Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing Glasses | Varifocal | Payment | Guarantee | Ex Pats | Prescriptions | Lenses | Shipping | Returns
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Can I make nosebridge adjustments?
In non-plastic frames you can usually adjust the nosebridge slightly by bending the pads outwards or inwards to suit your face.
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What is my PD?
The PD – or Pupillary Distance - is the distance between the centre of one pupil to the centre of the other pupil. Prescription glasses are made so that the distance between the optical centres of the glasses' lenses, is the same as your PD. The PD varies from person to person but once you are an adult, your PD does not change. Therefore, as an adult, if you have had it measured, then it will still be the same, even if your spectacle prescription has changed.
Your PD is measured either during the eye test or when prescription glasses are ordered. Obviously we cannot measure your PD over the internet, so it is best to make sure your PD is included in your glasses prescription.
If you are unable to provide your PD to us, do not worry. We will take an average male or female PD, based on 1000’s of real PD measurements, and use this value when we make your glasses.
You can, of course, measure your own PD. However, bear in mind that, when you measure your own PD, you may not get the same result as an experienced optical professional. We recommend that you use the measurements taken by an optometrist or an optical dispenser whenever possible
Your PD is measured either during the eye test or when prescription glasses are ordered. Obviously we cannot measure your PD over the internet, so it is best to make sure your PD is included in your glasses prescription.
If you are unable to provide your PD to us, do not worry. We will take an average male or female PD, based on 1000’s of real PD measurements, and use this value when we make your glasses.
You can, of course, measure your own PD. However, bear in mind that, when you measure your own PD, you may not get the same result as an experienced optical professional. We recommend that you use the measurements taken by an optometrist or an optical dispenser whenever possible
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Why can't I enter my exact Axis measurement?
The selection of our axis measurements is currently made in steps of 5. With a value such as yours, you may either enter the closest value possible from our list or simply leave it blank and provide it later on in the ordering process. As you progress through your order, you will encounter a screen where you will be able to enter the actual value in a box for Additional Information. We will pick up the values you enter here and use them as we glaze your glasses.
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Why is my Add Too High to Enter?
We have a limited range of Near Add values that cover the vast majority of prescriptions. It may well be that you are trying to enter the Sph value from your full Near Prescription.
If this is the case, then you will be trying to enter an incorrect value in the Near Add box on our web page.
To determine the correct Near Add value to use, please subtract the Sph value for the Distance Prescription from the Sph value for your Near Prescription. You should then find that the resulting value will be selectable from the list of values which we provide for you in the Near Add drop-down box on our web page.
Do this for both eyes (the values are normally the same for each eye). You may, of course, email us (or send in the post!) a copy of your prescription and we will happily do this for you if you wish.
If this is the case, then you will be trying to enter an incorrect value in the Near Add box on our web page.
To determine the correct Near Add value to use, please subtract the Sph value for the Distance Prescription from the Sph value for your Near Prescription. You should then find that the resulting value will be selectable from the list of values which we provide for you in the Near Add drop-down box on our web page.
Do this for both eyes (the values are normally the same for each eye). You may, of course, email us (or send in the post!) a copy of your prescription and we will happily do this for you if you wish.
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Roughly how long does it take to deliver my glasses?
Depending on your exact requirements, if we have the frame and lenses in stock, we can typically make your glasses within a day or two. They are dispatched by Royal Mail Frist Class delivery (you can opt for Recorded Delivery if you wish). There is also a ‘Special Delivery’ (next day) postal service available (in the UK) to you for added speed of delivery if you wish.
Specialist lens requirements may take around a week or so depending on the specific lens types needed by the client.
However, there are a number of variables that can affect the speed at which we are able to fill your purchase order for prescription glasses. In general, the more complete prescription information you are able to provide upfront, the more quickly we’ll be able to get your glasses to you! We may need to contact you if we’ve received incomplete prescription information or require additional clarification. Please keep an ear to your 'phone and an eye on your inbox after you place your order, as we will generally follow up with you via telephone and/or email should we have any questions about your order.
Specialist lens requirements may take around a week or so depending on the specific lens types needed by the client.
However, there are a number of variables that can affect the speed at which we are able to fill your purchase order for prescription glasses. In general, the more complete prescription information you are able to provide upfront, the more quickly we’ll be able to get your glasses to you! We may need to contact you if we’ve received incomplete prescription information or require additional clarification. Please keep an ear to your 'phone and an eye on your inbox after you place your order, as we will generally follow up with you via telephone and/or email should we have any questions about your order.
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How do I take my Varifocal Photograph?
The key thing to taking the photograph is that you need have someone take it for you! Self-taken photos on webcams and phones are always unsuitable.
The most important factors in taking your acceptable varifocal photograph are:
• The photo must be taken from at least two metres away and zoomed in to produce a clear head and shoulders picture.
• Keep the subject’s eyes at the same level as the camera lens, ensuring that the camera is directly in front of the subject.
