Ask MetaFilter questions tagged with glasses

Removing superglue from a glasses lens?

runaway ballista — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 09:12:45 -0800

Long story short, my boyfriend managed to get superglue on one of the lenses of his glasses and it had time to set overnight, and has had no success getting it off with rubbing alcohol or peroxide. He's wary of trying to scrape it off so as not to damage the lens and would like to avoid having to replace the glasses since his prescription is pretty expensive. The frames are plastic so I don't think it'd be much of a problem to have the glasses soak in a solution. Do you guys have any suggestions for a safe-as-possible way to remove the glue without damaging the lens too much, or at least a way to loosen it so that it doesn't involve too much scraping? (Would Goo Gone work on superglue that's on glass?) Or is he pretty much screwed and will need the lens replaced?

DIY Glasses

Spurious — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:11:17 -0800

Can Someone Understand My Glasses Prescriptions? I got a prescription for glasses (so I can drive) that reads:

OD -1.75DS
OS -1.50 -1050 x070 (or it could read OS -1.50 -050 x070)

I would like to purchases glasses from a low-cost online site that requires I fill out an online form with the following fields:

od-sph
od-cyl
od-axis
od-add
os-sph
os-cyl
os-axis
os-add
pd

Can someone tell me how, given my prescription, I should fill out the web form?

Thanks!

Additional graduation gifts to go with a bottle of gin

you're a kitty! — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 09:43:30 -0800

I'm getting my little brother a nice bottle of gin for his graduation, but I'd like to include other side-presents along with it. But what? I'm not a gin drinker! My first reaction was to get him a nice bottle of scotch, but he doesn't like it the way I do. Instead, his alcohol of choice is Hendrick's Gin. I'm getting him a bottle of that, but it's less expensive than the scotch I was originally planning on and I'd like to include some accessories along with it. I don't know much about gin, though - do people ever drink it straight (some posts I saw here suggest as much)? If not, would he need some kind of cocktail tools? I unfortunately don't know any more details of his drinking life, though I suspect he's more of a gin & tonic person than a martini person. What sorts of glasses do people put gin drinks in?
Any and all suggestions would be much appreciated.

Four Eyed Four Year Old

beachhead2 — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 09:35:28 -0800

My 4-year old daughter was diagnosed with accommodative esotropia. Any advice for the mom of an active young'n that will soon be bespectacled? Her right eye has been crossing for a few weeks. She is apparently far sighted and may need bifocals. The doctor said the glasses may actually make the eye crossing worse when she takes off her glasses (but correct it completely when wearing, obviously). The doc also said current surgery is not an option for her.

She is a very active child. She participates in gymnastics and swimming currently...soccer in the spring and fall.

I have worn glasses since I was 8, but I am nearsighted. My eyes are quite bad and have been since then. I remember frustration on my part from dealing with glasses while playing, swimming, etc. I remember frustrated parents, dealing with lost or broken glasses and eventually lost contacts. Any thoughts/ advice is appreciated!

Wide eyeglasses?

tellumo — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 19:33:08 -0800

Can you help me find glasses that fit my head? I've only been able to find a fit with the widest frames available, and finding them has been a matter of trial and error, mostly the latter. My current glasses have a total width of 144 mm, and I think I may be able to go down a millimeter or two, but this is the first time in ages I haven't felt like I need to hack the temple pieces into some bizarre and unlikely shape for my glasses to fit reasonably well. I'd like to have at least one backup pair that fits similarly well.

I'm looking for somewhere I can go, whether online or in or near San Francisco, where I can see a wide range of frames with widths from 142-145 mm, and purchase them at a reasonable price. I want to be able to find frames that will fit me without needing to manually scan a bunch of them, ideally by searching by total width. (This rules out Zenni Optical, for example--I've heard great things about them, but they don't let you search by width and I really don't want to look through a few hundred sets of frames to pull out the ten that would fit me, only to conclude that I don't like any of them. I've had the same problem at the physical optical shops I've visited.)

I used to have a pair with dark green plastic frames, which looked great, so getting into something like that would be excellent. My script is fairly standard; about -4.5 in each eye, a slight astigmatism in one, distance vision only. I don't need exotic lens materials--I've had great luck with plain polycarbonate or CR39 lenses. However, I do want an AR coating.

Ugly dirt marring expensive glasses

castironskillet — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 11:40:22 -0800

How do I keep the bottom edge of my half-frame glasses clean? This is my second set of half-frame glasses. The lenses are held in by means of a length of monofilament attached to each end of the frame and running along a groove in the bottom edge of the lens.

In my last pair, this groove and line collected dirt and became a visible dark line. I got a new pair on Monday and today noticed that there is already a spot of dirt trapped in the groove under the monofilament.

