Single vision lens
In 99% of cases this is what first-time wearers will require. As the phrase suggests, single vision lenses offer a single focal power and correct close-up or distance vision. Typically, single vision lenses are worn for reading if you are long sighted or presbyopic and for distance if you are short sighted.
Bifocal lenses
There will come a time in your life when you may need glasses to improve both close-up and distance vision. One option is to carry two pairs of spectacles around but this can be both inconvenient and frustrating. Bifocals are two lenses in one, enabling the wearer to see clearly at close-up and distance, but not inbetween.
Varifocal lenses
Sometimes known as “bifocals without the line”, varifocals are, in fact, much more as they offer complete vision at all distances including the intermediate range between close-up and distance. As they have no visible dividing lines, they are cosmetically better than bifocals.
Light sensitive
There are now light-sensitive lenses that react so quickly and efficiently to changing light conditions you can wear them anywhere from a sunny beach, working in the office or reading a book. In short, they are light when they need to be, at night or indoors, but darken when they need to be in the sun. They also provide 100% protection against the sun’s harmful UVA/UVB rays.
Thinner and lighter lenses
You may have noticed some people’s lenses look thick or bulbous. There are many lenses which are now available in denser materials than ordinary plastic or glass. This enables us to greatly improve the appearance of higher powered lenses. In addition, aspheric surfaces are used which result in a thinner, flatter lens offering excellent visual acuity, even in peripheral vision. Such lenses result in lighter, more comfortable spectacles and a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Companies such as Nikon and Pentax specialise in this area.
In our workshop, rather than cutting standard ‘off the shelf’ lenses to fit your frame, we are able to caculate the smallest lens form for your frame, resulting in a thinner, lighter lens.
Lens coatings
Anti-reflection coatings allow more light to pass through the lens enabling it to appear clearer. They all but eliminate reflections with 99% of light entering the eye. The lack of annoying reflections makes everyday tasks far easier, such as helping to eliminate headlight glare when driving at night. They are particularly effective on high-powered lenses. Hard coats protect the lens from minor abrasions, keeping the lens clearer for longer.