• The photograph must be in focus and clear (as much as is possible) of any reflections which may preclude a clear view of the subject’s pupils (watch out for reflections from bright objects, e.g., windows, white walls, camera flash, the sun, etc.).
• Minimum size of the photo should be normal postcard size (you may even send it in a larger format – either electronically or printed)
The most important factors in taking your acceptable varifocal photograph are:
• The photo must be taken from at least two metres away and zoomed in to produce a clear head and shoulders picture.
• Keep the subject’s eyes at the same level as the camera lens, ensuring that the camera is directly in front of the subject.
• The photograph must be in focus and clear (as much as is possible) of any reflections which may preclude a clear view of the subject’s pupils (watch out for reflections from bright objects, e.g., windows, white walls, camera flash, the sun, etc.).
• Minimum size of the photo should be normal postcard size (you may even send it in a larger format – either electronically or printed)
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“Top Tips” for Taking Your Varifocal Photograph.
• Your photograph must contain a head picture, completely in focus so that we may clearly see your eyes.
• Avoid using the flash as this increases the likelihood of glare on lenses.
• Avoid strong sunlight as this makes the pupils considerable smaller and may make you squeeze your eyelids, resulting in a shadow over your eyes.
• Daylight is best, such as from a window, as this can provide as equal a balance as possible to avoid glare on lenses and shadows on the face.
• Make sure you have a neutral expression - closed mouth (not laughing or frowning).
• You must be looking straight at the camera (not tilted head) and show your eyes open (no hair in eyes or face).
• Your pupils should be clear and not obscured by reflections.
• Your photo needs to be well lit so that we can see your eyes clearly
• Your glasses should fit comfortably and naturally.
• We need the image to be of a good physical size - postcard size as a minimum. Please send via email as the original size it’s downloaded from your camera. Do not re-size to make it smaller.
• Avoid using the flash as this increases the likelihood of glare on lenses.
• Avoid strong sunlight as this makes the pupils considerable smaller and may make you squeeze your eyelids, resulting in a shadow over your eyes.
• Daylight is best, such as from a window, as this can provide as equal a balance as possible to avoid glare on lenses and shadows on the face.
• Make sure you have a neutral expression - closed mouth (not laughing or frowning).
• You must be looking straight at the camera (not tilted head) and show your eyes open (no hair in eyes or face).
• Your pupils should be clear and not obscured by reflections.
• Your photo needs to be well lit so that we can see your eyes clearly
• Your glasses should fit comfortably and naturally.
• We need the image to be of a good physical size - postcard size as a minimum. Please send via email as the original size it’s downloaded from your camera. Do not re-size to make it smaller.
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How thick will my lenses be?
Lens thicknesses depend on a number of factors such as your prescription and the size of the frame your lenses are going into. For ‘plus’ sphere values, most of the lens thickness may be found around the centre of the lens, whilst with ‘negative’ sphere values, the thickness manifests itself at the edges.
High index lenses reduce this thickness by various degrees, depending for how thin you go. For instance, a 1.6 lens is thinner than a 1.5 (standard) lens and a 1.67 lens is thinner than a 1.6.
Here’s an illustration to demonstrate what I mean : http://www.spex4less.com/lens-nav-images/IndexComparison1.jpg.
High index lenses reduce this thickness by various degrees, depending for how thin you go. For instance, a 1.6 lens is thinner than a 1.5 (standard) lens and a 1.67 lens is thinner than a 1.6.
Here’s an illustration to demonstrate what I mean : http://www.spex4less.com/lens-nav-images/IndexComparison1.jpg.
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How easy is it to get my prescription?
Your Optician should, by law, have given you your glasses prescription at the time of your last sight test. If you have mislaid your glasses prescription your Optician should give you a copy.
If you want to take advantage of a special or glasses offer from us, you may order your glasses and then send us a copy of your new glasses prescription as soon as you receive it.
If you want to take advantage of a special or glasses offer from us, you may order your glasses and then send us a copy of your new glasses prescription as soon as you receive it.
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The glasses prescription seems complicated - what if I have trouble entering it ?
If you are unsure about how to enter your prescription, we can help you out if you give us a call here on 0151 632 6611. One of our trained staff will give you all the help you need - and even take the order for you over the 'phone if you so wish.
You may also email or post us a copy of your prescription and we can do the rest for you if that makes it simpler.
The prescription may appear complicated at first but it is really quite simple. There are four elements:
1. Sphere (Sph)
2. Cylinder (Cyl)
3. Axis (Axis)
4. Reading Addition (Add)
Some prescriptions will not require a value to be entered into each box. If it is blank on your prescription you will not need to enter it on our website.
The most important thing to check in each box is whether the lens value has a plus + or minus - sign.
You may also email or post us a copy of your prescription and we can do the rest for you if that makes it simpler.
The prescription may appear complicated at first but it is really quite simple. There are four elements:
1. Sphere (Sph)
2. Cylinder (Cyl)
3. Axis (Axis)
4. Reading Addition (Add)
Some prescriptions will not require a value to be entered into each box. If it is blank on your prescription you will not need to enter it on our website.
