Frequently Asked Questions
1) What does “Dispensing only opticians,” mean?
“Dispensing only opticians,” means that our opticians and dispensing staff specialise solely in the supply (dispensing) and fitting of prescription spectacles. We do not carry out sight tests; we leave that to your optometrist. Your optometrist will issue you with your prescription and your prescription shows all the information that we need to make up your glasses whether they are single vision, bifocals or varifocals. All you have to do is bring your current prescription to us, choose your frames and lenses and we’ll do the rest.
2) So I have to bring my ‘current’ prescription does that mean my prescription expires?
Yes. Most individuals’ eyes need to be tested every two years to see if there has been a change in prescription. Some people, particularly those with a family history of glaucoma or diabetes, require an annual recheck and this is usually shown on your prescription. For this reason we are not able to make up spectacles for you if your prescription is older than two years (or one for those of you on a 1 year recall).
If you think that you may be due for an eye check then we recommend that you contact your optometrist and arrange a sight test before bringing your prescription to us.
3) Do you sell varifocal lenses?
Yes, we offer on our pricelist a huge selection of lenses this include single vision, bifocal and varifocal lenses. Our pricelist is shown on our pricelist page (link) and you will see we offer both branded and unbranded lenses. If you can’t see on our pricelist the exact lens that you are looking for don’t worry because there is every chance that we can supply you the lens. Just contact us either by e–mail on enquiries@thespecsfactory.co.uk, by telephone on 01603 613671, or come in to see us and we will be happy to give you a price for your required lenses.
4) How long will my glasses take to be made?
The length of time that your glasses take to make depends on your specific requirements. For single vision glasses we estimate that your glasses will take a week. For varifocals and bifocals we allow between a week and two weeks. It is possible that we will be able to make your spectacles in a much shorter frame if we have your lenses in stock.
5) Can you make varifocals while I wait?
Unfortunately it is not possible for us to make varifocals or bifocals while you wait because they have to be custom made to your prescription. If you are in a hurry for your spectacles then we will do everything possible to meet your needs. If you require single vision glasses for reading or distance only then it is possible that we could make your spectacles on the day of your order but it is not possible to guarantee it until we know your prescription and your frame and lens choices.
6) Do you supply branded frames and lenses?
Yes, we supply the following brands of frames: Prada, D&G, Ray–Ban, Jaeger, X–Eyes, Donna Karan, DKNY. We stock a large selection of frames from each brand but, obviously, it is not possible to stock every model and every colour available so if you have seen a specific frame that you like then note down the model number and contact us to check it’s availability. There is every chance that we will have the frame in stock and if we do not we can usually have your desired frame delivered to us within a week.
We are able to offer most branded lenses in various materials and coating combinations. You will see that we show some of the popular Essilor and Zeiss varifocal lenses in our pricelist. If you would like another brand of lens we are happy to give you a price on application. Please contact us on 01603 613671 or e–mail enquiries@thespecsfactory.co.uk.
7) Can you use my contact lens prescription to make up spectacles for me?
Unfortunately we cannot use your contact lens prescription to make up spectacles. They are not the same. Your contact lens prescription does not give us all of the information that we require to make up spectacles.
8) Do you accept NHS vouchers?
Yes. We are happy to accept NHS vouchers. If you are entitled to an NHS voucher then your optometrist will issue you with it during your sight test. Bring your voucher with you when you come to purchase your spectacles and we will assist you with filling out the form and deduct the voucher value from your purchase cost. Our glasses are such good value that your voucher may even cover the whole cost of your glasses.
9) Do you offer any guarantees?
Yes, all of our glasses have a one–year guarantee against manufacturer defects on frames and lenses. We also pride ourselves on ensuring that you are completely satisfied with your spectacles from The Specs Factory. If you ever have any trouble with your glasses whether it’s with edge distortion from your varifocals or with your reading glasses slip down your face you are always welcome to bring your glasses in so we can resolve the problem/advise on the best course of action.








