The ULTIMATE Online Glasses, Eyewear & Contact Lenses Guide

LFirstNameLastName on 26/06/2010 - 01:32
Last edited 04/08/2011 - 14:46 by 2 other users
  • this OP (opening post) is refined/edited as OzBargain members add their comments below.
  • last update: 28th Sept.2010

MOD: LINKS TO ONLINE CONTACTS/GLASSES RETAILERS ARE NOW IN THE WIKI (thanks shue)

INTRODUCTION

I spent $560 on my first set of glasses.
They lasted a month (got really drunk.. they vanished).
I spent $400 on my second pair.
They lasted a year (car accident.. the lady who hit me needed them =p).

So, $1000 lost on some plastic with nothing to show for it?
This was the catalyst for my online bargain hunting era.. which brought me here to OzBargain.

I researched and discovered many of our optometrists/frame-makers are owned by just a few companies.
Indeed, most are owned by just one overseas company! ONE! Wiki:"Luxottica Group".

Luxottica own the OPSM, Budget Eyewear, Target/Kmart eyewear, Sunglasses Hut, etc etc etc..
They make(or lease to make) Rayban/Prada/Versace/D&G etc etc..
They are fooling us into thinking we have many choices of store/brand/service in the guise of sub-companies & 'specials'..
when really they're all in bed together enjoying one big reach-around.. into our pockets.

Please don't feel so bad when you go to your optometrist (or back to your last one) and ask for your script.
If they ask why, say you'd like to keep them all on file to monitor your eyes over time.
Or, do what I do and rant on about Luxottica, say you are going online
(watch their face when you say 'online'.. hilarious!)

I don't suggest you be harsh, because the optometrists may also be victims of Luxottica's monopoly.
Also, some are fully indpendent and can offer excellent service, quality, skill and care.
They may have spent years at uni to be able to give you that level of care.
(eyes are kinda important =p) But comeon.. $500 for some plastic? My car is worth less.. it's a joke! (both the cost of glasses, and my car)

Some conglomerates have said that offshore lenses are worse/damaging to eye health.
However, my eyesight is perfect with 2 years of online glasses, and I have plenty of checkups.
Yet, the set I paid $560 for had terrible halo issues and the retailer wouldn't fix them.

I've since bought glasses online from several stores, and contact lenses from USA.
The savings are massive and I've not had one poor experience. Not one!

If you can afford the great service of a local independant optometrist, great!
If you can afford private health with plenty of optical 'extras', great!

But if you are like me, and on a budget, or just don't like being rorted.. read on! =p.

BUYING GLASSES/CONTACTS ONLINE

Here are links to online glasses stores.
* = OzBargain members successfully bought from it.

http://www.zennioptical.com *
http://www.39dollarglasses.com *
http://www.glassesshop.com *
http://www.optical4less.com *
http://www.eyebuydirect.com
http://www.selectspecs.com *
http://www.specsonthenet.co.uk
http://www.goggles4u.com
http://www.visiondirect.com * (note: NOT visiondirect.com.AU who MAY be dubious - search below)
http://www.quicklens.com.au *
http://www.netoptical.com.au *
http://www.opticaldirect.com.au
http://www.optics-online.com.au
http://www.eurekaoptical.com/ *
http://www.glassons.com

Here are two reviewers:
http://www.eyeglassretailerreviews.com (easier to read?)
http://www.glassyeyes.blogspot.com

The reviewers may have heard of new/better stores.. or if there have been issues with orders.
(example: a reviewer claimed that at one stage Zenni were dubious.. but now are fine)

Some reviewers will offer a discount (and get a commission) if you use their links.
Otherwise, google for a coupon/promotional code, you're bound to end up with a discount.
(free shipping codes often refer to USA only)

So go get a fresh prescription before ordering (Free thru Medicare.. depending).
While there, make sure you ask your optometrist for a P.D. (distance between pupils).
The figure will be, for example, 62mm, or 65/67mm (in this case, use first figure).
You'll need this for online ordering and it's not usually in your prescription.

Also, go into a store (or use your current glasses) to get the measurements/style of what works for your noggin.
Measurements can been seen on your glasses (like 51/17 etc) but you'll need missing figures like total width of fram and temple arm length.

Use this, and your imagination, to work out what online glasses will suit you.
It's important that you stick with measurements/styles you know will work for you.. no matter how great the specs look on screen.

CONTACT LENSES

Call around universities!
Brisbane's QUT Kelvin Grove (listed under 'optometrists' in white/yellow pages) has 4th year students who'll fit you for -free- while guided by a professional. They'll give you some freebie lenses to try out.. and they'll allow you to keep coming back till you feel confident/great with them.

Otherwise, Optometrists charge $50-$100 to teach you how to fit them.

Here is a site that might compare multiple websites and give info on contacts etc.
http://www.cl66.org

Contact lense stores
(* = member has used them)
http://www.contactconnection.com.au (rep 'AJones' has posted below)
http://www.Visiondirect.com * (competitive in bulk)
(note: NOT visiondirect.com.AU who MAY be dubious - search below)
http://www.Quicklens.com.au * (seemingly very cheap)
http://www.netoptical.com.au * (great service.. but not as cheap?)
http://www.clearlycontacts.com.au *
http://www.coastalcontacts.com *
http://www.webcontacts.com.au
http://www.1800contacts.com
http://www.eyesonline.com.au
http://www.aclens.com
http://www.lensshopper.com
(+ more in the glases list above)

You could also do a search on shopbot for your contacts:
http://www.shopbot.com.au

Consider contact lenses that fit your eye perfectly over a cheaper pair that don't fit so well.
Consider requesting trial pairs before making a bulk purchase.

