Why is it important not to buy frames online, what are the pitfalls of buying frames online?
Online shopping is now part of our everyday lives: clothes, furniture, electronics and even food are just a few clicks away. It’s no wonder that glasses and frames are now also available in online shops. At first glance, it can be tempting to order online, it often seems faster and cheaper. But what looks convenient in practice can easily bring annoyance and, more importantly, put your eyesight at risk.
1. Size problems
A spectacle frame is not just a fashion accessory: it’s an optical aid that needs to be adjusted to your face to the millimetre. The size of a frame is determined not only by the width of the lens, but also by the size of the nose bridge, the stem length and the ratio between them. If they are not perfectly aligned:
- can press your nose or your temples
- the frame may slip or be too tight
- the optical centre of the lens will not be in front of your pupil, which can reduce visual comfort
The “virtual test” available on our site is good for visuals, but it can’t show you how well the frame will actually fit your face. And in the long run, the discomfort is not only distracting, it also affects the quality of your vision.
2. Material quality
A frame on the screen can have any premium effect. In reality, however, the differences in material quality, craftsmanship and durability can only be seen when you hold it in your hand.
A lower quality frame:
- deforms or breaks easily
- may cause an allergic reaction (e.g. in the case of nickel allergy)
- can quickly lose its colour or shine
You can pick up and try on a frame in an optical shop, so you can be sure of both quality and comfort.
3. Authenticity and guarantee, not just a logo
The internet is full of fakes. The value of a branded frame lies not only in the logo, but also in the quality control, precise fitting and durability. Optical shops will provide you with a certificate of authenticity and a full guarantee. This is important because:
- if there is a manufacturing defect, they are repaired or replaced immediately
- you don’t have to wait weeks for a claim to be processed
- you can be sure you are getting a genuine, quality product
4. Guaranteed administration instead of long waits Instant help
When buying online, it can take weeks to replace or repair a faulty frame. In the meantime, you’re left without glasses, causing daily inconvenience. At opticians, warranty repairs or frame replacements are done quickly, on the spot, often in a few days.
What’s more, if the frame breaks and it has an expensive, custom-made lens inside, you can easily lose out when buying online: if the type is discontinued, you can’t put the lens back in the new frame, so you have to have a new one made, at considerable extra cost.
5. Accurate dioptre and lens fitting
Our vision is unique and constantly changing. Historical test data may not be accurate, especially if you are using months or years of measurements.
In an optical shop:
- a fresh test with personalised dioptres
- the pupil distance (PD) and the centre of the lens are precisely adjusted
- they adapt the lens to your specific needs (work, sports, computer use)
Without them, incorrect dioptres can cause headaches in the short term and vision loss in the long term.
6. Professional advice and personal contact
An optician doesn’t just sell glasses, they are a professional partner in protecting your vision. They know your face shape, what fits well and what type of lens is right for your work and lifestyle. If you ever have a problem, you can ask a personal question, get an answer and a solution immediately.
Glasses are not a product to buy “on the basis of a picture”. The right size, material, quality, dioptre and lens fitting all require personal professional work. Buying online leaves out these steps and the end result is often a compromise – at the expense of your comfort, your vision and your wallet.
Your eyesight deserves personalised attention – that’s why it’s best to choose and have your glasses made in our specialist shop. That way you can be sure that the end result is comfortable, durable and provides perfect vision. Book an appointment with us!