The most important thing to check in each box is whether the lens value has a plus + or minus - sign.
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What if I enter my glasses prescription or other information incorrectly?
Don't worry! We obviously check every glasses prescription before we make them - if anything looks wrong, we will contact you.
If you suddenly realise you may have given us the wrong information, just email or 'phone us to let us know and we'll double-check everything for you.
If you receive them and they don't seem right we will correct the error, even if we have to remake the glasses - even if your optician made the error.
And don't forget - we have a 100% money back guarantee. If there is anything at all that you do not like about the glasses you can return them for a full refund.
If you suddenly realise you may have given us the wrong information, just email or 'phone us to let us know and we'll double-check everything for you.
If you receive them and they don't seem right we will correct the error, even if we have to remake the glasses - even if your optician made the error.
And don't forget - we have a 100% money back guarantee. If there is anything at all that you do not like about the glasses you can return them for a full refund.
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Can I use my contact lens prescription for my spectacles?
No. Contact lens prescriptions are not the same as spectacle prescriptions.
However, you may still place your order online (or over the telephone!) omitting the spectacle prescription until you are able to obtain it from your Optician. Once you have it you can pass it on to us by email, mail or 'phone.
However, you may still place your order online (or over the telephone!) omitting the spectacle prescription until you are able to obtain it from your Optician. Once you have it you can pass it on to us by email, mail or 'phone.
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Why are your prices so low?
Quite simply - we do not have the same overhead costs as high-street opticians. Our laboratory and showroom is not located on the high-street and consequently we avoid the high rental and council charges associated with such locations.
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What are the lenses made of?
Spectacle lenses are available in a wide range of materials. These are recognised by the refractive index such as 1.5, 1.59, 1.6, 1.67 and 1.74. In essence, the higher the index of the material, the thinner and lighter the lens will be in a given prescription.
There are several types of lens materials:
* Standard 1.5 index plastic – This material is also known as CR39 and is a conventional plastic lens. Light and durable, it can be supplied with all treatments and comes with a scratch-resistant coating as standard.
* Thin 1.59 index polycarbonate – Polycarbonate is as practically as thin as our thin 1.6 index plastic lens and 12% lighter as standard. The construction of polycarbonate material also makes it extremely strong which is why it is used in sports.
Polycarbonate is also shock resistant, over 12 times more so than standard 1.5 index plastic lenses. Because of its strength and shock resistance polycarbonate is also used for safety spectacles.
* Thin 1.6 index plastic – Up to 20% thinner than standard 1.5 index plastic and up to 25% lighter.
* Thinner 1.67 index plastic – On average 15% thinner than the 1.6 index plastic and on average 15% lighter. This lens can be supplied with all treatments such as UVA and UVB protection as well as scratch-resistant and anti reflective coatings.
* Ultra thin 1.74 index plastic – The thinnest and lightest lens material available at Spex4less. On average 10% thinner than 1.67 index plastic and on average 10% lighter. This is the ultimate material choice for higher prescriptions. This lens can also be supplied with all treatments.
There are several types of lens materials:
* Standard 1.5 index plastic – This material is also known as CR39 and is a conventional plastic lens. Light and durable, it can be supplied with all treatments and comes with a scratch-resistant coating as standard.
* Thin 1.59 index polycarbonate – Polycarbonate is as practically as thin as our thin 1.6 index plastic lens and 12% lighter as standard. The construction of polycarbonate material also makes it extremely strong which is why it is used in sports.
Polycarbonate is also shock resistant, over 12 times more so than standard 1.5 index plastic lenses. Because of its strength and shock resistance polycarbonate is also used for safety spectacles.
* Thin 1.6 index plastic – Up to 20% thinner than standard 1.5 index plastic and up to 25% lighter.
* Thinner 1.67 index plastic – On average 15% thinner than the 1.6 index plastic and on average 15% lighter. This lens can be supplied with all treatments such as UVA and UVB protection as well as scratch-resistant and anti reflective coatings.
* Ultra thin 1.74 index plastic – The thinnest and lightest lens material available at Spex4less. On average 10% thinner than 1.67 index plastic and on average 10% lighter. This is the ultimate material choice for higher prescriptions. This lens can also be supplied with all treatments.
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Do you supply bifocal or varifocal lenses for your glasses ?
We supply bifocal lenses when they are recommended by your Optician. We can also provide you with varifocal glasses - this require us to send the frames out to you first with a calibration sticker on one of the lenses so that we can take accurate measurements of how the glasses will fit.
Complete information on how we do this can be found on our Varifocal Glasses page - it may seem a bit complicated at first, but we have refined this process over thousands of pairs sold, with a very high success and satisfation rate.
Complete information on how we do this can be found on our Varifocal Glasses page - it may seem a bit complicated at first, but we have refined this process over thousands of pairs sold, with a very high success and satisfation rate.
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What shape are your bifocal lenses and do they look like normal Bifocal glasses?
