You can always purchase a plain brown or black eyeglass frame at any optician or optometrist office. But if you really want to stand out from the crowd, be sure to check out the great selection of eyewear at Modern Optics. Founded by St. Pete native optician Chuck Eubanks in 2003, this independent optical boutique serves clients from all over the world with beautiful frames and sunglasses, expert prescription lens choices, frame adjustments and eyeglass repairs.
“Many of our eyeglass frames are custom-made in the USA, so if you see a pair you like but want it in a different color, we can give you 400 choices,” Eubanks says proudly. “Or perhaps you fall in love with a particular style but it lands on your cheeks. We will design and manufacture it so everything fits you perfectly.” Today about 80% of Modern Optics customers purchase a custom-made pair of eyeglasses. There is also a wide selection of sunglasses, including those from Dillon Optics that offer lenses in black, silver, blue, and gold and frame styles in metal, nylon, and wood. “People drive from all over to buy Dillon sunglasses here, as the nearest other place to get them is in Miami,” Eubanks reports.
Still not sure of the style you want for your eyeglasses? For $10, you can purchase a sample to see if you like the color, shape, and size.
Kids want to look fashionable, too, and there is a full line of eyewear made just for them. And with many years of experience, Eubanks makes sure every pair fits just right.
Easily Convert Your Prescription Glasses to Sunglasses
With the snap of a magnet, you can convert your favorite glasses to sunglasses with custom-made clips by Chemistrie. There are 20 lens covers to choose from in a variety of colors in mirror, gradient and solid to give you 100% UV protection with perfect clarity. It’s a convenient, comfortable alternative to expensive prescription sunglasses.
Insurance Now Accepted
Modern Optics accepts many vision insurance plans and will run the numbers for you to determine what your share will be. (See a complete list of plans on their website.) Several Medicare Advantage plans will reimburse you for new eyeglasses, and Eubanks will set up a payment plan for you if you don’t have insurance coverage.
Two companies were so impressed with the beautiful mid-century modern vibe of the shop that they requested to use the space to film national commercials.
“There are very few independent eyewear boutiques left as many optometrist and optician businesses are being bought up by large chains,” Eubanks says. “We search the world for unique eyeglasses that can’t be found anywhere else in the area. People come from all over to take advantage of our one-of-a-kind offerings.”
As one happy customer reports, “If you are looking for frames that are unique, stylish and fun, this is the place for you! Happened to be walking by this store while on vacation and ended up buying three pairs of glasses. Owner is fabulous to work with – very patient, professional and helpful. Definitely worth the drive if you are in the area. Highly recommend!”
Visit Modern Optics at 2433 Central Ave. in St. Pete or online at www. modernopticsfla.com, or call (727) 360-2511.