LASER SURGERY ETC

Here is the OzBargain thread on all that stuff
http://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/23310

General Discussion

Comments

  • FirstNameLastName on 26/06/2010 - 13:03
    +2

    p.s. a friend of a friend was in eyewear/optometry/lens creation for 20 years.
    he got out because he said the luxottica group controls about 75% of our market.
    and in doing so, they could offer him 50k for a job worth 75k.
    he said they don't just ream the consumers, but also the employees.

    so, the best thing you can do for your local optometrist is to 'set them free' by buying online =p.

    • AJones on 29/07/2010 - 00:23

      Thank you for the post Stitchy but please don't forget us too! - http://www.contactconnection.com.au

      We have been serving the Ozbargain community for the past year and are run and owned by Australian optometrists. We make sure our prices are competitive by checking our competitors prices regularly to make sure they are as low as possible. Check our prices, if you are not happy with them, let us know. We are always happy to work something out for everyone.

  • leiiv on 29/06/2010 - 18:31
    +1

    Many thumbs up for you Stitchy!! I you have some spare time, It would be nice to put these info on our wiki.

  • Mugz on 30/06/2010 - 00:22

    This is an awesome! Great work Stitchy!

    I had a look at Visiondirect.com in the US - at the moment they have a 20% off first order deal. I want to take advantage of that, but currently they do not ship my particular contacts overseas for some odd reason.

    Does anyone know of any freight forwarders that have been used in the past and are good value/reliable? Shipping to an address in US and then having it sent down under seems to be the only way around it…

  • ozhunter on 30/06/2010 - 03:10

    I just bought my contacts from budgeteyewear before reading this and they were $133 for 1 box(6 lenses). Visiondirect.com has them for US$30 + shipping. Thanks for the post Stitchy, I know where I'll be getting my contacts from now on.

  • FirstNameLastName on 30/06/2010 - 19:53

    Thanks everyone for the positive comments.

    leiiv, I have included a link to this thread on the wiki [http://www.ozbargain.com.au/wiki/category:health_beauty#cheap_eyeglasses]

    if a moderator requests it I could post it all to the wiki, edited down I suppose..

    in meantime, please keep posting your online eyewear experiences here, i can add your feedback to the wiki too if that goes ahead.

  • FirstNameLastName on 30/06/2010 - 19:58

    Heya Mugz,
    perhaps email them and ask why they won't ship 'em overseas? sounds strange eh.
    otherwise, i don't know of a fwder.. but would like to (never even thought of this before).

  • FirstNameLastName on 30/06/2010 - 21:02

    =Some More Contact Lens info=

    RE: Soap n Tissues!
    I don't know about you, but I'm really not wanting an eye infection, as it will rule out laser surgery.
    I know that's ironic, I don't want poor soap in my eyes because I wanna be elligible to have a razor blade skim a flap off my cornea so a laser can have it's way with me gogglies. =p

    So, I researched for soaps known to be ok for washing hands before handling contacts.
    Here is a list I found..

    DON'T USE: Softsoap, Ivory Liquid, Caress, Dove, Gentle Touch, Any deodorant soap.
    OK to USE: Neutrogena, Ivory Bar, Opti-Soap, Clear dishwashing detergent (Joy), Dial and Dial pump.
    (disclaimer: I take nil responsibility. further info: google list or or go to a sourced google book.)

    I bought the neutrogena online for a few bucks (had a big order of other stuff).
    I use it exclusively for pre contacts in/out.
    I also buy clear white non-perfumed aldi tissues as they don't seem to leave fibres on fingers.
    I also keep my nails filed, short and clean.

    ok.. so maybe a bit off topic for bargains etc.. but knowing you -could- use Joy may save you some bucks =p

    ==RE: toric lenses (used for astigmitation)==

    I've found there are four makers/models of soft daily (one use) toric contacts:
    -1. Bausch & Lomb SofLens "Daily disposable toric"
    -2. CIBA Vision "Biomedic One Day Toric"
    -3. Johnson & Johnson Acuvue "One Day Toric"
    -4. Cooper Vision "Focus Daily Torics" (made in USA)

    hopefully this helps your searching.. post if you find others.

    The "Focus Daily Torics" were cheapest and they work ok for my eyes (Bausch were better)
    OPSM have Focus Dailes at $600 per 12boxes.. (and that's AFTER you SAVE $300!!! wow!! yay!! fail)
    I bought 12 boxes from Visiondirect a year ago for $USD 266.68 delivered (with coupon code).
    (lenses had 4 years before expiry)

    ALSO: check quicklens.com.au !! (see comments below.. thanks 'ishe')

  • Davo1111 on 30/06/2010 - 21:23

    very cool post. i was hoping specsavers would force the market down, but went there recently and found they were just as expensive. :/

  • cocomelon on 12/07/2010 - 12:45

    i use quicklens the price they have much more a bargain for me…
    vision direct has my contact lenses for $24.99, bought from quicklens for $13.32

    • FirstNameLastName on 12/07/2010 - 13:15

      sweet.. i'll check them out!

      i'll add them to the wiki if i do that.. or my initial post above

    • FirstNameLastName on 12/07/2010 - 16:03

      ishe, if you remember, which lens was $13.32?

      i had a quick look.. the ones I bought are about the same price at both stores.. depending on coupon codes/quanitity etc.

      i'll definitely re-compare when I make do next order.

      cheers
      rob

      • cocomelon on 12/07/2010 - 17:23

        it was focus monthly visitint i think

        • FirstNameLastName on 12/07/2010 - 18:13

          holy crap.. um visiondirect seem to have that product at $52USD/box compared to quicklens $13AUD..

          definitely check quicklens before going with visiondirect.

