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Mon-Sat 12 pm - 8 pm
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$$
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56 reviews for Labrabbit Optics
Review Highlights
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"Can't wait to pick up my new frames next week." In 40 reviews -
"I wish I needed another pair of glasses, it was so much fun..." In 12 reviews -
"...hard-to-find frames, incredible handmade lenses and at an..." In 19 reviews
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56 reviews in English
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Review from Steve U.
Chicago, IL
I have never seen more clearly from any pair of glasses or contacts in my entire life.
Coyote is a very kind guy and a master at what he does.
The frames in the shop are incredible. -
Review from Ashley L.
Labrabbit is about as good as it gets.
Amazing and extensive meticulous selection of rare+deadstock vintage frames. Prices are very reasonable. Coyote (owner) is amazing; super friendly and extremely knowledgeable. Left with two frames and couldn't be more in love!
Check it out, you won't regret it. -
Review from RJ W.
Indianapolis, IN
Yesterday was my first time purchasing eye ware. Coyote, the owner of Labrabbit, is a regular at the business I run so of course I paid them a visit when needing eye ware. I had absolutely no clue what I was looking for or what I wanted and I had anticipated paying $500+ for a pair of glasses. Not only was I pleasantly surprised to find out I would be spending half of that on lenses and frames but his selection is excellent. Nothing conservative about it. Lots of vintage frames and lots of contemporary, dare I say "hipster" selections.
Thanks for the help! -
Review from Yoonz H.
San Ramon, CA
Labrabbit you the best!
I love love love love my cazals.xoxoxoxoxooxo -
Review from christine r.
Chicago, IL
There's not much I can say about Coyote/Labrabbit Optics that hasn't already been said. The shop is filled with tons of fun, funky and unique frames. I had fun trying practically everything in the shop on. Coyote was great at directing me to things that I might like.
I found a great pair of frames by DRIFT, which is a local business making awesome frames with wood temples. Coyote was very patient with me and switched out several pairs of temples so I could see how they looked on the different frame fronts. Once I decided which ones I wanted, he meticulously took measurements of my face to ensure I got the perfect fit.
After just one short week of eager anticipation, I got a text letting me know they were ready. Once again, Coyote meticulously checked the frames on my face and fine tuned the frames to make sure they fit perfectly.
I have never been so in love with my eye-wear before. Highly recommended! And the fact that I got frames that are completely local was the frosting on this perfect cake. -
Review from Gina S.
I put five stars but there really should be six. I just spent a few hours in Labrabbit, and left happy, buzzed, and excited to pick up my new pair of glasses next week!
After stepping on, and snapping in half, my five-year-old frames, I immediately went to Yelp for assistance. Kent S.'s review for Labrabbit caught my attention, and after checking out their website, seeing some amazing frames and an ad for 30% off on black Friday, I was like..yup! Plus, walking distance from my house. Bonus.
I arrived and was greeted by Coyote, who I recognized from the site. I took about an hour on my own going through his large assortment of vintage and one-of-a-kind frames, and picked out a few that I liked. This was not an easy task (in a good way). There were so many that I fell in love with.
Oh and I was offered a drink when I walked in. A rather large pour of Macallan 12 year anyone? The best way to shop.
Coyote gave me advice on the size and shape of the frames I should get based on my prescription (I'm quite blind so he suggested smaller frames due to the thickness of the lens). Then, he sifted through his collection to help me find some solid options. I ended up finding the perfect pair in the group he pulled out.
The fitting process was quick and professional. The prices are great. I can't stress enough how fucking great this place is. Can't wait to pick up my new frames next week! -
Review from Paddy K.
Wicker Park, Chicago, IL
I went here after checking out some frames at the Dose market and was really impressed with the unique selection. I also really liked the owner, who seemed super knowledgeable and interested in his clientele's wants and needs. I decided to check out the store and was prepared to spend if the right frames came up. I was greeted by the sales associate but that was about it - she basically talked to her friend the entire time I was there. I found a pair of frames that I really liked by were a little bit out of my price range and so asked her if there was anything similar but less expensive. She basically just browsed the store, just as I was doing, which showed me how little she knew of the inventory. She also never asked what I was looking for nor tried to get a sense of my taste or style - which I think is important if you are trying to sell someone a pair of glasses. The lack of customer service really turned me off from Labrabbit, which is a shame since the selection is really great and unique.
