How much value do you place on your vision? During a recent trip to a local eyewear shop, I found that my eyesight remained an exceptional 20/20. Despite this, I sought the help of an optometrist due to the harsh eye strain and unrelenting headaches that came along with my extensive laptop use. After running some tests, she alluded to weariness in my eyes, a consequence of long-term computer use, as the root of these issues.
She presented two solutions: reduce screen time— an impractical option considering my work circumstances — or acquire non-prescription glasses with anti-reflective lenses to alleviate monitor glare. The latter immediately appealed to me.
ENCHANTED INTO UPSCALE
After presenting my options, I was ushered into the care of two appealing assistants while she attended to another client. Their charm was unmistakably persuasive, effectively guiding me towards the priciest transition lenses to pair with a high-end titanium frame.
Resisting the call of brand-name wasn’t easy, especially given the compelling environment. Eventually, I caved, shelling out $100 for the lenses and treating myself to a $200 frame that was surprisingly on sale. Looking back, it’s somewhat absurd given these weren’t even prescription glasses. Nonetheless, my newfound accessory suits me, lending a touch of trendy sophistication — even if it implies succumbing to age-old sales tactics.
MONOPOLY IN THE SPECTACLE WORLD
What gripped me during my quest for designer frames was the realisation that I had no actual choice. Why? Because Italian company Luxottica manufactures virtually every popular brand. Their dominance extends from owning and producing brands such as Oakley and RayBan, to luxury marques like Prada, Gucci, Versace, Burberry, and Paul Smith.
They also own retail giants such as Lenscrafters, Sunglass Hut, Sears Optical and Target Optical, enabling a stronghold over eye care product pricing. It’s little surprise then that Oakley, once independent, had no choice but to capitulate to Luxottica after sales plunged due to their monopoly-controlled store chains boycotting the brand.
DISCOVERING GENUINE VALUE IN EYEGLASSES
Designer frames are usually marked up 20 times their manufacturing cost in Luxottica owned stores, as per Business Insider. Despite the hefty price tag, the additional cost of prescription lenses is yet another burden to bear. Thankfully, more cost-effective alternatives exist.
Pursuing independent optometrists who are less driven by sales and more by patients’ wellbeing is a wise move. They can provide prescriptions, enabling you to purchase your desired frames at reasonable rates online. Remember to request essential information such as pupillary distance, OD, and OS to complete your online purchase.
CONCLUDING THOUGHTS
Avoid falling into the branded eyewear trap; it’s an unnecessary drain on your resources. My own experience shows how frivolous optional extras can be; the transition functionality of my $300 computer glasses is seldom needed in the comfort of my home. Nowadays, affordable prescription glasses are available online for as little as $40. Crowdsourcing brand Warby Parker sells stylish eyeglasses starting at $95 and runs a philanthropic program, donating eyewear to those who need but can’t afford it. Invest wisely; a little research can result in significant savings.
