within 5 days of receipt and one of our directors will sort it out.

   • If you are not 100% satisfied with your order one of our directors will contact you and discuss how we can make sure your order meets the highest standards of quality and value for money to your complete satisfaction.

   Any of our directors can-

   • Exchange your frames

   • Replace the lenses

   • Refund your money

   Should you need to return glasses please go to contact us to obtain a return form.

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   Q: What are the postage and packaging costs? Back to top

   A: There is a £3.95 postage and packaging charge per order. Glasses are sent 1st Class via standard Royal Mail Packetpost. If you buy two or more pairs of glasses you will benefit from free delivery for the second and subsequent purchases!

   Our glasses' packages fit through most letterboxes, all deliveries are receipted for your protection.

   Special delivery can be requested at a cost of £6.50.

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   MISSION STATEMENT

   Our aim is to satisfy all of our customers by giving them the best frames and lenses on the market at the best possible prices. We want our customers to be confident in the service we provide so that they will return and recommend us to their friends and family.

   Just call and speak to one of us.  We will listen to you and then recommend the most suitable remedy.

   We can not write down each and every situation and or action to satisfy it, each of our customers is an individual and no two situations are the same, needless to say, we will guarantee that you will be satisfied if you have a problem.

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