We supply the D28 bifocal as standard. This is a sideways "D" shape on the lens which gives a wider reading area than standard round shaped bifocals.
However, we also carry a range of specialised multi-focal lenses which include different shapes and sizes for other bifocal segments that may suit your needs. For instance, we are able to supply 'blended' bifocal lenses (a round segment without a hard reading edge)and 'executive' bifocals (the reading segment is across the total width of the lens) if required.Please take a look at our Specialist Lenses page or contact us for more information.
However, we also carry a range of specialised multi-focal lenses which include different shapes and sizes for other bifocal segments that may suit your needs. For instance, we are able to supply 'blended' bifocal lenses (a round segment without a hard reading edge)and 'executive' bifocals (the reading segment is across the total width of the lens) if required.Please take a look at our Specialist Lenses page or contact us for more information.
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What payment methods do you accept?
We accept most major credit/debit card payments such as VISA, Mastercard, Google Checkout, Paypal and Amex. We also accept most cheques, banker's drafts and postal orders.
We can also accept a Spex4less gift card in part payment for your glasses. Some terms and conditions apply for gift cards being redeemed under the Spex4less Reward Program.
We can also accept a Spex4less gift card in part payment for your glasses. Some terms and conditions apply for gift cards being redeemed under the Spex4less Reward Program.
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Do you accept NHS vouchers?
No we don't at this point in time.
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Is my payment information secure?
Spex4less cares deeply about our customers’ privacy and security! We employ both digital and physical methods to protect your data. All transactions that take place on our website occur securely using a Secure Socket Layer (SSL).
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What are the postage and packaging costs?
Spex4Less works hard to keep it's postage & packing costs as low as possible in order that we remain competitive and save you money. We currently charge a flat rate of £3.95 to ship anywhere in the UK, using Royal Mail First class post, with Airsure and International Signed For rates applicable to the rest of the world.
Some of our customers have asked us to offer trackable shipping options. In response to this, we are now offering, for a small extra charge, trackable Royal Mail Recorded and Special Delivery should our customers so wish. However, please note that Special Next Day Delivery does not imply that your glasses will be manufactured any quicker (our glasses delivery schedule will give you an expectation of when they will be dispatched) - rather, it is a shipping option for our customers to select for added peace of mind with regard to security, speed of delivery and trackability after dispatch from Spex4less.com.
All our UK glasses bought online are shipped by First Class Royal Mail Packet post as standard. There are options provided for Recorded and Special delivery. Our Designer range ship by registered post, and International orders for glasses ship requiring a signature for delivery.
We will also gladly use a courier of the customer's choice at their own expense and arrangement. But we do not refund our own shipping costs if this option is taken up.
Some of our customers have asked us to offer trackable shipping options. In response to this, we are now offering, for a small extra charge, trackable Royal Mail Recorded and Special Delivery should our customers so wish. However, please note that Special Next Day Delivery does not imply that your glasses will be manufactured any quicker (our glasses delivery schedule will give you an expectation of when they will be dispatched) - rather, it is a shipping option for our customers to select for added peace of mind with regard to security, speed of delivery and trackability after dispatch from Spex4less.com.
All our UK glasses bought online are shipped by First Class Royal Mail Packet post as standard. There are options provided for Recorded and Special delivery. Our Designer range ship by registered post, and International orders for glasses ship requiring a signature for delivery.
We will also gladly use a courier of the customer's choice at their own expense and arrangement. But we do not refund our own shipping costs if this option is taken up.
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Do you accept insurance payments?
While we do not accept payments by insurance, many customers are able to obtain reimbursement for a portion or all of the cost of their prescription glasses through their insurance provider, and we are happy to provide a receipt for this purpose.
We recommend that you call us on 0151 632 6611, Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm, or email us at info@spex4less.co.uk once you receive your order if you would like to obtain a receipt.
Please note that our glasses are priced as a package that includes both the frames and the lenses, so your item total will not include a specific amount for the frames and lenses separately. The only exception to this will be if you have purchased non-standard lenses, which will show up as a separate line item on your invoice.
We recommend that you call us on 0151 632 6611, Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm, or email us at info@spex4less.co.uk once you receive your order if you would like to obtain a receipt.
Please note that our glasses are priced as a package that includes both the frames and the lenses, so your item total will not include a specific amount for the frames and lenses separately. The only exception to this will be if you have purchased non-standard lenses, which will show up as a separate line item on your invoice.
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Where can you ship glasses to?
We ship worldwide using Royal Mail at the point of dispatch. We will also gladly use a courier of the customer's choice at their own expense and arrangement.
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What is your 100% No-quibble Guarantee?
Here at Spex4less we insist that you are totally happy with both our product and service, so much so that if there is any problem with your glasses, we will sort it out!
Even if you love your new glasses and your neighbour or friend say's "they don't suit you" we will exchange them or refund your money which ever you prefer.
Here's our guarantee statement:-
If for ANY REASON you are not 100% satisfied with your order, including any errors on your part, we will either:-
Exchange your glasses for another pair, even if you don't like the colour!