  • bbourizk on 12/07/2010 - 17:53

    thanks for the links…will come in handy for my next set of contacts

  • cks1993 on 14/07/2010 - 18:05
    -1

    Just for everyone's information, the Vision Direct is a con company. This is based in Hongkong or somewhere with some small garage office with a phone number that is always connected to a fax. I waited for my order for 4 weeks and they would not deliver. After a lot of frustration and mail exchanges, got money refunded. I would NEVER DEAL WITH THEM.

    MOD COMMENT - A new member who says in their profile they are from Sydney but logs in from the USA with a very dubious report which cannot be substantiated, makes you wonder about their ability to disclose information accurately ….. Take this report with a grain of salt.

    Oh and BTW in Hong Kong there are not many garages to work out of as in the USA… Kitchens, bedrooms maybe… if it was a "garage" in Hong Kong they would be a fairly wealthy person already, and probably make more from renting out the space for that.

    • FirstNameLastName on 14/07/2010 - 19:24

      You have the wrong company.

      I just called them on 0011 1 902 492 4352.
      I got a an obvious american dude.. confirmed they ship from New Jersey.

      Looking at my original parcel, I clearly see USA postmarks.

      You are either confused, have been conned, or possibly work for a competitor.
      (apologies, you have one comment so far on OzBargain, so I must consider this)

      Vision Direct is not a con company..
      A 'whois' for them reveals they are owned by drugstore.com, which is NASDAQ listed.
      (http://www.nasdaq.com/screening/companies-by-name.aspx?lette…)

      What number where you given from what website?

    • lumiere on 28/08/2010 - 12:10

      Note that there is visiondirect.com and visiondirect.com.au. A lot of reviews validate the experiences of cks1993 with visiondirect.com.au.

      • [Deactivated] on 28/08/2010 - 13:30

        Lumiere, after cks1993's, first, one and only post that makes the criticism of this company a little suss, so pointing to the reviews would really help. Can you post the links to these. Thanks

        • Vision Direct on 22/11/2010 - 14:05

          As a Vision Direct Representative I have noticed that there are some concerns regarding www.VisionDirect.com.au. I want to reassure you that all of our eye wear are 100% authentic. We can provide these products at a discount because of our low cost strategy. We keep our prices low by making use of our strong logistical supplier network.

          Furthermore we are a respected online seller acknowledge by Trustpilot, a consumer watchdog portal, which rates us 8.7 out of 10.

          http://www.trustpilot.com/review/www.visiondirect.com.au

          Customer satisfaction is a top priority for us, so please let our Customer Support team know of any issues you may have and they will ensure your concerns will be resolved right away. The Customer Support team is experienced in handling all manners of issues, so feel free to contact us at any time.

          [email protected]
          or call 1800 -261-453

          best regards,

          Customer Support Team

  • shmahoo on 15/07/2010 - 15:47
    +5

    Disclaimer - I am a self-employed optometrist working in Melbourne's northern suburbs.

    Now, where do I start?

    I am happy to answer any questions you might have, publicly or privately, about my profession.

    I can confirm that Laubman and Pank, OPSM and Budget Eyewear are all owned by the same comapny, Luxottica. This company also owns Sunglasses Hut. It also owns the rights to a majority of brands, such as Prada, Gucci, D&G, etc. It also owns outright the company Oakley (sunglasses). It is a huge global company and only getting bigger.

    But it doesn't have enough optometrists working for it, so you might easily find yourself seeing one optometrist one day, and another on another day, as optometrists get switched around to fill in gaps in the company's schedule. Some optometrists even work for all three companies that I have mentioned, just on different days.

    It is law in Australia that optometrists must give patients a copy of their glasses prescription when asked. It's a bit trickier with contact lens prescriptions, because we need to see the CLs on your eyes over a certain period of time before we can certify that they are appropriate for you.

    The main info you need to make up specs are of course your prescription (eg R +2.00/-1.00x90, L +1.50/-1.50x85) and your PD (distance between the centre of the pupils of each eye). Without this information, it is impossible to make up specs as anything more than a guess. (This is why readymades (eg from chemists/newsagents/markets) may have the right numbers/prescription but never seem quite "right" for you). But there are certain frames that are not suitable for some presciptions, some faces, some occupations. Likewise, certain lens materials (eg polycarbonate, trivex) might not be appropriate for certain frames or certain prescriptions or certain occupations or certain uses.

    Optometrists do not set out to rip people off. Well, I don't. Of course some do, like some people in every industry/profession. I know of some chains and some individual optometrists who do mislead and deceive customers. I have worked for some that do. I am happy to report that I believe they are in the vast minority of the total population of optometrists. I also know of some (mainly independent) optometrists who drastically undercharge for their services, and bend over backwards to advise and serve their patients. I also know of mechanics who replace parts which do not need to be replaced, surgeons who advocate for removal of someone's appendix for more financial reasons than medical ones, and financial planners who are far more motivated by their remuneration than their client's financial results.

    For an average optometrist, the fees charged for their consultations (usually bulk billed in metro cities in Australia) will go only part way towards paying the salary of the optometrist. But it is the sale of the glasses/contact lenses which is where the real money can be made. Retail based optometrists cannot compete with price with the overseas based (not-complying-with-Australian-law) wholesale warehouses. If every contact lens and spectacle wearer stopped buying in store and started only buying online, MOST if not all retail (basically every one) optometrist businesses would go under. Then there would be no-one around to see to get your prescription from.

