AMAZING EXPERIENCE!!! BEST service and MOST AWESOME glasses ever!!!! Customer service is above and beyond. Ruth, Kristen, and George are sooooooo friendly and so attentive. Thank you for the best glasses I have ever owned! read more

What a wonderful experience! I was greeted by Brandon and checked in promptly. Even the waiting room is bright airy and clean. I was seen by Dr. Spencer who was clearly knowledgeable. She is awesome! I love when Dr.'s explain what they're doing, the process and causes of what is happening in simple terms and use examples. The optical team is top notch! Cynthia and Summer are experts from selecting frames to what prescription fits best in what frames. They are fun and super sharp!! This is my third year and here and my experience, my husband and my teenage daughter also share this opinion. We Highly recommend, Specs Eye Care! Thanks SEC! See you next year! read more

Dr Byrd is always friendly and thorough. There is an amazing array of frames ( very pricy but gorgeous) . Everyone is helpful.

Went to the store to have glasses adjusted, Had a wonderful experience from this gentleman. Returned after lunch to look carefully at the sale table of frames with lenses. Ruth waited on me and checked me out purchasing 2 pairs. When I got home I realized Ruth had removed both sets of lenses. I made special effort to return before Closing to retrieve the lenses which Ruth had removed without my permission. She immediately began giving me Excuses instead of locating the lenses. After several minutes I left the store for the FIRST time Dissatisfied. In the future, IF I return, I will certainly check before leaving the store to make sure I have the frames and lenses in tact. I had purchased 5 frames from Specs in the past. A very loyal customer... NEVER had this issue before. Sincerely, M. L. 8/15/2024 read more

A lot of places will claim to have great personal service. Specs really does! It's all family, and you feel like you're a part of the family here. Read the other reviews, they all talk about the great experience you will have here. Believe it, it's true. Parked at the door, walked in, was waited on right away. Had broken glasses, and walked out a bit later with repaired glasses. Thanks! read more

I have used Specs since 1995 - through many glasses prescriptions and many fashion periods. They offer the best selection of classic as well as funky frames. They also can do very complex prescriptions, which I have, and their lab is onsite so the turnaround is fast. They are a small, locally owned business and I have dealt with the same 3 ppl there the entire time I've used them. They are not cheap but you get your value out of penny spent there! I used to go to NY to get my glasses. Since finding Specs I can get them here. read more

I have been wearing and purchasing prescribed lenses for more than 45 years. Specs Eye Care was absolutely the worst experience of my 45 years purchasing history. I cannot see when trying on frames, and so I depend upon the assistance of the sales person/owner. Specs does a pushy hard sale. I should have walked out. I was utterly displeased with the frames and could not see well out of the lenses and returned Specs to say that I did not like them and wanted an exchange or refund. I have never been told by a vendor to do what specs told me to do. They said to keep the glasses for another 30 days and wear them every day and then come back if I did not like them. Who tells this to a customer? Take responsibility for your work and correct it until it's done right! The prescription is off. They must not have aligned the pd correctly. Whatever it is, it is totally off. I am walking around like Mr Magoo with a bad set of $800 lenses. Who in the world does anything like this? Who tells this to a customer when not satisfied with keep a product. Needless to say it was my fault. I will never go back and will advise anyone to avoid this vendor.$800 down the drain. I'll try Churches Optical, Costco, Target... anywhere else!!! Can I give them a negative 10?! July 2, 2019 Not surprising, I not heard from Specs regarding this post. Validates my experience. read more

Great selection of frames here! My husband and I went in here since Lenscrafters is just not giving him what he wants in a pair of prescription sunglasses and he approved! They took his prescription and put it on file on our first visit and we found some we liked, but they warranted a bit of conversation as Specs does not submit to insurance. And yes, they are on pricey side. We went ahead and ordered them and they arrived exactly on time and were just what he wanted. I'm writing the review since I bought them for him as a surprise and it went perfectly :) I'm not sure how I can knock them for having expensive glasses (when their selections are arguably better), but I do wish they could rock out the insurance for us. read more

