“New” Glasses

I bought a pair of vintage (1950s) frames from another vendor on Etsy a few months back, and recently set about having them filled with my own Rx. I’ve done this before locally, but this time around no lab wanted to take the risk. I called perhaps a dozen places in various price ranges, and every single person I spoke with was full of hesitation and quick to remind me that I would have to pay a pattern fee on top of the cost of the lenses, since I wasn’t using any of their frames. The rep from 39DollarGlasses was, without a doubt, the most optimistic about the task at hand. Yes, I would have to sign a waiver, but this was the first person who assured me that they had confidence and would take good care of my frames. He even encouraged me to fill out detailed information about minutia such as any loose screws or anything else that the techs should be careful of. I felt so much more convinced about sending off my irreplaceable frames to a discounter after that one phone call! Still, I had my doubts. I mean, really. $39? For polycarb lenses in customer-provided frames? By mail?

My finished glasses arrived today, in a simple padded manilla envelope. Tucked into my packing slip is a clear vinyl credit card-sized envelope, which contains a lens cleaning cloth and a micro screwdriver with a keychain loop. Also inside this homely wrapper is a brand-spankin’-new black satin-covered hard case. But that’s not enough protection for 39DollarGlasses, no. Within the hard case is a microfiber drawstring pouch, and inside THAT are my glasses. Which are completely intact, exactly as I sent them. But, you know, with my Rx in the lenses. (The obnoxiously thick lenses, because even with polycarbonate plastic, my “stout” prescription pushes the boundaries of modern technology. I know, I know, I should splurge on High Index lenses, but I rely primarily on contact lenses and the expense of fancy glasses isn’t rational in my case.)

I am ecstatic. I don’t know how they do it, but they do, and with good customer service. Thanks!

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TRUTH IN BLOGGING: 39DollarGlasses.com had absolutely nothing to do with this post, aside from impressing me with actual customer service. They have no idea that I even write a blog, until I send them this link as a form of thank-you letter. Also, the American Optical ad used above is from, and links to, the mind-boggling collection of mid-century imagery at Plan59.com and you should go there right away if you don’t already have it bookmarked.