Replace the lenses, even if you've made a mistake on your prescription!
Replace the lenses, even if your optician has made a mistake on your prescription!
Even if you love your new glasses and your neighbour or friend say's "they don't suit you" we will exchange them or refund your money which ever you prefer.
Here's our guarantee statement:-
If for ANY REASON you are not 100% satisfied with your order, including any errors on your part, we will either:-
Exchange your glasses for another pair, even if you don't like the colour!
Replace the lenses, even if you've made a mistake on your prescription!
Replace the lenses, even if your optician has made a mistake on your prescription!
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What is your guarantee and return policy?
If you’re not 100% satisfied with your glasses (whether they’re prescription, non-prescription, or sunglasses), we offer our famous 100% no-quibble guarantee.
If you do not like your glasses return them to us within 30 days, we will either credit your account for the total cost of the glasses or exchange them making any price adjustments for you.
You can return your glasses for a full refund or exchange - however, we would much sooner work with you to ensure that you are happy with your order.
30-day return policy starts from the day you receive your order.
If you do not like your glasses return them to us within 30 days, we will either credit your account for the total cost of the glasses or exchange them making any price adjustments for you.
You can return your glasses for a full refund or exchange - however, we would much sooner work with you to ensure that you are happy with your order.
30-day return policy starts from the day you receive your order.
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What is your returns policy?
If you’re not 100% satisfied with your glasses (whether they’re prescription, non-prescription, or sunglasses), we offer our famous 100% no-quibble guarantee.
If you do not like your glasses return them to us within 30 days, we will either credit your account for the total cost of the glasses or exchange them making any price adjustments for you.
You can return your glasses for a full refund or exchange - however, we would much sooner work with you to ensure that you are happy with your order.
30-day return policy starts from the day you receive your order.
If you do not like your glasses return them to us within 30 days, we will either credit your account for the total cost of the glasses or exchange them making any price adjustments for you.
You can return your glasses for a full refund or exchange - however, we would much sooner work with you to ensure that you are happy with your order.
30-day return policy starts from the day you receive your order.
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Do you sell Gift Vouchers?
Yes we do! They make ideal gifts for anyone to use towards the cost of their glasses at Spex4less. You can buy one via this link: http://www.spex4less.com/acatalog/Gift_Voucher.html.
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How long does it take for me to get my glasses?
Tracking Your Order
Tracking the progress of your order?
Please allow up to 15 working days for delivery of your new glasses.
If you need to track the progress of your order you can e-mail
your enquiry to info@spex4less.co.uk please include your
order number in the email.
Glasses Delivery Schedule:
Please allow up to 15 working days for delivery of your glasses.
We aim to deliver most orders within 7 days with straightforward, single-vision glasses often being dispatched within 24 hours. However, each pair is individually crafted to your specification and may take longer as per the following schedule.
Standard Frames
Most standard frames with single vision or bifocal lenses will usually be dispatched within 7 days, or sooner. Please allow a little longer for multi-focal and coated lenses.
Rimless Frames
Rimless glasses are usually dispatched within a week. Please allow 15 working days for delivery of rimless glasses.
Designer Frames
Designer frames are usually dispatched within 15 working days. However, some models & colours may take a further 10 days or so if out of stock. (We will always notify you of any delays with designer frames and give you the option to exchange or cancel)
Specialist Sports Frames & Goggles
All specialist sports glasses and goggles are dispatched within 15 working days.
Safety Glasses
Prescription safety glasses are dispatched within 5 to 10 working days.
Tracking the progress of your order?
Please allow up to 15 working days for delivery of your new glasses.
If you need to track the progress of your order you can e-mail
your enquiry to info@spex4less.co.uk please include your
order number in the email.
Glasses Delivery Schedule:
Please allow up to 15 working days for delivery of your glasses.
We aim to deliver most orders within 7 days with straightforward, single-vision glasses often being dispatched within 24 hours. However, each pair is individually crafted to your specification and may take longer as per the following schedule.
Standard Frames
Most standard frames with single vision or bifocal lenses will usually be dispatched within 7 days, or sooner. Please allow a little longer for multi-focal and coated lenses.
Rimless Frames
Rimless glasses are usually dispatched within a week. Please allow 15 working days for delivery of rimless glasses.
Designer Frames
Designer frames are usually dispatched within 15 working days. However, some models & colours may take a further 10 days or so if out of stock. (We will always notify you of any delays with designer frames and give you the option to exchange or cancel)
Specialist Sports Frames & Goggles
All specialist sports glasses and goggles are dispatched within 15 working days.
Safety Glasses
Prescription safety glasses are dispatched within 5 to 10 working days.
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I have a strong prescription - can you fill it?
We can fill a wide range of single vision prescriptions, including prescriptions with astigmatism. However, we do have some limitations.
Prescription Limitations.
We are not allowed to provide spectacles to customers who have had ‘Complex’ lenses prescribed.
Sphere (SPH): We cannot fill prescriptions with an SPH value stronger than -10.00 or +10.00. If you do not have astigmatism, the SPH will be the only value on your prescription (no CYL or Axis).