Comment from Coyote D. of Labrabbit Optics 3/26/2012
Hey Paddy! Firstly, I apologize for your less-than-stellar… More » -
Review from LadieLoops '.
Oak Forest, IL
After numerous suggestions from my friend Nikia J. I finally purchased my first pair of (Drift) frames from the super awesome Labrabbit Optics. I knew first hand that this shop was all that Nikia talked about and more when several people came in and were known on first name basis. Coyote is a golden optician and it shows that he is very passionate at what he does. If I could vote 100 stars for this shop I would in a heart beat.
I look forward to visiting again soon for my next pair(s). -
Review from Maureen S.
Chicago, IL
I'm blessed with poor vision. At least, for the first time, I've felt that this was true. I've had to get a new pair of glasses almost every single year since I was about ten. I've never had a more pleasant experience choosing frames or being fitted for them.
The selection in here can't be matched anywhere, the location is convenient and close to public transit, and the turn around time was quicker than estimated. The whole process was very simple, logical, and well organized, and the people who work here are very sweet.
Accepted payments are cash, credit, debit, and to my knowledge, paypal. There is a lot of hard work that goes into this place, and it shows. Hell yeah! -
Review from B G.
Chicago, IL
Excellent service, ultra-cool business, hard-to-find frames, incredible handmade lenses and at an unbeatable price.
You can't beat Coyote and Labrabbit! -
Review from Amber M.
Chicago, IL
Back in December, I found out that I needed glasses. After searching through a number of well reviewed eyeware stores in Chicago and finding nothing as special and unique as I dreamed about my first pair of glasses being, I found Labrabbit.
There I spent hours playing in their vintage deadstock collection before
finally deciding on a pair of 1960s
My husband, after having spent a lot of time bonding with the store himself, decided to upgrade to a fantastic, yet tasteful, pair of Yellows Plus glasses.
Coyote (the proprietor) was very technical and explained to us about the importance of lining up the pupil for cutting the lenses and other issues of glasses alignment, and provided timely service.
All in all, a well curated store with excellent service. -
Review from Kent S.
Chicago, IL
It took way too long for the initial visit to Labrabbit. Then it finally happened. I haven't worn glasses for about 8 years and I wanted to try and make up for lost time the moment that I entered.
Coyote is the greatest optician in history.
When I put that set of Andy Wolf frames on my face, I fell in love. Then I asked Coyote if there is even the slightest chance that I will possibly encounter a second set of these walking around Chicago. He assured me that that is far less than likely. Then I checked the frame designer's site. Turns out that I likely own the only pair of these glasses with a 1500 mile radius.
The selection here makes me want to have a spectacle museum of my own.
Coincidentally, we ran into each other at The Whistler, which is when I learned that my lenses were ready to go. They were ready one whole day earlier than expected. I'll be back in here again and again and again. -
Review from maria k.
Chicago, IL
I am so glad this place exists! Hands down THE most excellent, stylish place to pick up a pair of vintage or super hip frames. The guy who owns the shop is extremely friendly and knowledgeable without a HINT of pretentiousness (very much appreciated). I was able to try on as many frames as I wanted and he didn't push anything but also gave honest advice as to how they would look. He also was cool when I told him I would be getting the lenses elsewhere (by the way, mistake on my part, I spent more than I would have through the place recommended) and I was greeted on a first name basis when I went to pick up the frames I had finally chosen.
Come here, stand in awe of the collection, spend hours?days?weeks? deciding on the perfect pair, and forever receive compliments on your one of a kind new specs. -
Review from Lauren W.
Chicago, IL
Loved the store and the frames! Very different and true vintage. But what was even better was the woman behind the desk. I forget her name, but she was so nice. She helped me try on a lot of frames and did not pressure me to buy anything. Super friendly and even asked me where I was from, etc. Totally coming back to see what's new!
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Review from Charlotte S.