    It is impossible to get a correctly fitting spec (apart from pure luck) from a website. Unless of course you have seen a frame in store and tried it on first, then ordered the exact frame from a website. This is complicated by the proliferation of HIGH quality fakes available from overseas manufacturers and online. A large proportion of "brand name" frames from websites are simply not genuine. They might be genuine, but parallel imported (with no spare parts or warranty support in Australia), and they might be out and out fakes. Look at how good the fake sunglasses are now. Pradas, Guccis, D&G; We get them in all the time at our work and they are definitely getting harder to tell from the real thing. Two things are true - the fakes are getting better quality, but the genuine ones are decreasing in quality too. Quite often the same are being made in the same factory in China. The branded ones leave via the front door, and the fakes leave via the back door, with either a minute or no difference.

    There is a huge difference in quality in spectacle lenses, too. There are good anti-reflection coatings on lenses, and there are bad ones. A large chain was well known for selling anti-reflection coated lenses in the 90s that noticeably failed after 18 or 24 months, but never did anything about it, instead they blamed the customer and said they mustn't have looked after the glasses well, and that it has "never happened to anyone else!".

    A reasonably large chain (which has been taken over by another chain) used to give a "second pair free". When this really REALLY cheap quality second pair broke (virtually inevitable) the standard line was "Well, at least it was only your FREE pair". And if the "good" pair broke first, the line was "Well, at least you have your second pair as a spare!".

    So how can (especially chains) sell "second pair free" ? - Well, let's look at the figures. Making up two pairs the same power has some economics of quantity. Also, it has used no extra staff or optometrist time. Plus, there is the chance to double-double-dip. Eg - anti-reflection coating costs are usually artificially high at stores like Specsavers. If you get their (poor quality in my opinion) anti-reflection coating on both your original AND free pair, the extra cost is approximately $180. This costs Specsavers maybe an extra $10 in total - not a bad mark-up !! And it blows their "2 pairs for $199" or similar price out of the water.

    So if you're prepared to take the risk, are happy with fitting of specs which are not subject to (stringent by world standards) Australian Standards, you are welcome to take the risk. I LOVE shopping on websites such as DEALEXTREME, CATCHOFTHEDAY, ZAZZ etc. I am fully aware that some of their "bargains" are a risk, eg being factory refurbished, etc. But I enter into a transaction with them under full disclosure. I EXPECT their service to be terrible (by my standards), and to have to fight for a replacement or refund if necessary. I LOVE trawling through the OZBARGAIN pages, and picked up a 250GB twin tuner Panasonic DVD recorder last night. I expect it to have some quirks, but then again, I paid $428 inc delivery. I COULD have chosen to go and buy it from Good Guys today for $629 on special. But that is my choice.

    OK - that's enough rambling. If you have read this far, thanks very much for your time. I mean every word that I have said, and I hope that my comments are logical and common sense. Remember, they come from the bias of an independent, self-employed optometrist whose reputation hangs more on what advice I give rather than how many glasses I sell. Think about it. If I get a reputation for selling more specs than are necessary, for being overpriced, or for having crappy quality specs that break all the time, how long would I stay in business. And on the flip side - If instead my reputation is that I give great quality advice and sell high quality goods at reasonable prices, how much better is that for my sustainability?

    Again, if you have any questions, please feel free to ask me privately or publicly.

    Thanks - Shmahoo

    PS - Stitchy - I applaud you on your article. There are a few (minor) changes I would suggest, but overall what you write is valid. I would watch out on a few things - contact lenses are sometimes known under different names in different countries, so be careful. Also, I can state that IO have had at least fifteen of my customers/patients buy specs from (overseas) websites and have problems. True, I know of some who have had no problems, but at least ten of those specs were unwearable by my (and the customer's) standards, andnot always have they been able to get their money back (read the fine print).

    • fattyboombatty on 16/07/2010 - 11:20

      Hi Shmahoo - I can't seem to contact you privately. Is it possible to find out where your business is located?

      Feel free to contact me privately

      Thanks
      F

  • FirstNameLastName on 16/07/2010 - 02:50
    +1

    Awesome post Shmahoo.. cheers very muchly.

    If possible, please post a website/phone number where someone can source independent optometrists.
    I had a quick google but am unsure what sites to trust.

    I have recently joined private health, and so, plan to buy a pair using the 'extras'.
    Will be good to compare them with my net specs (if I was in Melbourne I'd consider your store 8^p).

    Apart from your post, feel free to make suggestions here or message me.. I'll edit the intial post.
    I plan to make the OP a little less histrionic, and I'll mention there are independent optometrists.

    re: "It is impossible to get a correctly fitting spec (apart from pure luck) from a website. Unless of course you have seen a frame in store and tried it on first, then ordered the exact frame from a website."

    I agree to an extent. But then, I've been as disappointed by my $400 Versace as one or two of my online pairs. I found I ran out of energy trying to find glasses that perfectly suited, searching shop after shop, and so I bought something I soon didn't like. I've had good luck online because I now know what nose bridge, temple width, frame width etc works for me.. and these measurements are listed on the websites. Hint: Make sure you stick to what measurements suit you, no matter how schmick the glasses look on screen (you may have to go 'shop to shop' but it's easier online =P).

  • peter787 on 16/07/2010 - 22:29

    as a result of my eyes i have to wear rgp which are quite expensive 300 each lens. i have found the same type on clearly contacts for 52 a lens. my problem as i have a good relationship with the optomety i go to, i didnt want them to suspect i am buying from someone else and said i was traveling overseas for a bit, which i am not to get my script and enable me to order online. i just hope i dont run into anyone from the optometry in th next few weeks.

    • shmahoo on 16/07/2010 - 23:05

      Hi Peter

      Are you sure that you have the correct design of your RGPs? You need to know the numbers of your prescription, of course, and the material (eg Boston 7), but also the design. I had a look at the clearlycontacts.com.au website and I couldn't find anywhere where you would enter the design (eg keratoconue, tri-curve, extra edge lift) of the lens. This is very important in my opinion for the correct fit for your eyes. I hope it all goes well for you.