I only came here because I had a LivingSocial, and I'm so glad that LivingSocial allowed me to refund it. Yikes - ultra high-end. Frames range from $250-$500, and lens cost $100-229, depending on astigmatism & thin lenses. The frames are definitely quite nice, but I realized that my taste doesn't veer to the stand-out, unique kind. If you want quality glasses, I'm sure that Specs would be very appropriate. I just couldn't afford to get such pricey glasses when I actually have a fully functional pair. :x Service is good; they're nice, but not pushy, and they're helpful about choosing them. There's also a rack in the corner that has glasses for $100 off. (: read more

Thanks to amazing customer service from Ruth at SPECS, She helped identify why my existing progressives were not working, helped fit new frames exactly to my face, and got me a replacement pair in days (during covid!) I am thrilled, and the high quality lens put the ones I was getting from popular online services to shame. Thank you, thank you!! read more

I had a really disappointing visit to this place. I went to get a pair of eye glasses. The price quoted me was $400 and $100 more for bifocal lenses. I couldn't believe this cost and it was sold HARD! Uncomfortably aggressive. Untrustful used car salesman vibes. So i checked on the some other places. I found some similar glasses for $160. I couldn't believe it. I would advise anyone to avoid this place. I also won't be getting my eye check exams there anymore. I don't trust anyone associated with this place. read more

SPECS is indeed THE BEST IN THE TRIANGLE! For nearly thirty years SPECS has taken care of my every need. George, Ruth, Christian, and Joe have all helped me over the years. Friendly, kind, caring and capable. The best frames. The best service. Whatever you need, just ask Ruth. read more

I had a lens that was coming away from the frame and had to leave the next morning for a work conference. I stopped by in hopes they could help, and - while their equipment wouldn't allow them to repair the frame - they were able to find a cheap discount frame and move the lenses over. They also referred me to someone who could fix my original frames if I wanted to retain them. Super fast, super friendly, and I couldn't be more grateful! read more

[Edited review] I wrote two bad reviews of this business after being physically threatened by someone I thought was the owner. After recently talking to the real owner on the phone I have learned that the person who threatened me was an employee who no longer works there. A problem employee who represented himself as the owner. I believe the real owner. As I told him, I am not going to change my rating to positive because I was threatened in this store, but I understand now that it was an aberration and very unlikely to happen again. Therefore I change my rating to 3-stars. The owner sounded sincere and friendly on the phone and I no longer recommend staying away from this business. In fact, after talking to the real owner I may give the store a try again when I need my glasses changed read more

All three people I came in contact with, Christian, Ruth and a gentleman were extremely helpful and professional! Christian was really patient with me and knowledgeable as I tried on several styles and colors. I love my new glasses and Ruth was great when I brought in old Silhouette frames and suggested different shapes lenses. I highly recommend them. read more

The lens popped off my glasses. Glasses I did not buy there. After finding the lens, I realized I couldn't put it back on because the tiny screw that holds it in place was also missing. I called to ask if they could help, spoke with Ruth, who told me of course they could. When I asked how much it would cost, she said ... "Nothing." So, lens reattached, new screw, and no charge. And all with a very positive attitude. Next time I need glasses, that's where I am going. Thanks, Ruth and Joe! read more

I found Specs through the recommendation of my doctor at Duke Eye Center, and I am SO happy to have found them. I have severe myopia, different prescriptions in each eye, and my eyes wander without correction (apparently making it difficult to correctly identify the transition point for my progressives). This has caused problems for other optical stores, but not at Specs. I get fabulous quality high index progressive lenses at super competitive prices. There are SO many beautiful frames to choose from, including amazing colours and styles. And the customer service is stellar. Ruth has worked with me over the years on a variety of special requests, and both she and George have advised me on frame choices that resulted in me having impressively comfortable glasses that people constantly compliment me on. Buying glasses is a major investment for me, but buying my glasses at Specs makes that experience fun and leaves me feeling really happy with my purchase. I definitely recommend that you check them out. read more