Chicago, IL
This place is totally hot & Coyote, the owner, is amazingly helpful & friendly! They accept flexible spending accounts for frames & sunglasses! Hott!
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Review from Gracie G.
Chicago, IL
I had a really great experience at Labrabbit. The place is like a dream come true for those of us who prefer face decor over contacts. The variety of frames was huge and many of them very reasonably priced.
I went in on a Monday with my prescription in hand and had my brand new glasses (which I LOVE) by Friday. Its not bunk ass Lens Crafters that'll churn your glasses out within the hour, but will charge you an insane amount of money and convince you that you need all kinds of lens treatments that you really don't.
Coyote was really great, he made sure my frames fit really well and that the lenses were going to be centered correctly. If I need to have my glasses readjusted or anything, I know that I can go in and get it done.
I'll definetely be going back for another pair and telling all my four-eyed friends about it as well. -
Review from Jen B.
Chicago, IL
So so so thrilled with my experience. I brought in a pair of killer vintage Paloma Picasso frames that I wanted to put prescription sunglasses lenses in. The original lenses had this really cool gradient that I wasn't sure could be replicated. But Coyote was more than happy to oblige. And it wasn't an outrageous price either.
He knows his eyewear, for sure. He has an incredible selection of unique and vintage frames. I wish I needed a second pair of glasses right now, because I would much rather support his business (and rock a sweet pair of glasses) than go to a big box glasses store. I am definitely coming back. -
Review from Emily R.
Hands-down the coolest eyeglass shop in Chicago.
Where else can you find a shop run by a guy named Coyote that features an ever-changing art installation in the front window and offers the freshest, funky, unique, arty, vintage and obscure eyewear?
I scored my second pair of frames from Labrabbit this weekend and as usual Coyote was a pleasure to do business with.
Thanks for keeping Chicago stylish, Coyote. -
Review from Andi W.
Chicago, IL
After whining about how boring my current frames were, my friends suggested I check out Labrabbit Optics. I was blown away by the variety of frames (and each one unique and interesting in it's own way). But that's just the tip of the iceburg. After picking my frame, I assumed it would go something like, "here is my prescription, see you in a week!" But Coyote (the owner) is meticulous and very professional. He made sure he had all the measurements and information perfect before sending me off. The glasses were done in a matter of days (and look amazing).
I can't recommend this place enough. The space, the personality, the selection, the quality, and the price is TOTALLY reasonable (cheaper than my lame frames that were covered by insurance)! I'm buying another pair of frames next week and am looking in to prescription sunglasses. Best!!! -
Review from Alex K.
Chicago, IL
I will add my $0.02 to the already-heaping amounts of praise...
I came in looking for a pair of (non-prescription) sunglasses. After locating a pair of Randolph Engineering aviators I dug, I explained to Coyote that I needed them prior to a trip I was taking that weekend. Coyote was able to hook me up with a pair of lenses with a 48 hour turnaround time. He also threw in an anti-glare coating for free. A similar pair of shades would have cost me about $50 more if I would have ordered them through the manufacturer's website.
Coyote also spent about 10 minutes adjusting the frames so that they fit my face perfectly, which I really appreciated.
A much more enjoyable experience than visiting the Sunglasses Hut. -
Review from Mike J.
Oak Park, IL
I agree with all the 5-star reviews I've read here...Coyote is hands down the best optician I have ever consulted with (he knows everything about how frames and lenses work together), and Labrabbit was the most fun I've ever had buying a pair of specs. Great selection of vintage and designer frames, a cool little store on Ashland, and the man himself, who knows that great customer service is a combination of knowing your product and interpersonal skills. I wish I needed another pair of glasses, it was so much fun shopping there! I have several old frames, and so am making plans to bring them into Labrabbit, to get new lenses in them, or to see if they're vintage enough for Coyote to put into his stock. Great job, Labrabbit!
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Review from Scott K.
Chicago, IL
Excellent start up frames vendor run by a very knowledgeable and friendly young entrepreneur. I came in simply to peruse and the proprietor took me on a whirl wind tour of plastic, flexon and wire. Also, he patched up my busted ass wayfarer shades with tiny tiny screws.