      • peter787 on 17/07/2010 - 20:22

        the ones i need to order are the boston xo, and on the packages i have they have the term KBA tonic, not sure what that means, and the specification for the right lens. i do have kerataconus. basically, i need to know what the term 'kba tonic' means. any help would be appreciated and thanks for the reply, i rather order them online and does anyone know of other website that sell rgps.

        • shmahoo on 18/07/2010 - 06:53

          I presume you're talking about keratoconus bi-aspheric, which is a particular shape of lens. Tonic is not a correct word, perhaps "toric" is what you're after. I haven't heard of KBA before, but some research has found them. I think anyone with RGP lenses is mad (well, I'm just being honest) to get them from an online seller. Because there are so many minute details that can be adjusted from an RGP lens. They are not just sitting on a shelf somewhere ready for a guy to pick them off the shelf and post them to you - they are individually ground specifically to your prescription and measurements. KBA lenses also are a real specialty. With keratoconus, if you get the shape in any way wrong, it can further damage your eye, which could lead to further progression of your keratoconus, which of course can lead to corneal transplant.

          Take home message - Disposable lenses ARE often the same from expensive retail optometrist (me) as they are via no-service online merchant. RGP lenses are NOT. More info if you want it

  • FirstNameLastName on 17/07/2010 - 22:54

    note: I've edited the OP.. more links and refined info.. also a link to the laser surgery thread.

    • [Deactivated] on 18/07/2010 - 08:46

      Stitchy

      Nice post however can you also look at putting this in the wiki as well, that way we cover all bases and it wont get buried by other posts in this thread.

      Leaving it here is fine, as more discussion adds to the knowledge, putting the wiki up as well, as it already has a link to this thread included in the wiki.

      http://www.ozbargain.com.au/wiki/category:health_beauty

  • [Deactivated] on 18/07/2010 - 09:11

    AS for experience with online spectacle makers.

    My first experience was with Auspecs (found here http://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/2869)
    The glasses were fine and I was pleased with them considering it cost me 1/3 that of one of the budget retailers.

    However I did have a battle with my health fund CBHS as they said that they were not an Australian supplier. In the end they gave me an ex gratia payment. (I even argued I was saving CBHS money as well) BUT now I notice that Auspecs are recognised by CBHS.

    I did have trouble with one pair from them and they promptly refunded my money. Also as they now are recognised by my health fund then I get some money back.

    I have had one experience where the optometrist did get it wrong, so I know how can I get a "refund" from one of the cheap suppliers when its the script not the glasses that was at fault.

    So my planned strategy with buying specs now is to use Austspecs (my choice because of past service) to buy my first pair which I can get health fund rebate, and to buy a backup/reading/sunnies from OS once I know the "prescription" is fine (and these arent covered by my healthfund's one per year).

    Alternatively is to buy a pair of the very basic cheapies online - to test the script out before buying the expensive set. - or what strategy would you or others advise….

    I have used selectspecs, Zenni

  • Kelly666 on 12/08/2010 - 09:18

    I just found out my script has gone up again!

    I still have some contact lenses in opened boxes if anyone is interested in buying them at a discounted rate.
    I will create an eBay listing if anyone is interested (for your safety)

    I will sell them separately of course!

    -5.50 and -5.00
    BC: 8.4
    13.8
    Night & Day (the most comfortable contacts ever)
    EXP: 2013

    Note to mods:
    It is only illegal to sell novelty contact lenses, these are normal prescription contacts.

  • PenKnight on 29/08/2010 - 23:11

    I would like to add to the list

    http://www.eurekaoptical.com/

    There was a post on ozbargin before but can't find it anymore. They are still offering the free first pair and I have ordered one.The package had NSW stickers on it which is strange as I thought this company was in hong kong. $15 is an extremely good price compared to the other two I bought which are 500+ each. Same both as you OP. Good on ya for spreading the word.

    • FirstNameLastName on 29/08/2010 - 23:36

      done.. and thank you.. they do seem competitive. I'll have to have a proper look there for my next pair.

    • FirstNameLastName on 08/01/2012 - 12:54
      +1

      it seems eurekaoptical have gone out of business?
      (website currently goes to domain reseller)

  • Duff5000 on 24/09/2010 - 13:56

    What about: http://www.clearlycontacts.com.au
    http://www.coastalcontacts.com/

    Heaps of people on here have used these.

    • FirstNameLastName on 24/09/2010 - 14:28

      sweet.. added.
      When I get some time and I'm feeling OCD.. I'll be sure to update the wiki as well with all these links.
      Perhaps.. even just have them there and not here at all.

  • justit on 25/09/2010 - 15:54

    thank you so much for sharing such a great list! I am thinking about getting new eyeglasses and your information comes just right in time!

    • FirstNameLastName on 26/09/2010 - 03:18

      many here contributed to that list and I'm glad it helps.
      Yesterday I gave it to a real life friend.
      He'll now save some money & anxiety(over being ripped off yet again).

  • FirstNameLastName on 26/09/2010 - 03:19
    +1

    good news for people who aren't happy with their toric type contacts.
    A new brand is being launched in about a week.
    I'm going to trial them soon after and will report back.

    (there are only four companies doing toric right now.. i think).

    • dzf on 27/09/2010 - 15:21

      thx, looking forward to hearing your thoughts.

      i'll probably be in the market for another 6-month supply in a few months…!

    • tonester on 27/09/2010 - 16:06
      +1

      http://www.netoptical.com.au/catalog/index.php?cPath=1010 lists six different toric manufacturers.