The following is a list of words and phrases that I had not expected to hear from in an optometry today (in this order): * Assault Rifles * Robots in Space * Dog Shit * Pedophiles * Semen * Singularity * The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo * Dismemberment * Bipolar * Dandelions * Chinese Space Tourism * Chick Flicks * Private Jetliner * You May Need Glasses And yet, all of those were uttered some time during the course of my 30 minutes appointment. Made reading those little letters a lot more interesting, though. That is all. read more

First time there, I walked in and I was asked if I could wait 15 mins while they finish with another client. I specifically said I just needed to discuss if they took my eye insurance and schedule an appointment for an exam. They suggested to walk around the mall for 15 mins, but I decided to stay. After 40 mins of waiting patiently I asked how much longer, and the man said 5 more minutes. After 10 minutes he comes to me and said , sorry I have to solve this issue of this other client, I will not be able to assist you...wow.... of course I'm never coming back read more

Great experience - brought in a few pairs of glasses for donation which they happily accepted for the Lions Club and a few pairs of sunglasses for repair. They fixed everything in minutes - even the pair that I thought should probably just be tossed! And they were kind and professional. Thank you!! read more

Most excellent selection of quality frames including unusually "high design" styles that will cost more. I walked in with three pairs of glasses; two of which I did not buy from Specs. The person behind the counter refit all three pairs and replaced the pads on one pair. When I asked how much--he says nothing. It turns out it was George--the owner. The frames I purchased are the nicest frames I've had in more than 50 years. I've branded myself with these frames. I think that sometimes there are firestorms on social media and they just grow when they should not. It appears to me that many of the bad reviews were made by people that would have been equally unhappy wherever they shop. I highly recommend Specs as do my friends who told me about them as well as my eye doctor. read more

If you visit to look at their awesome frames and the owner George is there, turn around and leave quickly! He is bold, rude and will not leave you alone. If you don't agree or like his suggestions he will tell you you are wasting his time because he knows you aren't going to buy anything!!! After a few words back and forth, I left but not without saying he was an asshole, he followed me out to my car and stood next to it with phone in hand as if he was talking a picture of my license plate. Really?! read more

I've been a loyal Specs customer for years and just read through these reviews. I'm stunned. I've purchased....3 pairs of frames and lots of lenses (usually replace lenses yearly in sunglasses and regular glasses) from them over the last 9 years. I've never had to wait for service, or at least an acknowledgement if they were busy. Yes, the prices are on the high end, but they don't carry your average optician lines. I don't make a ton of money and I don't spend a lot on myself, but since I wear my glasses all day, every day, that is one place that I"m happy to splurge a little. I have vision insurance through work (Specs doesn't file claims so you have to submit your receipts) and so my reimbursement at any out-of-network provider is lower. I get it and at least once, I've purchased my frames from them and then had my lenses done by an in-network provider. However I'll warn you, that may save you $$$, but it cost me several weeks of extra time. My in-network provider had to remake the lenses 3 times to get them to look semi ok fitting in the frames. My Specs lens come out beautifully each time. I miss Eduardo. He was a gem of an employee. But everyone else is lovely and super helpful. This is the kind of business that once they've seen you a couple of times, they will know your name for life. They will ask about your family, etc. They actually care. Yes, it's a niche business and as such, isn't for everyone, but they've carved out a wonderful, unique business and I LOVE having them so close. Just to close, eye glass frames are god awful expensive. If you look at the prices of frames online or at other shops, I think you'll find the pricing actually comparable. But what isn't comparable is the service. Specs is hands down, absolutely fabulous. The quality, care, and workmanship is top notch. They will happily adjust frames, swap nose pieces, and help you get out of the horrible rut of boring glasses. This is a small business who doesn't do the volume of a big box store so they won't be able to offer some of the discounts or return policies of a chain--I get that and I don't expect them to. If you want cheap, go online. But if you want sexy, sassy, smart, fun, or unique, then definitely check out Specs. read more