Great selection of vintage frames from every imaginable era and style with prices that are really rather reasonable in an industry that seems to pride itself on insane prices. I'd highly recommend a visit; if only to expose yourself to the unique styles cultivated and curated here.
IF you lack vision insurance, or it is incomplete, but still want some stylish frames, this might be the best bet in Chicago. -
Review from Sujith K.
Chicago, IL
I went to Labrabbit Optics after visiting every other spectacles monger in the area. This was to be my first pair of glasses ever, and so I was laboring the decision of which frames to buy - I received my prescription back in December.
The first thing I noticed was how different the frames are. Labrabbit has, by far, the most unique selection of Frames in the city. Apparently, Coyote (proprietor) has a TARDIS that enables him to travel back in time between 20 and 30 years to procure frames that simply do not exist anymore. His frames vary tremendously, and most of them are one of a kind (at least in our time-line). There really is something for everyone at this store, from Ira Glass to Dieter from Sprockets.
Beyond the selection, the prices are INCREDIBLE. Most of the frames do not have prices, which is usually cause for concern for the visually impaired of modest means. However, Labrabbit's prices are far lower than the average high-street chain-store prices. Seriously, my frames and lenses were cheaper than what comparable frames alone would have been at the aforementioned stores.
Finally, the service was fantastic. Labrabbit is currently a small operation, giving Coyote the opportunity to really get to know his customers. He knew my name after my second visit. And I'm foreign! After making my much labored decision, my frames and lenses were ready in 3 days. And should I need any further assistance with my frames, I know I can bring them back to Coyote for mending without any hassle. Awesome.
I am 100% satisfied with my frames, I'd even publicly endorse Labrabbit on network TV, if given the opportunity. -
Review from d. k.
Chicago, IL
Labrabbit Optics is great to work with. Coyote (the owner) is patient and explains all the options. Great relaxed atmosphere in the shop.
I had prescription sunglass lenses put into a pair of vintage frames and they came out great.
Excellent craftsmanship with a high level of quality.
On top of all that, the prices are reasonable.
If you have optical needs, check them out -
Review from Ross B.
Chicago, IL
Great service, amazing frames.
Nothing like it in the city. You could troll thrift and antique shops for a year, or come to Labrabbit and find 20 pairs you love in as many seconds. The selection ranges from outrageous and daring to restrained and elegant. Every pair is bursting with character.
Warning. If you get glasses here, just prepare yourself for the torrents of unsolicited compliments and nonstop flirting that will inevitably follow. -
Review from Cara H.
Chicago, IL
Ran into LabRabbit Optics at a Vintage Bazaar in Wicker Park in December and lingered around for a little too long. He had dozens of interesting frames that were unusual, inspired, vintage, and just plain sexy. I tried on a pair of Shuron's and looked into the mirror and got incredibly excited. The frames were these beautiful tortoise shell with gold rims and pretty gold detailing- it was like something out of the Mad Men Secretary Pool. I absolutely had to have the frames (and he had them in like three different colors!). Coyote (the man in charge of LabRabbit Optics) told me that all I needed was my IL Prescription. I literally ran over to Lens Crafters Boutique, got a copy of my prescription, ran back to Coyote, and all I had to do was pick the lenses and a day I could do a fitting.
Not too much longer after that day, I was sitting in his swank vintage office on Division street (where he had even more awesome frames laid out), got a quick fitting and a brand new pair of glasses. It was like no hassle, he is incredibly easy going and supportive (getting new glasses is a big deal!), incredibly reasonably priced, worked around my busy schedule, and is an all around great business.
I've been getting TONS of compliments about my frames and now it is my mission to get all spectacled young men and women in Chicago over to Lab Rabbit Optics so they can feel good about their choices (and not ripped off by the big name stores). I'll definitely be coming here again, and with his prices I can afford to.
Also, if you already have a pair of awesome frames and need to update the lenses, he can do that for you. Or if you just want frames and no prescription lenses- he'll help you out.
oH! He even does sunglasses too with any of the frames, prescription or non-prescription! Yay summer! -
Review from Phillie P.