      Silicon hydrogel torics include Acuvue Oasys, Air Optix, Avaira, Biofinity, PureVision.

      • FirstNameLastName on 27/09/2010 - 17:45

        sweet.. cheers

        I forgot to mention the '4 companies' (J&J, Ciba, Cooper, B&L) referred only to daily products (as the new product is a daily).

        i only use daily lenses as (i believe?) it reduces risk of keratitis and therefore increases my chances of future elligibility for laser correction.

        • shmahoo on 27/09/2010 - 18:43

          In my opinion (as an optometrist who prescribes contact lenses every day) the main determinant as to your risk of keratitis (inflammation/infection of the cornea) is the amount of oxygen that makes it to your cornea. Your cornea needs to breathe. It is a unique part of the body in that it is the only part of your body apart from some cells in the lungs that do NOT receive their oxygen from the blood supply. It breathes directly from the atmosphere. Hence when some CLs block out a lot of oxygen, this makes the cornea much more susceptible to damage and disease. The latest generation CLs, such as Biofinity are the best at letting more oxygen through than is actually needed. Hence why these lenses are then safe to leave in overnight. So I actually think it is safer for your eyes to wear these lenses overnight, even better than daily CLs worn only during the day.

          Hope that helps.

          Shmahoo

          • tonester on 28/09/2010 - 13:19

            @shmahoo: That is unfortunately, and surprisingly for an eye professional, unsafe advice.

            Contact lens and good eye health:

            • Extended wear, such as overnight while sleeping, increases risk of bad eye health, such as keratitis.

            • Good hygiene, cleaning and storage practices reduces risk of bad eye health.

            • High oxygen permeability reduces risk of bad eye health.

            • Regular lens replacement reduces risk of bad eye health.

            Conclusions for maximising eye health with contact lenses:

            • Only wear when necessary.

            • Choose silicon hydrogels where possible.

            • Use daily disposables if available/affordable or clean/store properly and replace as recommended for lens type.

            http://www.visioncrc.org/mk/index.asp
            http://www.siliconehydrogels.org/editorials/mar_08.asp

            If considering laser eye surgery, one might like to keep in mind that most ophthalmologists would choose to wear corrective lenses rather than undergo it themselves.

            • FirstNameLastName on 28/09/2010 - 13:51

              @tonester: Hi tonester,

              It sounds like you both know a deal more about lenses than me.

              What shmahoo says makes logical sense.. that one product(biofinity) breathes so well.. you are better to leave them in for a bit longer than risk infection via the vulnerable handling stage.

              Those links you provide may not refer to this specific product.. but blanket all contact lenses of all quality.

              (I didn't go too far into the links.. or research on Biofinity)

              In any case, I would only follow contact lens advice from an optometrist who can inspect my eyes with the lenses in.. see how they are doing for my specific eyes.

              • shmahoo on 28/09/2010 - 16:21

                @FirstNameLastName: In my experience, professionals (optometrists and ophthalmologists) advice on which CL option "is best" varies greatly with their previous experience. If "tonester" above works in the profession and has had some bad experience with some of his/her patients with their extended wear (eg Biofinity) lenses, then I'd expect him/her to have a guarded opinion about them.

                I can only speak from my learnings, my experience, my observations. I have NO doubt that if the Biofinity type lenses are successful with a patient, that they are DEFINITELY safer as an overall option. The cornea receives more oxygen from wearing extended wear CLs 24 hours a day (without removing) than from wearing standard daily disposables just during daylight hours (for example).

                That is just my opinion, and I strongly respect anyone who has a different opinion.

                But the TWO most important pieces of advice I can offer are:

                1 - deal with an optometrist (usually) who has plenty of experience with these types of lenses. For instance, there are still some optometrists out there who won't prescribe extended wear contact lenses.

                2 - Get your optometrist's opinion about how these contact lenses might work for YOUR eyes for YOUR lifestyle and hobbies etc. Then get your optometrist's opinion again for a few more visits where your optometrist can assess any reaction that your eyes might be exhibiting from the contact lenses.

                Thanks for reading. This information is of general advice only, and your individual situation and circumstances might be completely different.

                • tonester on 28/09/2010 - 17:39

                  @shmahoo: Perhaps I did not come across clearly enough, as it seems that neither of you understood my previous post correctly.

                  The longer you wear any contact lens, the greater the reduction of oxygen to the eye and increased risk of infection by being in touch with it - both results are bad for eye health. Silicon hydrogels generally have the highest oxygen permeability.

                  Disposables minimise the risk from improper handling/cleaning/storage. If you have difficulty following good hygiene practices, then contact lenses might not be suitable.

                  The only valid reason to wear lenses overnight/continuously is if you would like to wake up each day with clear vision and you do not have spectacles.

                  • FirstNameLastName on 28/09/2010 - 21:07

                    @tonester: "If considering laser eye surgery, one might like to keep in mind that most ophthalmologists would choose to wear corrective lenses rather than undergo it themselves."

                    Please tell me how you come to know this. (edit add: Are you in the profession? Know many that are?)
                    Link to a survey or study?

                    • shmahoo on 30/09/2010 - 10:30

                      @FirstNameLastName: And I'll limit my input to one more reply. The new generation of silicon hydrogels allow more oxygen through to the cornea than what it needs for both day time and night time wear. Countless studies have been done on these lenses to prove this. This fact, and other thing is that by not touching your eyes twice a day (inserting and removing CLs) makes this a very attractive modality of vision correction. Like any disposable lens, it can degrade with time, but 30-day contact lenses are still designed so that on day 30, they are still able to provide the performance that is required to maintain optimal eye health.