I have been going to Specs for many years, for both me and my kids. This is not the place to go if all you need is a cheap pair of glasses. But it is exactly where to go for a great local family business that has employees who know their stuff and want to make sure you get a great pair of glasses. Today I walked in and was helped by the owner himself, George. He found out what I needed, helped me pick out glasses that fit my face and felt comfortable, and also (because I was interested, and because I'm now old enough to need them) explained how progressive lenses worked. I ended up with a fantastic pair of glasses, and I totally enjoyed the experience. Every time I walk in there, I walk out happy. But again--if all you need is a pair of glasses, you may be better served by many other places. When I had a simple prescription that lasted for years, Costco was fine. But the worse my vision gets, the more I rely on Specs. Top-of-the-line, professional service, and for me it's worth the investment. read more

Perhaps this is not the time to mention Specs' insulting preppy-oriented series of ads that mock the unbeautiful of this world. But one visit to Specs will certainly convince you -- this shop is geared to the very rich only. Their prices are very high, but that's not the only reason. Specs does NOT accept any form of insurance. So only the very rich are welcome. If that's someone's idea of class, fine. I personally find it objectionably arrogant. read more

I got a groupon for them, and I like my glasses that I got. However, the frames are plastic, and they stretch easily with my prescription (I'm very nearsighted), so I've had to go back to get the glasses readjusted. I think this is true for plastic frames across the board, but that's much of what Specs carries since they are so trendy right now. Also, I was really surprised by how much my glasses cost, even with the $200 groupon. After the frames and the lenses (but no exam), I spent another $400. That was a lot for me! read more

The only reason that I am not giving SPECS 5 stars is that they do tend to be on the upper end of my price range. But, you know that going in, so no surprise. They also don't accept insurance, which means you will have to file your own claim. That being said, they offer a great selection of some of the hippest and highest quality glasses in the triangle. They also offer amazing service. I got my first pair of glasses this year (at age 26) and I was feeling pretty crappy about it. The representative helped me try on every frame in the store until I found one that I liked. About 7 months later, both lenses developed chips right at the bridge. I brought them back and they agreed to replace the lenses for free. When they replaced them (and they immediately chipped again in the opticians hands) they realized that the lens material was not strong enough for these frames and so they ordered me upgraded (more expensive) lenses for free-- plus offered me $100 off my next pair of glasses to make up for the inconvenience! I have been to a number of other shops and have yet to find any that match the service and style of Specs. read more

They have nice frames but their prices are way over the top, the lenses suck and the guy and girl were arrogant. A few years ago a friend and I spent literally over $2000 on eyeglasses and sunglass lenses, we were both dissappointed in the leanses, honestly Lenscrafter were better, REALLY! I walked in there the other day, I heard they changed companies who do their lenses, and I had a new eye prescription and needed new lenses in their frames, so I thought I might get a decent price and give them another shot. First the door was locked, it was after 11am, they open ay 10am, oops he said forgot to open the door. Then it felt like pulling teeth to get help. Iasked about frames for a more minamalistic look, I got nuthin from them, almost a sneer... They suck at customer service on top of quoting me well over $400 just for one pair of lenses. Go somewhere else people, they are not customer focused at all and act like they're doing you the favor! You can tell George (owner) isn't there anymore. At least he was effusive and attentive. read more

I was in the market for another pair of glasses. First, because my prescription changed and second because I has "extra" money in my flex account. I attempted to find a pair of glasses in the store front of my doctors office, but I could not find anything that I loved. I remembered that I had the same situation a few years ago. I went into Specs "just to look" and came out with a pair of glasses that I loved. Yes, they were expensive glasses, but worth every penny. So, here I am again. This time I told the sales person that I had a budget. She found my perfect pair!! Again! The sales person also spoke with me about my different lens options (bifocal vs progressive). I love this place. read more