Cylinder (CYL): If you have astigmatism in either eye, you will have a CYL value in your prescription. We cannot fill prescriptions with a CYL value stronger than ±4.00.
While the above SPH and CYL values are at the extreme ends of our range, our ability to fill your prescription depends on your specific combination of SPH and CYL values. If your SPH is stronger than -6.00 in either eye and you also have a CYL value, please give us a call at 0151 632 6611, Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm. We would love to discuss your prescription in detail to determine whether or not we will be able to provide you with prescription lenses.
Prescription Limitations.
We are not allowed to provide spectacles to customers who have had ‘Complex’ lenses prescribed.
Sphere (SPH): We cannot fill prescriptions with an SPH value stronger than -10.00 or +10.00. If you do not have astigmatism, the SPH will be the only value on your prescription (no CYL or Axis).
Cylinder (CYL): If you have astigmatism in either eye, you will have a CYL value in your prescription. We cannot fill prescriptions with a CYL value stronger than ±4.00.
While the above SPH and CYL values are at the extreme ends of our range, our ability to fill your prescription depends on your specific combination of SPH and CYL values. If your SPH is stronger than -6.00 in either eye and you also have a CYL value, please give us a call at 0151 632 6611, Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm. We would love to discuss your prescription in detail to determine whether or not we will be able to provide you with prescription lenses.
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Do you sell Executive Bifocal Lenses?
Yes we do! Whilst our standard bifocal lenses are the 28mm, D-shaped segment – we have listened to our customers’ needs and can now provide Executive Bifocal lenses (the ones with a straight, horizontal line across the lens). You may locate these lenses on our website in our Specialist Lens section. Here’s a direct link to the product : http://www.spex4less.com/acatalog/Executive_Bifocal_Lenses.html
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Do you have other types of Bifocal Lenses?
Yes we do! Whilst our standard bifocal lenses are the 28mm, D-shaped segment – we have listened to our customers’ needs and can now provide several other types of Bifocal Lenses depending on their exact requirements.
We have a wide selection of specialist bifocal lenses including other D Seg, Round Seg, Curve Top & Executive Bifocals. If you can't see the lens you need, please simply call us and we'll look into it for you. Here is a link to our Specialist Bifocal Lens page: http://www.spex4less.com/bifocal_lenses.shtml
We have a wide selection of specialist bifocal lenses including other D Seg, Round Seg, Curve Top & Executive Bifocals. If you can't see the lens you need, please simply call us and we'll look into it for you. Here is a link to our Specialist Bifocal Lens page: http://www.spex4less.com/bifocal_lenses.shtml
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What colour tints can you provide?
We provide Dark Grey or Brown tints in our standard range. However, should you require a different colour, we are able to supply a range of specialist tints to suit your needs.
Here's a link to our Specialist Tint Section : http://www.spex4less.com/acatalog/Specialist_Tinted_Lenses.html
Here's a link to our Specialist Tint Section : http://www.spex4less.com/acatalog/Specialist_Tinted_Lenses.html
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Do you have any lenses other than those shown on the glasses pages?
Yes we do.
The lenses and coating you see on each of our glasses pages cater for the vast majority of our customers' requirements. However - we have recognised that some customers would occasionally like more specialised lenses, such as Essilor Varilux, Transitions XtraActive, trifocal and Drivewear - to name but a few!
We have a webpage dedicated to these Specialist Lenses and you may read more about them, here: http://www.spex4less.com/specialist_lenses.shtml.
The lenses and coating you see on each of our glasses pages cater for the vast majority of our customers' requirements. However - we have recognised that some customers would occasionally like more specialised lenses, such as Essilor Varilux, Transitions XtraActive, trifocal and Drivewear - to name but a few!
We have a webpage dedicated to these Specialist Lenses and you may read more about them, here: http://www.spex4less.com/specialist_lenses.shtml.
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How do I obtain Rebates under the French Healthcare System, CPAM.
The following is important information for you if you are a French resident and you may be looking to claim for your glasses from the French government medical rebate scheme. One of our own customers has kindly provided this information, which may be of use to our expats on the other side of La Manche.
You will need to get your invoice accepted by your local CPAM ("Caisse Primaire Assurance Maladie") office to get the refund from them. More importantly - this triggers the refund from your complementaire or mutual as it is often known. France has in the past refused to refund treatment from outside the country, but in the EU. However the EU has insisted France stop this practice and ordered her to make the refunds.
The following is what we have been told that a French resident needs to do :
Step 1 - is to have an eye test and if you need new glasses you must obtain an ordnance (Prescription).
Step 2 - visit your local CPAM office to obtain the form "soins reçus à l'étranger". Complete this form and under the section "EVENEMENTS A L'ORIGINE DES SOINS". To this, attach a copy of the prescription and the euro invoice (you will need to ask us for a Euro invoice separately, as we only issue them in Sterling unless you ask otherwise). In French, write "Lunettes acheté par internet parce qu'elles sont très moins cher que les magasins. Ci-joint nouvelle ordnance et reseignment". This was dictated to our customer by the clerk in the CPAM office.