                      Having said that, I DO have patients who choose not to leave their contact lenses in overnight. Usually, it is a psychological issue - they are just uncomfortable with the IDEA of leaving their lenses in overnight. I repeat that I am fine with this. I just don't like people not trying out this option because they think it is more risky or less safe than traditional daily wear of disposable contact lenses.

                      I am all for informed consent. People need to know the facts. Once they do, I am perfectly OK with any decision they make from then on. That is part of the reason why I frequent these forums, to get good information out there to people who would benefit from it.

                      • tonester on 30/09/2010 - 21:52

                        @shmahoo: I am afraid that not all of your information may be good and it still seems that you have confused the issues.

                        It is common sense that having something touch the eye increases the risk of infection.

                        Research studies confirm conclusively that wearing any contact lens overnight or continuously, regardless of type, presents a greater risk of developing keratitis than compared with on a daily wear basis.

                        Exposure to water while wearing contact lenses, such as when showering or swimming without goggles, also increases the risk.

                        Reducing oxygen to the eye does not increase this risk but can be bad for eye health through hypoxia.

                        Replacing lenses daily is the safest/healthiest frequency because they are sterile when new, but proper cleaning/storage with replacement as recommended is generally adequate enough.

                        .

                        Regarding ophthalmologists and laser eye surgery: yes, there have been formal surveys conducted, and personally, all the ophthalmologists that I know here and overseas, including professors and consultants, would not undergo it themselves (yet).

    • FirstNameLastName on 05/01/2011 - 14:31

      i didn't get a chance to trial them before uni optical school went on break.. now unsure of this new product

  • [Deactivated] on 27/09/2010 - 10:08
    +1

    As much as I like a bargain I also like a good story. The history of the Luxottica group is fantastic. The original founder, Leonardo Del Vecchio, born into a poor family, sent to an orphanage as a kid then started off his career as a metal working apprentice. He decided to take his new skills into making glasses frames and built it into a massive, I mean massive enterprise. Turns over 3 billion p.a and acquired Oakley for 2.1 Billion. He is still the chairman of the board today (aged 75).

    So as quick as we are to knock this massive business I believe its originator is rather worthy of a pat on the back. Just my .02

  • tonester on 27/09/2010 - 11:06
    +2

    For those who are not aware, silicone hydrogels are an Australian invention and generally considered the best (clarity/comfort/health/safety) soft contact lenses.

    Daily replacement:
    Johnson & Johnson 1 Day Acuvue TruEye (3rd)

    Fortnightly replacement - daily wear:
    CooperVision Avaira (3rd)

    Fortnightly replacement - overnight/continuous wear:
    Johnson & Johnson Acuvue Oasys (2nd)

    Monthly replacement - daily wear:
    CIBA Vision Air Optix / O2 Optix (1st)

    Monthly replacement - overnight/continuous wear:
    CooperVision Biofinity (3rd)
    CIBA Vision Focus Night & Day (1st)
    Bausch & Lomb PureVision (1st)

    1st/2nd/3rd refers to generation number of lens material http://www.siliconehydrogels.org/editorials/08_may.asp.

    I have bought O2 Optix for years from http://www.netoptical.com.au (half OPSM's prices) but last time went to http://www.coastalcontacts.com (half of Net Optical's).

  • shmahoo on 30/09/2010 - 10:35
    +2

    I have taken the following quote from www.glassesonline.com.au

    "5. We make no warranty that goods acquired from us over this website will meet your requirements."

    Now, If I tried giving that condition to people who made a purchase from my optometry business, what do you think the response would be?

    Wow!

    Imagine Ford saying "We make no warranty that pressing your foot on the brake pedal will affect the travelling speed of your car in any way. Sorry for any inconvenience."

    or vitamin tablet companies "These tablets may not improve or do anything for you". Hang on, they already say that !!

  • Andrew on 16/11/2010 - 14:22

    great compilation, thanks Stitchy.

  • Simon21 on 17/11/2010 - 17:34

    I love http://www.glassesshop.com
    Fast delivery and quality prescription eyeglasses.

  • twig on 17/11/2010 - 21:01

    One hell of a post Stitchy!
    I'll definitely look here next time I need a pair.

  • FirstNameLastName on 17/11/2010 - 22:10

    thanks for the thanks.. the compilation is made up of everyone's input so i sincerely thank all the contributors.

    buying my first pair of prescription 'sunglasses' online tonight.
    There's not much out there apart from standard frames with a tint option.
    will post when i get them.

    • Mugz on 04/01/2011 - 22:28

      Still haven't got them? :s

      • FirstNameLastName on 05/01/2011 - 14:28

        ahh.. yes.. did… sorry christmas came upon me.

        don't check my po box that often so can't tell how long they took.. less than 2 weeks.

        got them from goggles4u
        came from pakistan.
        packaging similar to typical herion packages you see in 80s-mid90s movies.

        dodgy clip-case.
        cleaning cloth

        shades are damn fine.. nice yellow/brown tint that makes everything feel smooth.
        UV coating of course.
        suit me well

        only problem is.. in certain light i can see slight reflections from around my eyes.
        don't know if this is a general problem with sunnies despite anti-reflective coatings.

  • Aeonx on 17/01/2011 - 21:26

    Hi Stitchy,

    www.eurekaoptical.com - looks like it's no longer in operation. Please remove. Thanks

  • Vavoom on 17/01/2011 - 23:05

    I would put Clearly Contacts into the glasses category as well. Having taken advantage of two of their "Free Glasses" promos and successfully getting nice looking designer glasses, I rank them very highly. They're also very competitive when they have a 50% off deal or a buy one, get one free.

  • FirstNameLastName on 18/01/2011 - 00:17

    I don't seem to be able to edit my OP anymore.
    I assume that Ozbargain has now disallowed this? (time limit?)

