Frame measurements explained

To determine the correct glasses size in the online secondhand market, it is recommended to use a well-fitting pair of glasses as a reference and measure its total width across the front, from one side to the other.

1. Frame width

On our marketplace, sellers can provide this measurement and may additionally specify the total width across the back of the glasses, measured from temple tip to temple tip. This distinction is important because a pair of glasses may fit correctly at the front but have widened in the temple area over time. This can occur due to frequent wear or improper handling, for example when pulling the glasses up onto the head. In such cases, the glasses fit well at the front but are too wide at the back and may slip off the face. By comparing the front and back widths, the actual fit can be assessed more accurately and incorrect purchases can be avoided.

2. Bridge width

The bridge width refers to the distance between the two lenses, i.e. the part of the frame that rests on the wearer’s nose. It is measured at the narrowest point between the lenses. In standard glasses size notation, the bridge width is usually the middle value of a three-part measurement, for example: 52–18–140, where 18 mm represents the bridge width.

3. Lens width

The lens width describes the horizontal width of the lens, measured at its widest point from the inner right edge of the frame to the inner left edge. In the example above, this measurement is 52 mm.

4. Lens height

The lens height describes the vertical height of the lens at its highest point, measured from the bottom to the top inner edge of the frame. This filter allows users to specifically search for narrow or oversized glasses in the shop.

5. Temple length

The temple length describes the length of the temples, i.e. the parts of the glasses that run over the ears. In the example given, the temple length is 140 mm.