Here's some more feedback on this matter from one of our customers:
"If anyone wants to know, it seems that CPAM will pay up on an English invoice, but you need to acquire and fill in a form "Soins Reçus a l'étranger", Form , no 12267*02, even though one is resident in France and not abroad (a l'étranger).
http://web1.droitissimo.com/sites/www.droitissimo.com/files/formulaires/cerfa_12267-02_Soins_recus_etranger-declaration_cassure.pdf
Two things to note:
Use recorded delivery or they may ignore it. Or deliver in person. They will take up to 2 months to process it.
And, CPAM offices are notoriously "independant minded". Reading around a bit, one office may OK it, another may quibble."
You will need to get your invoice accepted by your local CPAM ("Caisse Primaire Assurance Maladie") office to get the refund from them. More importantly - this triggers the refund from your complementaire or mutual as it is often known. France has in the past refused to refund treatment from outside the country, but in the EU. However the EU has insisted France stop this practice and ordered her to make the refunds.
The following is what we have been told that a French resident needs to do :
Step 1 - is to have an eye test and if you need new glasses you must obtain an ordnance (Prescription).
Step 2 - visit your local CPAM office to obtain the form "soins reçus à l'étranger". Complete this form and under the section "EVENEMENTS A L'ORIGINE DES SOINS". To this, attach a copy of the prescription and the euro invoice (you will need to ask us for a Euro invoice separately, as we only issue them in Sterling unless you ask otherwise). In French, write "Lunettes acheté par internet parce qu'elles sont très moins cher que les magasins. Ci-joint nouvelle ordnance et reseignment". This was dictated to our customer by the clerk in the CPAM office.
Here's some more feedback on this matter from one of our customers:
"If anyone wants to know, it seems that CPAM will pay up on an English invoice, but you need to acquire and fill in a form "Soins Reçus a l'étranger", Form , no 12267*02, even though one is resident in France and not abroad (a l'étranger).
http://web1.droitissimo.com/sites/www.droitissimo.com/files/formulaires/cerfa_12267-02_Soins_recus_etranger-declaration_cassure.pdf
Two things to note:
Use recorded delivery or they may ignore it. Or deliver in person. They will take up to 2 months to process it.
And, CPAM offices are notoriously "independant minded". Reading around a bit, one office may OK it, another may quibble."
Show Answer
Is it easy to get my prescription so I can buy glasses online ?
Your Optician should, by law, have given you your glasses prescription at the time of your last sight test. If you have mislaid your glasses prescription your Optician should give you a copy. If you want to take advantage of a special or glasses offer from us, you may order your glasses leaving the prescription details blank. Once you have a copy send it along to us with your order number.
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Do you sell prescription sunglasses?
Yes, you can choose a permanent tint which looks like sunglasses and which contains your prescription. This is available in grey or brown.
Alternatively you can choose phototchromic lenses which darken in the sunshine and lighten indoors. We supply Transitions and Transitions XTRActive. For driving, we can also offer Drivewear lenses which are photochromic and have a medium-level permanent tint.
For extra clarity in the sunshine, we also offer polarised lenses. Just as dark as a sunglass tint, they add an extra depth of contrast which our customers often prefer in place of a standard sunglass tint. Polarised lenses are also the lenses of choice for anyone on or near the water (think fishing, sailing etc!).
Alternatively you can choose phototchromic lenses which darken in the sunshine and lighten indoors. We supply Transitions and Transitions XTRActive. For driving, we can also offer Drivewear lenses which are photochromic and have a medium-level permanent tint.
For extra clarity in the sunshine, we also offer polarised lenses. Just as dark as a sunglass tint, they add an extra depth of contrast which our customers often prefer in place of a standard sunglass tint. Polarised lenses are also the lenses of choice for anyone on or near the water (think fishing, sailing etc!).
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Do you supply frames only?
Yes we do! The cost is the same as the price of the glasses you see on our site (essentially, we provide FREE, uncoated, CR39, single vision lenses, within our standard prescription range, for all frames).
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Are the glasses frames and lenses the same quality as I get from my Optician?
Yes, we only use CE marked frames. Our stock comes from exactly the same sources and inventory that high street opticians use in their shops.
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How can I tell if the spectacles frame is going to be the right size?
The best way is to order a similar size to a comfortable pair of glasses that you already have. All of our frames have measurements of the lens size, the distance between the lenses (DBL) and the arm length. You will be able to read these measurements off your present frames and they are always in millimetres.
For example, in a frame that has "47-21-140" printed inside the arm, the important numbers are "47", "21" and"140". This tells you that the lens diameter is 47mm, the nose bridge gap is 21mm and that the arm length is 140mm.
The lens diameter refers to the diagonal width in millimeters of one of the frame's lenses. The measurement is taken from the inside of one side of the frame to the inside of the other side of the frame.
The nose bridge gap is the distance in millimeters between the two lenses.