Chicago, IL
Great service! Just go! You want some awsome frames.. go and check out the selection. You may not have to go anywhere else. Need lenses placed in an existing frame? GO GO GO!
Impeccable service! -
Review from Mathew C.
Chicago, IL
Have you ever been watching a film from the 70's or 80's, and thought to yourself, "man if I could find a pair of those specs these days I would be too cool for school!" Think/wonder no more. A gentleman named Coyote has been hoarding them and keeping them in pristine condition just for you! I, on the other hand was just looking for someone to fix my shades, which Coyote knocked out in about an hour! He not only found a screw to fit my shades, he actually cut it down to size! Awesome!!!
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Review from Jack A.
Chicago, IL
I was lost (mostly due to piss poor vision and lack of proper eye wear) and now am slightly less lost!
I went to Labrabbit after not only reading some illuminating Yelp reviews, but also having ran into people in my 'hood rocking some seriously awesome eye wear. Their pusher-man? A coyote who worked inside a lab rabbit. I thought they were on drugs (they probably were, all my friends are on drugs.) Later, I found out that it wasn't an actual rabbit but Labrabbit Optics. I was hesistant at first: an overview of their website led me to believe the frames were all very niche, uberhip, and unflattering for my surly mug. But, being disenfranchised with so many eyeglass boutiques in the neighborhood and not wanting to settle on the fast food chains of eye attire a'la Pearle Vision or Lens Crafters, I hustled on in.
I entered to find not a coyote hawking eyewear (damn!), but a gentle (genteel?) waif of a man named Coyote, who stood a good foot taller than myself and exuded calm in an environment full of busy, bright frames, throbbing sub-variations of techno/house/electro/etc., Ellen Ripley posters, and some neon twine sculpture that seemed to be taking over the storefront. Despite those potentially dizzying elements, the general attitude of the small boutique was clean and collected.
After about an hour of pilfering his massive selection of new and vintage frames (which, for those who are worried about the website possibly being too limited, just come into the store, he has TONS) I settled on something chic, with thick black frames and silver metallic Deco accents. Not a bad first pair. And through all of my neurotic searching, Coyote was attentive and patient.
Less than a week later, I returned to the shop. Mounds of groceries in eco-friendly grocery bags, staggering in like some bedlam-ridden bag lady. Still, in the face of such dishevelment, Coyote remained a congenial proprietor. After about 20 minutes of him painstakingly adjusting my new glasses to sit just right on my face, we were done. With a swipe of my card, I was out less than 250 dollars for fantastic eye wear. Eye wear that I have no doubt would've been double/triple at other establishments.
While all of this is well and good, the real reason Coyote and his Labrabbit get 5 stars? The man carried my fucking groceries to the cab! Affordable, hip eye wear AND the art of customer service is not a lost one here. -
Review from Lisa L.
Chicago, IL
Awesome - plain and simple. Where else can you get an attractive pair of glasses with hand-shaped lenses for $80? Turnover time from picking out the frames, getting fitted, putting in the order, and getting the new pair was only about a week and a half.
Coyote is a great guy and very easy to work with; if you need a new pair of specs, him him up and go get a pair. -
Review from Batya H.
Chicago, IL
Wow, this place had an underground feel as I walked up to Coyote's home business on the 3rd floor.. After reading the reviews here, I decided to try Labrabbit for a pair of sunglasses and I was not disappointed. I thought I would save money from my usual place, but alas, I discovered a pair of BAMBOO frames! No matter what other frames I looked at, nothing compared to the bamboo ones. So I splurged and I'm not disappointed. Coyote customized the lenses and got the perfect color. When I picked up my frames, he showed me an excellent pair of gray frames that I fell in love with. I'll be back.
By the way, no credit cards, only checks and paypal. I had narrowed it down to 2 frames and Coyote let me take them home to show my husband. We came back that evening and ordered the bamboo ones. -
Review from Sasha H.