I went back one day to take a picture of some glasses I wanted. Christian greeted me and was helpful. She was so nice that we ended up chatting a bit and I told her about my first experience there. She couldn't believe it and was very apologetic. I ended up ordering my glasses from her and love them!! I've been back a few times since just looking at different frames and the service in general has changed...for better of course. :). The reasons they get 3 stars are 1) prices are high and 2) no sort of warranty is offered - even if you pay for one like at lens crafters. I don't mind paying more for unique glasses but they don't take insurance. Other than that I totally recommend a visit! read more

It's disheartening to read the nasty comments (& what sound like legitimately awful experiences) from others. In (honestly!) 20+ years, I've had nothing but flawless, over-the-top, innovative service from Specs for both sales & service. In last 5 years: - Graciously allowed me to reuse old frames for new 'script/lenses - Alerted me to warrantee coverage to replace a chipped lens from tapping it on porcelain - Replace both lenses in a pair where tiny cracks formed around mounting screws - Gave me the Groupon discount explicitly for just 1st time customers - Repaired (replaced hinge) for trivial fee after, well, sleeping on it - Routinely adjusted askew & replaced worn nose pads Above all, they're NON-pushy, always soft-spoken, supportive & v-e-r-y courteous. They also do seem to have more of high tech frames than others, but I feel pretty committed to my customer relations, about every 2+ years. read more

For the past few years I have been getting exams and glasses done at places that I have not been satisfied with. I found Specs by chance. When I went in I had a very attentive man pick out great frames that fit my face perfectly! Yes they are pricey, but these frames will be on my face from now on all the time so I think the price is worth it. The service was excellent. I was surprised when I got home and saw the negative reviews. Then there was a part of the review section that said "the following reviews are not recommended" so I clicked on them and they were mostly positive. So I think Yelp is keeping the good ones behind the bad. read more

Very good selection of glasses- range of styles. Traditional and contemporary. Ruth was very helpful. Rare to find some who made great suggestions and was honest. Highly recommend. read more

So just sat on my first pair of (quasi-expensive) eyeglasses during a conference call. Called Specs up and spoke with Doug, who told me to bring them right over and he'd take a look. 10 minutes later I had perfectly fixed glasses - no appointment. Doug was super fast and helpful! They earned a customer today. :) Thanks Doug and Specs! read more

I am thankful to find such a professional group to take of my vision needs. They do eye exams and lens grinding right on the premises! They had a good selection of frames to pick from and worked with me to find the perfect fit. You will not find a more caring and patient team. I would highly recommend them! read more

I moved to Durham, NC in 1994 and Specs (then on 9th Street) immediately became my go to place for glasses, contact lenses, readers, and sunglasses -and still is! I love their selection of quality, fashionable eyewear, the fact that my prescription is always completed accurately & in a timely manner, and the warmth and friendliness of the staff as they help me select the glasses that best fit my look & lifestyle. Recently, when my daughter & husband needed glasses, we headed to Specs, where superb service & good looking frames made them both big fans, too! Thank you, Specs! You're the best! read more

Specs has been doing my eye glasses since at least 2000, and wow, do they ever do a great job. They have a super selection of frames, and George, Doug, and Ruth all do an outstanding job of making sure that you pick frames that are flattering, work with your prescription, and fit your face. Amazing customer service -- I broke the side piece of a pair of glasses that no longer was in production, and Ruth contacted the factory in Germany and got a replacement for me at no charge. The location near Southpointe is not as convenient for me as the previous site on 9th Street, but I make the trek anyhow; I can't imagine going anywhere else. read more

I've been coming to Specs for my glasses for years because of the unique selection of frames and the expert advice on what frame looks good on me. I had never gotten compliments on my glasses until I started coming to Specs. You will always feel welcome and never leave disappointed. Plus, as opposed to most places where you never see the same person twice, I have worked with the same folks at Specs from day one. read more

These folks are great. We were there on a busy day, I felt well cared for and not rushed. They took the time to help me find the perfect frames for me and now I have great glasses. Consummate professionals. I will definitely be back! read more

This is the best place to get an amazing selection of frames for your glasses. The staff is extremely helpful, knowledgeable and courteous. They have your glasses made in record time. I only go to Specs and would not think of going to another place. read more