The arm length is the distance of each frame arm taken from the hinge to the tip of the arm where it ends behind the ear.
For example, in a frame that has "47-21-140" printed inside the arm, the important numbers are "47", "21" and"140". This tells you that the lens diameter is 47mm, the nose bridge gap is 21mm and that the arm length is 140mm.
The lens diameter refers to the diagonal width in millimeters of one of the frame's lenses. The measurement is taken from the inside of one side of the frame to the inside of the other side of the frame.
The nose bridge gap is the distance in millimeters between the two lenses.
The arm length is the distance of each frame arm taken from the hinge to the tip of the arm where it ends behind the ear.
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What if my frames need an adjustment?
If you need a minor adjustment most local Opticians will do this for you, though some may charge a small fee.
We also have some useful information and guides on how to do this at home on our blog. We also send out an instruction sheet with each order dispatched.
Of course, you may also bring or send them into us for adjustment of you so wish. If posting them in to us for any adjustment, please be very specific (using a diagram if possible) in describing the adjustment you require.
We also have some useful information and guides on how to do this at home on our blog. We also send out an instruction sheet with each order dispatched.
Of course, you may also bring or send them into us for adjustment of you so wish. If posting them in to us for any adjustment, please be very specific (using a diagram if possible) in describing the adjustment you require.
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Do I need Distance, Intermediate, Reading, or Bifocal or Varifocal Spectacles?
Distance spectacles are for general use e.g. driving, watching TV or walking about in. Some people wear distance glasses all the time for all tasks including close work.
Reading spectacles are for reading and close work only. If your prescription has an “add” you will only be able to wear your glasses for close work and they will be blurred if you look in the distance.
Intermediate spectacles can be for computer or 'arms length' work or, occasionally, they are set for reading music. They are similar to reading glasses but the range of the focus is set further away. Your Optician will give you a specific glasses prescription for this which may be a different “add” (an 'inter' or 'intermediate' add) or a completely separate prescription.
Bifocal spectacles have a regular distance lens with a segment in the bottom for reading. These are for people with a reading add who would otherwise need separate glasses for distance and reading.
Varifocal lenses, also called progressive addition lenses, progressive power lenses and graduated lenses, are corrective lenses used in glasses to correct presbyopia and other disorders of accommodation. A gradient of increasing lens power is added to the correction for the other refraction error, going from a minimum or nothing at the top of the lens to maximum magnification at the bottom of the lens. A wearer can then adjust the lens power required for clear vision at different viewing distances by tilting his or her head to place the line of sight through different parts of the lens.
Varifocal lenses avoid the sudden jump in the visual field created by bifocal lenses. The lenses are also more cosmetically attractive as there are not any obvious or sharp jumps between the visual areas.
Also known as Progressive lenses, they are know as the modern alternative to the older bifocal and trifocal lenses.
The lenses suffer the slight disadvantage of creating regions of 'distortion' away from the optical axis, yielding poor visual resolution toward the edges. Although manufacturers are constantly striving to minimize these distortions, some wearers cannot tolerate the lenses. The amount of distortion typically reduces depending on higher varifocal lens quality the wearer opts for.
Reading spectacles are for reading and close work only. If your prescription has an “add” you will only be able to wear your glasses for close work and they will be blurred if you look in the distance.
Intermediate spectacles can be for computer or 'arms length' work or, occasionally, they are set for reading music. They are similar to reading glasses but the range of the focus is set further away. Your Optician will give you a specific glasses prescription for this which may be a different “add” (an 'inter' or 'intermediate' add) or a completely separate prescription.
Bifocal spectacles have a regular distance lens with a segment in the bottom for reading. These are for people with a reading add who would otherwise need separate glasses for distance and reading.
Varifocal lenses, also called progressive addition lenses, progressive power lenses and graduated lenses, are corrective lenses used in glasses to correct presbyopia and other disorders of accommodation. A gradient of increasing lens power is added to the correction for the other refraction error, going from a minimum or nothing at the top of the lens to maximum magnification at the bottom of the lens. A wearer can then adjust the lens power required for clear vision at different viewing distances by tilting his or her head to place the line of sight through different parts of the lens.
Varifocal lenses avoid the sudden jump in the visual field created by bifocal lenses. The lenses are also more cosmetically attractive as there are not any obvious or sharp jumps between the visual areas.
Also known as Progressive lenses, they are know as the modern alternative to the older bifocal and trifocal lenses.
The lenses suffer the slight disadvantage of creating regions of 'distortion' away from the optical axis, yielding poor visual resolution toward the edges. Although manufacturers are constantly striving to minimize these distortions, some wearers cannot tolerate the lenses. The amount of distortion typically reduces depending on higher varifocal lens quality the wearer opts for.
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Can I use my present frame and have new lenses put in it?
This is called a reglaze. As long as your current glasses frame is in a "serviceable" condition, we will be happy to reglaze them to your prescription. We offer the same variants of lens type and coating for reglaze as we do for our own stock of glasses online.