Chicago, IL
Wow there is an amazing selection of vintage eyeglasses at Labrabbit! I love that the space is super warm and friendly which is totally different from more mainstream optical shops. There is a gallery feel about it that makes you feel like you are about to purchase a piece of art. New and retro frames ready for prescription sit along side radical sunglasses from antique to 80s. Coyote is a certified optician and can grind and tint your lenses in virtually any shape or color you can think of, watch out you may have to choose more than one pair! I have my eye on some Paloma Picasso cateye frames--hope they don't sell before I get my prescription filled! Also they have an online shop is packed with everything from vintage Diors, dead stock Cazal shades, or new line of sustainable wood frames. Tell all your myopic friends to go check it out!
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Review from Jasmine J.
Los Angeles, CA
This place is awesome. The selection is great, the service is great, the store is a piece of art. I picked up some sunglasses today and already have my eye on my next pair. Go to Labrabbit!
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Review from jade t.
Los Angeles, CA
I heard about Labrabbit this summer, when I happened to be in Chicago. I promptly went over, tried on nearly every pair of frames in sight and settled (with his help) on a superior pair of 80s new old stock. It took no time at all to do measurements, arrange shipping, and pay.
All said, my glasses got to Columbus in about a week and mass compliments - from friends, strangers, cuties, and weirdos - ensued.
He has a really amazing selection of frames, and the only problem I had was picking just one pair. Awesome customer experience; I'm jonesing for more already! -
Review from Mike D.
Chicago, IL
Amazing selection of vintage deadstock frames and new tre chic styles in a wonderfully cool boutique with no attitude. The thing that puts Labrabbit uber alles is Coyote's service and attention to detail. He will go out of his way to make sure you have a great experience and get the right frame. Come support a local business owner.
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Review from brandy s.
Chicago, IL
i went to labrabbit because coyote stocks hard-to-find frames, but i left with an excellent pair of glasses and a great customer experience. coyote was friendly and professional, knowledgeable, super accommodating, and inspiring. his shop is gorgeous, his business model is unique, and he's the kind of small business i hope will endure!
i've had my frames from labrabbit for about a week and i am even more enamored of them (and labrabbit) than i was when i picked them out.
thanks coyote! -
Review from Kristin L.
Chicago, IL
In short, Labrabbit Optics changed my life. One pair down, two on the way - including an extraordinary pair of new old stock frames that will soon be prescription sunglasses for all the seeing and looking good I want to do with what little sun this city will throw our way.
They are patient while you peruse the impressive stock of frames in every color, shape, and size, meticulous at measuring, and insightful and intuitive in helping you find the perfect pair for your face/needs/style. Bring in your prescription or even your tired, boring glasses and they can get the scrip from the lenses. Real talk: the most fun and friendly frame finding experience in town. -
Review from Denise K.
Chicago, IL
I have never purchased anything from this place, but they throw one hell of a party!
Hear me out....
I live in the neighborhood. A few weeks ago, I walked by this place with some friends and there was a party going on. So...we did what anyone would have done. We stopped in and had a few (exotic) drinks. We had a blast! Way to go, Labrabbit. I have to say... everytime I walk by this place now, I always have to peek inside to see if there's a party going on.
Maybe it was all just a dream. -
Review from heather w.
Chicago, IL
while i was weeping into my pillow about selling out to The Establishment and Working for The Man, this guy was giving The Man the finger and starting his own glasses shop out of his apartment.
in this day of mass produced bullshit and crappy customer service, coyote makes me feel like a fancy rich person with my own artisan optician. the prices are reasonable, the work is timely, the selection is incredible. he didnt laugh me out of the store when i asked for frames that were "unique but not too quirky, make me look young, pretty, stylish, and also are acceptable to older Establishment white guy types." he also gave it to me straight and told me when frames didnt work, rather than just trying to sell me stuff.
this guy is clearly a master of his craft, and will tell you all about the coating and the index of your lenses, as well as different glasses makers and stuff. overall, probably the most awesome consumer experience in chicago.
oh yeah, and my new specs immediately garnered compliments from The Man, while simultaneously making me feel young and stylish. -
Review from evan S.
Chicago, IL
Everything was wonderful. Needed some prescription sunglasses got the frames on ebay, took them to Coyote with my prescription in hand. told me 10 days got them in 6. affordable fast and coyote is nice as can be. give this man your business!