    In any case.. It's about time I went and put all this into the wiki.

    Once done.. I'll see if a Mod can change the OP to make it point there for the list.
    We could still keep discussion here.

    or something

  • FirstNameLastName on 18/01/2011 - 02:26
    +1

    === LINKS TO ONLINE CONTACTS/GLASSES RETAILERS ARE NOW IN THE WIKI ===

    please add links to the wiki if you find new decent online stores.

    consider the listing in my OP to be outdated.

    (MOD, if you please, alter my OP to link to the wiki and delete my links.. or whatever clears things up)

    • twig on 18/01/2011 - 08:46

      where is it?
      i cant find it

      • Aeonx on 18/01/2011 - 13:15

        Maybe you need stronger lenses hehe j'k. Wiki is located on top of the screen next to 'Forum'. Otherwise this link will take you straight there - http://www.ozbargain.com.au/wiki/category:health_beauty

        • twig on 18/01/2011 - 13:16

          LOL good call

          bloody hell health and beauty
          the place i didnt look because I thought it'd be full of makeup and hair products

        • issh on 18/01/2011 - 16:39

          thanks

    • [Deactivated] on 03/02/2011 - 10:16

      Stitchy - sorry took some time to find this request - need new glasses LOL (BTW can always request things of mods via talk to Mod) Thanks Shue for saving me looking up the link

  • insertusernamehere on 02/02/2011 - 22:54

    bit of a review:
    ordered from visiondirect.com.au. glasses took about 3 weeks to arrive which wasnt too bad, the prescription lenses though are shocking. dont waste ur time. Got them checked and they were made way too strong and are not wearable. Got the claim back from HCF though so not too bad. I'll get them re-done.

    • FirstNameLastName on 02/02/2011 - 23:11

      cheers for that review.
      I avoided visiondirect.COM.AU on my last purchase and now happy I did so.
      (visiondirect.COM are great, I reckon)

      I just got contact lenses from Quicklens.. took just under a month to get to me.
      too long.. but they were toric lenses and they explained this is why.

      they were packaged well with decent sales receipt.

  • bbourizk on 03/02/2011 - 14:39

    which of these places is best to buy glasses for kids (5yr old girls to be exact)
    she constatly breaks them and are costing a small fortune

    thanks in advance

    • [Deactivated] on 03/02/2011 - 16:03

      I have had experiences with Ausspecs, Zenni and Selectspecs.

      The latter was the cheapest, but with Ausspecs I had to return a pair and there was no hassle being in Australia. If you have Health fund insurance, thats the way to go out of the 3. But with losses and breakage, probably you aren't covered. Selectspecs service was quite fast. (Zenni was fine, just found Selectspecs faster and cheaper)

  • maryrose on 03/02/2011 - 16:54

    I found Ausspecs good to deal with

  • mxyzptik on 16/02/2011 - 17:43
    +1

    Good to find this. 100 points to @Stichy & all contributors. Today my 17yo son found out he needs eyewear for the first time … wants contacts … I guess his age + being a first timer + wanting contacts complicates the process of finding a bargain.

    I'll also be in the market for some cheap-as-possible specs too … so your work couldn't be available at a better time for me. Cheers!

    • issh on 16/02/2011 - 17:45
      +1

      best to 'trial' some contact lens first before buying them online/anywhere else, as some contacts may not be suitable to him(as in preference)

      • mxyzptik on 16/02/2011 - 17:48
        +1

        Cheers! I've quickly read the above .. and will methodically form a plan using this … live across from Melbourne Uni .. so will see if they have any 4th year op students! :)

  • liyanhong2100 on 19/05/2011 - 17:58
    -1

    I had a look at Visiondirect.com in the US - at the moment they have a 20% off first order deal. I want to take advantage of that, but currently they do not ship my particular contacts overseas for some odd reason. Mod: Removed SPAM It is a unique part of the body in that it is the only part of your body apart from some cells in the lungs that do NOT receive their oxygen from the blood supply.

  • imagine1437 on 12/10/2018 - 13:12

    Just a quick comment and it happens to many other online shopping sites as well.

    Quicklens is using .au for the domain name (I guess this is location services). So as a customer who likes to support local business always get fooled by these domain names. I normally found out after the credit card transactions get charged for oversea transaction fee. I do have a credit card without fees attached to my PayPal account but in this case, the misunderstanding of .au has once again trapped me in paying $2 or $3 for bank fee.

    For this particular order, I compared the cost of Quicklens and Specsavers as well, Quicklens was around $20 cheaper (using promo code for Specsavers). The order that was put in on the 1st Oct with Quicklens, is now expecting to arrive on the 16th Oct, shipping from Singapore. So 16 days to get two boxes of contact lenses.

    For this particular example, I regretted that I purchased it through Quicklens. I could have paying a little extra and get my lenses a lot quicker.

    Any tips to avoid such a thing? I have to admit I didn't do enough review before going ahead with Quicklens (first time with them). Sometimes I just don't have time to read all the shipping rules etc.

  • capslock janitor on 05/04/2021 - 13:35

    Awesome guide OP!
    Defo worth being maintained

  • Binggggo on 06/08/2021 - 10:54

    Anyone know an online seller who uses Hoya Workstyle lens options, or similar quality?

  • FirstNameLastName on 21/12/2021 - 18:01

    My OP was locked so I can't edit that info anymore.. refer to the wiki.

  • jinkerjinx on 21/12/2021 - 18:06

    **** WARNING **** Zenni quality no longer reliable. I've had 4 pairs (so far) fracture within hours. Don't know why.. but if you need full rim plastics you may wanna look elsewhere til this is resolved.

    Updates will be posted at https://www.ozbargain.com.au/node/671253

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