This must be a common problem? Do any of you have half-frame glasses and a successful method for keeping them clean?

Girls who wear glasses...

meindee — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 17:53:16 -0800

Looking for examples of movies in which the heroine takes off her glasses and becomes cool/pretty/better... And ideas for encouraging the practice to stop. I was surprised when Drew Barrymore stooped to this level with the roller derby movie "Whip It!" I'd forgotten about the moment until I bought the soundtrack today and had an Acuvue ad fall in my lap. "How will Acuvue brand contact lenses transform you?" it asked.

I'm disappointed in Drew and not surprised by Acuvue...

Two part question:
1. It seems like I've seen the glasses to contacts ugly duckling scene over and over, but I'm having trouble coming up with examples now that I'm ticked. Anyone?

2. Do any organizations exist specifically for girls who wear glasses? I'd like to volunteer for or donate to one if so. Ideas?

Should I see an opthamologist or an optometrist?

desjardins — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:00:23 -0800

Probably need my first pair of glasses. Haven't had my eyes checked in years. Should I see an opthamologist or an optometrist? My vision is not what it used to be. I look at a computer all day and I'm starting to get eyestrain. Night driving is also more difficult. Should I see an opthamologist just because I haven't had a checkup in awhile? Or is that overkill?

What fun stuff should I know about getting my first pair of glasses? (I'm sure I don't want contacts.)

I'm 35, no known health conditions that would affect vision. I have health/vision insurance.

Help my procrastinating husband see...

thejanna — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 11:54:14 -0800

Can anyone recommend an optometrist in Columbus, Ohio? My husband needs glasses and has been putting it off for years. He would also like contact lenses. Can anyone recommend a good optometrist in Columbus, Ohio who also carries a good selection of frames? Is there anything in particular we should be looking for? He has VSP vision insurance, if that helps.

Fake Coke Bottle Lense Eyewear Quick?

rainbaby — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 07:54:36 -0800

How can I get authentic looking coke bottle eye glasses with no prescription (fake) lenses quick? Website? No Halloween, please. What might be a local source of cheap frames/glasses that could be repurposed?

glasses for big nose

Anonymous — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 08:58:48 -0800

Where can I buy glasses that complement a large nose? Preferably something similar in style to this. Los Angeles area or online.

Ottawoptometrist?

Decimask — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 18:01:15 -0800

Any recommendations for an optometrist in Ottawa? And what pieces of information do I need (which a doc might not give me) to order new glasses online? (sorry, multi-pronged) I've recenly moved to Ottawa and I haven't gotten new glasses (of a different perscription) in about six years. I have gotten my eyes checked regularly, but the decline has been very slow--last time (3 yrs) I was roughly 20/20 with my current scrip on. Computer eyestrain and street signs are telling me it's time to bite the bullet. That and my main pair broke on me last week. 8(

The last optometrist I went to used some kind of testing method I hadn't encountered before--I don't remember much about it other than it was NOT the standard giant mask with the: "Better or worse? Better or worse?" clicking of lens combinations. All I really remember was having to focus my eyes independantly and I *could not* do it. If anyone knows what that is, I'd love a name so I can avoid it.

Last (I think) is what information do I need to have about my eyes in order to be able to order additional pairs from online places? Pupillary distance¹? Skull measurements?

I know there's been some commentary in AskMe about online places and experiences with said, so I'll go looking for past recommendations. New ones always welcome, though.

1 - I know this term because a friend of mine used to work in the production side of optical industry. He also told me how much a plastic lens blank costs, and I've hated the optical industry in Canada ever since.

Help me find these funny glasses

ThePinkSuperhero — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 22:58:12 -0800

Help me find glasses like these in New York City. I need them to complete a Halloween costume, but I'm not seeing them in any of the stores I've visited. The design is unimportant; the important thing is the cardboard eye piece with the hole for seeing.

Already visited: Party City, the costume shop on Broadway between 11th and 12th St, Ricky's, some dollar stores in my neighborhood. Been scanning the drugstores, too, but nothing so far.

I suppose I could buy them online if it comes down to that, but I don't need a dozen pairs and I don't want to pay whatever in shipping for something I would think I could buy in person for a couple of bucks.

Transitioning to transistions: Is it worth it?

Gordion Knott — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 02:33:12 -0800

Glasses wearers: What are the pros and cons of self-darkening "transitions" lenses? I'm interested in transitions (photochromic) lenses--those that darken in the presence of sunlight. Have you been satisfied with the performance of these lenses? Do they darken and lighten adequately, and in an acceptable amount of time? What are your general likes and dislikes regarding them? Are they worth the expense, and what is your advice to a prospective purchaser?

How can I circumvent a crazy doctor?

