20thcenturyspecs - Frequently Ask Question List
Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions. Here you’ll find answers to the most common queries about our eyewear, shipping, returns and more. If your question isn’t listed, feel free to get in touch .
Product Information
Most of our frames are pre-owned and in good to excellent condition. Some may be ex-display. Any visible signs of previous use — such as surface scratches, wear on nose pads, or faded logos — are clearly shown in the photos and reflected in the price.
See also: How We Clean and Quality-Check Every Used Frame at Nosey Specs (Click here..)
Yes. All of our eyewear is 100% authentic. We source stock from reputable UK and EU wholesalers, distributors, and optician overstock.
Some frames include demo lenses (non-prescription). Others may still have prescription lenses from the previous owner. In all cases, you’ll need to have your own prescription lenses fitted by an optician.
In almost all cases the answer to that questions is, no. Not unless you find the same model glasses in the same size as the previous pair that the lenses came out of. Your old lenses would need to match the curvature, size and fitting of the new frame, and that would mean that they would need to be the exact same shape and that is very unlikely an optician may be able to transfer them.
See also: Can You Reuse Lenses in New Frames? (Click here..).
Most product descriptions include: • Lens width (e.g. 52mm) • Bridge width (e.g. 18mm) • Temple length (e.g. 140mm) If a measurement is missing, search the model number online or compare with a similar frame you already own. As a general guide: Frame Width ≈ (Lens Width × 2) + Bridge Width + 5mm.
Most prescriptions will fit our frames. If you require thick lenses, high-index, or progressive (varifocal) lenses, check with your optician before purchase to ensure compatibility.
No. Contact lens prescriptions differ from glasses prescriptions in both values and purpose. You’ll need a separate glasses prescription from your optician.
See also: Can I Use My Contact Lens Prescription for Glasses? (Click here..)
Unless stated otherwise, frames are sold without accessories. Cases and cloths can be purchased separately on our site.
We aim to photograph items as clearly and accurately as possible under consistent lighting. However, colours may appear slightly different due to lighting or your screen settings.
Use warm water and a drop of mild washing-up liquid. Avoid using alcohol wipes, acetone, or other harsh cleaners unless advised by your optician. Dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
See also: How to Clean Glasses Properly Without Damaging the Frame (Click here..)
No, we do not offer a repair service. For damage or adjustments, we recommend visiting a local optician or glasses repair specialist.
Some opticians and charities accept glasses for recycling or reuse. You can also repurpose metal or acetate parts through specialist recycling schemes.
See also: What to Do with Old Glasses: Where to Recycle (Click here..)
Orders & Delivery
• Orders placed Monday to Friday before 8am are dispatched the same day. • Orders placed Monday to Thursday after 8am are dispatched the following day (2–3pm). • Weekend orders (Friday 8am – Monday 8am) are dispatched on Monday afternoon.
Estimated delivery times: • UK: 1–3 business days • Europe: 3–5 business days • USA/Canada: 6–10 business days • Australia: 7–14 business days Please note: These are estimates. Delays can occur due to customs, weather, or postal disruption.
If your parcel is only slightly overdue, it may still be in transit. If it’s more than 3 days late (UK) or 5 days late (international), contact us and we’ll help track it down.
Yes. If you order multiple items, we will combine shipping where possible and refund any excess postage.
No. We do not offer in-person collection. All orders are sent via tracked Royal Mail or courier services.
Returns & Refunds
Use the instructions on your order confirmation, or contact us directly. We’ll guide you through the return process.
Yes. Once we’ve received the item back in its original condition, you’ll receive a full refund. If the item has been damaged or altered, deductions may apply.
General Questions
We keep prices low by selling pre-owned, surplus and discontinued eyewear. For multiple purchases, we may be able to offer a combined price. Feel free to message us before placing your order.
We specialise in second-hand, ex-display, and overstock frames. By buying reused and reloved eyewear, you save money and reduce waste — without compromising on quality.
See also: Why Buying Used Glasses Is Smarter Than You Think (Click here..)
Yes. We ship worldwide. If your country isn’t listed at checkout, contact us and we’ll check shipping options for you.