Selected Single Vision Prescriptions
One-hour glasses are for selected single vision prescriptions only.
ONE-HOUR GLASSES
One-Hour Complete Glasses
Selected single vision glasses can be completed in around one hour at City Optics, where eligible and subject to prescription, lens type, frame choice, lens stock and store capacity.
Available for selected single vision glasses only. Multifocals, complex prescriptions, non-stock lenses and specialty lens options may require more time.
ELIGIBILITY
What Can Be Made in Around One Hour?
In-Stock Lenses
Timing depends on whether a suitable lens is available in store.
Suitable Frame Choice
Some frame types, lens designs or coatings may require extra time.
Store Capacity Applies
Completion time depends on current store workload, staff availability and lab capacity.
Our team will confirm expected timing before proceeding.
Stock lens guide
Stock Lens Availability by Store
Lens availability changes and suitability depends on your prescription, frame choice, lens type and store workload. Our team will confirm what is available before proceeding.
Wetherill Park & Kotara
Stock single vision lenses are commonly stocked from -4.00 to +4.00 sphere with up to -2.00 cyl.
Penrith
Stock lenses are commonly stocked from -4.00 to +4.00 sphere up to -4.00 cyl, plus -4.25 to -5.00 and +4.25 to +5.00 sphere up to -2.00 cyl.
Nepean & Lab Sourcing
Nepean does not hold stock lenses in store. Higher powers and high-index lenses may be sourced from our lab within 1-2 days where available.
HOW IT WORKS
How One-Hour Glasses Work
Bring Your Prescription or Book an Eye Test
Bring a current prescription, or book an eye test with our optometry team if you need one.
Choose a Suitable Frame
Our team can help you choose a frame that suits your prescription, fit and timing needs.
We Cut and Fit the Lenses In Store
Where eligible, our optical team prepares the lenses and fits them into your chosen frame.
Quality Check Before Collection
Your glasses are checked before collection to ensure they are ready to wear.
TIMING
What Can Affect Turnaround Time?
Some glasses can be completed quickly, while others require more specialised lens ordering or external lab work. Our team will confirm the expected timeframe before you proceed.
- Multifocal lenses
- High prescriptions
- Non-stock lenses
- Transitions or specialty lens options
- Polarised, tinted or custom sunglass lenses
- Rimless or complex frame types
- Coatings or lens upgrades requiring external lab work
- Busy store periods
IN-STORE LAB SUPPORT
Glasses Made With Real Optical Support
Selected City Optics stores have in-store optical equipment and trained optical teams to help prepare eligible single vision glasses faster than standard lab turnaround times.
In-store lens edging support
Real optical team assistance
Frame fitting and adjustments
Quality checks before collection
EYE TESTS
Need an Eye Test First?
If you do not have a current prescription, book an eye test with City Optics before choosing your glasses. Eligible Medicare card holders can access standard Medicare-covered eye tests bulk-billed where eligible.
FRAME & CLAIMING SUPPORT
Choose Frames and Claim In Store Where Eligible
1,000+ Frames on Display
Browse a large in-store frame range at selected City Optics stores, with options for different budgets, prescriptions, face shapes and lifestyles.
Explore Optical Frames
Health Fund Claiming In Store
Bring your health fund card in store and our team can process eligible prescription optical claims on the spot using HICAPS for supported health funds. Rebates depend on your fund, cover, limits and claiming history.
Learn About Health Fund ClaimingFAQ
One-Hour Glasses FAQs
Can all glasses be made in one hour?
No. One-hour glasses are available for selected single vision glasses only, where eligible and subject to prescription, lens type, frame choice, lens stock and store capacity.
Do multifocal glasses qualify for one-hour service?
Multifocal glasses usually require more specialised measurements, lens ordering or lab processing and are generally not completed in one hour.
Do I need a prescription?
Yes. You need a current prescription. You can bring an outside prescription or book an eye test with City Optics.
Can I bring my own frame?
You can bring your own frame, but suitability depends on the frame's condition, material and design. Some own-frame jobs may require more time.
Can I use my health fund?
Eligible prescription optical purchases may be claimable in store using HICAPS for supported health funds.
Can I get prescription sunglasses in one hour?
Prescription sunglasses, polarised lenses, tints and specialty lens options may require more time depending on the lenses and frame selected.
What affects the turnaround time?
Prescription complexity, lens stock, lens type, coatings, frame type and store workload can all affect timing.
Will the team confirm timing before I order?
Yes. Our team will confirm whether your glasses are eligible for faster completion and advise the expected timeframe before proceeding.
Need Glasses Fast?
Book an eye test, visit your nearest store, or speak with our team to see whether your glasses are eligible for faster completion.