RajahKing — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 15:15:50 -0800

Can I go around my crazy eye doctor and get the glasses and contacts I need? I have a horrible eye doctor who is doing everything possible to not give me my eye presciption. Total bullies, brazenly overpriced, and it was reconfirmed for me today in my most recent visit. Unfortunately, as I have terrible eyesight combined with an empty wallet, I am in a tough position. I need some hive mind advice, if you can follow this.

After some cajoling, yelling, whining (all on their part) I was able to pull from their cold fingers my a) current eyeglasses prescription and b) my last year's contact prescription.

So I am very nearsighted in both eyes, plus I have severe astigmatism. What I use to function is
a) a standard set of strong eyeglasses, then
b) soft contact lenses
c) with eyeglasses over them to correct the astigmatism.

Here is my question: using my current eyeglass prescription, along with the base curve from last year's contact prescription, can I order new contacts by combining the new prescription with last year's base curve? Or does a base curve change much?

*PS I know the alternative is to go back and get my damn prescription, and I will do so if necessary. I really just want to know if I can do the above and have the satisfaction of never dealing with these creeps again.

Wherefore art thou, sunglasses?

Juliet Banana — Sat, 12 Sep 2009 09:36:49 -0800

I broke my boyfriend's sunglasses while wrestling (no, really). I'm looking for another pair; shape is more important than color. They were purchased at Rag-o-Rama, which is basically the same as Buffalo Exchange or maybe Plato's Closet for hipsters. We no longer live anywhere near Rag, and I'll be sneaking off to sleuth out the local (Lakeview Chicago) resale shops, but I KNOW I've seen glasses like this online.

I've already checked every embarrassing store I can think of that sells cheap accessories for teenagers...Fred Flare, Delia*s, Pac Sun, Wet Seal, Hot Topic, F21, Target...if you can think of stores that sell cheap trendy sunglasses but are too lazy to check their stock, just mention the name.

These are pretty close, but seem too small. These are better, but his only other pair of sunglasses (which he doesn't like as much as the ones I broke, of course) are pink.

They're not Wayfarers. A replacement doesn't have to be exact, but he likes the fact they're larger and rounder than Wayfs, not too girly, and are brightly colored with dark (not mirrored, not clear) lenses. It seems like I saw this style everywhere UNTIL I HAD TO FIND IT, so if you know how to describe the frames, plz do tell kthx.

Costumes for chicks in specs

rachaelfaith — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 21:07:12 -0800

CostumeFilter: Help a spectacled female figure out a great Halloween costume [that features glasses]! So, I wanted to go as Leela from Futurama, but the logistics of creating a single eye and hiding my other two, in addition to my glasses, sort of make it seem awkward and ultimately not workable.

So instead of working around my glasses, I'd like to work with them! Can you think of any women/female characters whose specs are a prominent part of their appearance?

I'd prefer the costume to err on the side of geeky [if I thought I could create a good Zaphod Beeblebrox costume, I would] but I am not opposed to sexy, comical, political, musical or offbeat.

[Photo in profile for reference.]

Who makes the glasses from A Scanner Darkly

Lownotes — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 14:53:27 -0800

In "A Scanner Darkly," Robert Downey Jr. wears a pair of interesting spectacles. Who makes the frames, or who makes a similar version? I would like to buy the frames Robert Downey Jr. wears in "A Scanner Darkly," but I can't Google my way to them. Who makes these or a similar version?

Here are links to images from the film showcasing these frames:

Glasses 1

Glasses 2

Scratched lenses

disillusioned — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 02:43:29 -0800

Is anti-glare and anti-scratch coating worth it to you on eyeglasses? I've been wearing glasses since 4th grade, but this latest set of lenses, for which I opted to get what must have been the most basic offering available, frequently drives me nuts.

I'm probably a year or so into owning these, and they've scratched to hell. That's fine, so have most pairs I've ever had.

What I've noticed is especially bad about these is the glare is obscene. I notice it especially at arena events, but just in general, it's bad news.

The question I'm asking is: what combination of anti-glare/UV/anti-scratch/polycarbonate or whatnot have you found to be the best for your money? Is it worth it to automatically upgrade to their best lens package?

Moreover, is there anywhere great for buying your favorite type of lens online, so that I can pop these out, for a decent price? I have a dual (though uneven) astigmatism, but I doubt that matters much.

Thanks!

Great movie, awesome sunglasses

Groovytimes — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 18:18:01 -0800

Where can I find Ryan Gosling's sunglasses in Half Nelson? I just love the glasses that Ryan wears in this movie. I've searched high and low and can't seem to find a pair like it.

Here here here and here are some shots of them.

This is the closest pair I've found. I ordered them and they're coming in about a week, so I'll tell you guys if they're pretty close or not.

Berkel Aviator

Thanks!

Eric Clapton's Glasses

phunniemee — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 15:58:44 -0800

What kind of glasses is Eric Clapton wearing these days? My buddy would like to know what kind of glasses Eric Clapton is wearing in this picture. Brand, style, etc.

Thanks!

Glasses make you look ...?

comatose — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 07:41:25 -0800

How do you perceive people who wear glasses? Do people who wear glasses notice any difference in how people perceive you when you are wearing them vs. not wearing them? Do glasses wearing people appear intellectual, nerdy, authoritative, geeky, friendly, attractive, boring, sophisticated, arrogant, trustworthy, or are you just indifferent?

I am a younger guy with 20/20 vision but for the longest time I have wanted a pair of glasses with clear lenses. Maybe it is just me, but I make some fairly strong (positive) assumptions when I meet or see someone with glasses. Are your convictions about glasses wearing people as strong as mine or do you not even notice?

Refurbishing my face furniture

mippy — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 04:58:16 -0800

As my new pair of glasses cost me £200 at a high-street optician, I am wondering whether to go online to get a second pair and/or sunglasses. But I have reservations. Your advice and experiences, please? I'm worried that not seeing the frames in person might lead to me getting a bad-quality product, or one that isn't suitable. I'm quite short-sighted (prescription says -4.25, -3.00, and my lenses are as thick as you can get before they need to be thinned down to fit frames) and need to wear mine all the time. The pair I chose this weekend were 'designer' glasses, as I happened to like those frames best, but I'd like a quirky pair (cats eyes), or a coloured frame that I wouldn't necessarily want to wear all the time. I know the kinds of frames that suit me (I can't fit my lenses in wire frames, and I like chunky plastic) but how do I know if particular frames will fit? Is it worth using these services if my eyesight is pretty bad? Should I stick to 'name brand' frames to ensure they're reasonable quality? And finally, my friend with better eyesight used a Chinese site she found to be good, but I'm wary of doing online business with sites littered with typos - any good, reliable sites?

I just found out I have stigmata! Or is that astigmatism? The doctor's writing is kind of blurry.

synecdoche — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:59:49 -0800

So, apparently I need glasses. Where can this Canadian get the best deal on some designer frames? After a visit to the optometrist today, I'm shopping for glasses. I found a pair that I quite like—Armani 500s—but I'm wondering if I can get them any cheaper than the $165 CDN they're charging at the local store. I've scoured previous AskMes and been reading about shopping for glasses online, checked froogle and ebay, and have found cheaper sticker prices but after you factor in shipping and the exchange rate and (I'm assuming) duty, the deal isn't quite so good.

Where do Canadians get their designer frames? Or is there some secret way to find good quality replica frames that will be available on the discount sites that I have read about here? My concern with the online sites are that I can't try on the glasses to make sure they look okay or that the quality won't be so great. Or should I just go and try the cheap glasses they have in so many stores and try to find something to pop my prescription into?

So, I guess my question(s) boil(s) down to:

1) Are designer frames worth the price, or are they just the same as the cheap ones with somebody's famous name on them?

2) If I go for the nice Armani glasses, is there a cheaper place to get them than the store I was in? (Note also that I do not have a Costco membership)

Can I go back to an optician and get a prescription for a different kind of lenses without another exam?

micawber — Sun, 21 Jun 2009 19:47:03 -0800

Yet another optician question. I got a prescription for reading/computer glasses, but I really need progressives (I think) because I can't see anything closeup without the glasses on. But I don't trust my optician. I went to an optician at the beginning of the year and got reading/computer glasses that are great. The issue is, however, that I've finally come to terms that I cannot see ANYTHING close up without the glasses. Even cooking, eating dinner, is more pleasurable with the glasses on because I can actually SEE with clarity.

My distance vision is still fine. The exam confirmed that. And we talked about progressives but I didn't know enough to ask the right questions and I realize that I basically don't trust anyone who is covered by my vision plan (they tried to forcefully push this extended exam on me, and swore it was covered by insurance, and then never called me back to confirm - and when I called myself to confirm I got a runaround, and finally cancelled the exam).

So the question is, can I go back to him and get a prescription for progressives without another exam? I do not trust them to tell me the right thing, and since I have to pay for another exam out of pocket, I would try to find a decent/reputable optometrist in NYC who isn't going to try to sell me the farm. If I have to pay for another exam I will definitely go elsewhere, but if he can get a prescription together with the results of my last exam then I'll go back there, simply because money doesn't grow on trees. He told me, specifically, "If these don't work for you, come back and we'll get you something that does," since the glasses I had gotten the previous year were worthless and I'd gone back to using the previous prescription, and I'd told him that. But, again, he might say "I can't do that" and I need to know if that's true or not.