Will never go there again or recommend. (Wisc Ave) I had heard good things about Apex and had just moved to the neighborhood. Had a new Rx to fill. Brought my own frames to get lenses replaced. Had no problem with the prices and ordered the lenses. After spending ~$1200 they (manager?) seemed insulted that I asked for a receipt. He said "we've been here for 40 years!" Seriously? So what? After I insisted he begrudgingly printed one for me. When I picked them up they had not applied the edge-polish I had ordered and paid for. The salesperson took them in back and applied a slight buff, not a polish. I asked her to apply a polish and she went back and did it correctly. The thing is my lenses had an AR coating. Applying a polish to an AR lens can damage the coating - it's supposed to be done before the AR is applied - maybe that was the lab's fault. Nevertheless, I spoke with the salesperson about a different pair of lenses I was interested in, one for strictly reading/computer distance. I told her my working distances and knew just what it was I interested in. She proceeded to insist that that was not what I wanted, finally raising her voice and saying "fine, whatever you want!" Lots of glowing reviews on this site and that's fine for them - not for me. And, as background, I was a licensed Optician for 25 years before I stopped practicing to go to law school. I knew what I was talking about. The Rx/lenses were fine, but the attitude was a total turn-off. I'll never go back even though they're right around the corner from me and I'll never recommend them. read more

Apex is great - it may be a little expensive but it's your eyesight. The selection is great but it's the service that's unique. They take such care in fitting you, and you can come back again and again and they stand by their work. I have bent my glasses pretty badly more than once and they have always adjusted them perfectly. I've tried other places but came back here a while ago because they are better than anyone else. read more

SNAP! The dreaded feeling of your glasses in 2-pieces on a Sat. morning. Luckily I purchased my specs from Apex-Optical and was helped with great speed and care by Ms. Jacqui Webb. First, she helped me pick a new style and ordered a new frame as my 5-yr old titanium frames were unavailable, and since I had replaced the lenses 9-mths earlier, the replacement lenses were free and the new frame was discounted. Then she reshaped my lenses to fit into a rental-pair to wear as I wait for the new specs - (she chose a style I w/n have picked - but now like). ABOVE AND BEYOND! Thank you Jacqui! See you soon. / Curt read more

This is a fine "tried and true" optical company. I have been with them for over twenty years and they have never failed me in any way. Recently they went over and beyond to follow up with the manufacturers about a warranty. Do not go anywhere else. read more

I have been with Apex for years. Recently, there has been a big staff change at the Bethesda location, so I ventured off to another optical company. At the new optical company, my measurements were taken by a Zeiss measuring apparatus, not manually as done at Optical. My vision requires very thick glasses, so this new company recommended Zeiss lenses - which are the lightest and thinnest of all then lenses available in today's market. My new glasses are indeed lighter and thinner than the same Rx from Optical; in fact, the lenses from Optical look like Coke bottles in comparison. It's disappointing that Optical never recommended Zeiss when I asked for the thinnest lenses possible. Maybe Optical's profit margin is better for them with the other brands. read more

I took my scratched Ray Ban sunglasses and new lenses I had purchased online to Apex to have the lenses switched out (was afraid I'd break the frames). I had never been there before, so they didn't know me. They switched out my lenses and said "no charge - have a great day". Not often do you get that nice neighborhood service in the city! I will definitely use Apex from now on! Thank again! read more

Not only are the people at Apex Optical excellent at making glasses, but they are the nicest people. I just had a wonderful experience with them. I asked them to do a repair on my elderly mother's glasses. She did not even buy them at Apex but that did not matter. They really did a fantastic job of fixing them. I should not have been surprised. Their customer service has always been first rate. And they also give good advice frame choice too! read more

The trick of a good optician is not only the stock they have but the personable nature of their service. For 5hatt you need caring professionals, people that make it a place where "They know your name". This is what I have found, specifically from Blanca, always attentive but most of all, good at what she does. read more

I have been a long time customer of Apex on Westlake and am very pleased to recommend Sally and Jorge who have ensured over the years that I have the best possible frames and lens. The know when to recommend my doctor do a recheck and what frames work best for my face, my prescription and the intended use. They are great problem solvers and will work with you until you are not just satisfied but happy with your new glasses or new lens. We are very fortunate to have them in our community. read more

I've been buying my glasses from Apex for going on thirty years, first at the downtown location and more recently at the Tenley Circle location. They've always provided excellent service and worked with me until everything is tweaked to my liking. I've particularly appreciated Marco's and Blanca's solicitude and skill. As long as I need glasses -- and I don't expect my eyesight to improve with age -- I'll be getting them from Apex. read more

During my last eye exam, I asked my ophthalmologist which optician he favors, and he recommended that I go to Apex Optical in Tenleytown. It's the optician he uses for his own eyeglass needs, also mentioning that Apex's lenses were used as the benchmark for accuracy and quality during a recent comparison done by one of the local television stations. Now that I've gotten both prescription readers and sunglasses from them, I totally understand why. I was fortunate enough to work with Ricky, one of Apex's certified opticians. He listened very carefully to what I was looking for in new frames, then picked out a number of frames that would fit the style that I wanted and would work well with the shape of my face, settling in on frames that are feather-light and look great, garnering a good number of compliments. He also helped me pick out a very nice pair of sunglasses that have been perfect on sunny summer days. More importantly, Ricky paid particular attention to my prescription, testing out the magnification to make sure that the strength of the glasses would be correct prior to having the lenses made. It turned out that my new prescription was a bit too strong, so Ricky got in touch with my ophthalmologist, adjusted the prescription, and the magnification of my new lenses ended up being picture-perfect. He also took special care to make sure that the glasses fit properly, adjusting the temples so that they rested properly on my ears. I opted for the Crizal lenses, which are absolutely amazing - they're crystal-clear and much better than anything I've ever used before. Yes, they cost a bit more, but the quality is well worth it. Ricky is quite personable and his attention to detail is exemplary, making the entire process of buying new eyeglasses a pleasure from start to finish. I can easily say that the level of service offered by Apex is heads-and-shoulders above the rest and wish I had discovered them earlier - given everything your eyes help you do, they certainly deserve the best! read more

I visited Apex on Saturday to learn about the different lens options for a pair of frames I had. Joel(sp?) took the time to explain the differences between the different AR coatings from different brands (e.g. Zeiss Duravision Platinum, Essilor Avance) and did a fantastic job answering all of my questions. read more

Apex Optical Company - Google Street View (2016) - Eyewear & Opticians Near Me - Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Apex Optical Company, 2001 L Street, NW; Washington, DC The staff at Apex has and continues to meet my high expectations for products and service for approximately 15 years. I bought my Rudy Project bicycling glasses as well as several other glasses from them. The are better skilled at fitting frames and lens than other opticians I have used. I recommend them based on my experiences. read more

I have enjoyed nothing but excellent service from the highly competent and friendly personnel here. I returned today for the first time since COVID. Since my prescription was the same as the last time they cleaned my glasses and sent me off without trying to sell me anything else! How professional and gracious. Highest marks. read more

The Clear Choice for Eyewear. Apex Optical offers an impressive selection of eyewear coupled with outstanding and very knowlegeable staff. Marco and Mark both know their stuff and are incredibly patient and very professional. They were huge helps in choosing eyewear that was right for me. While its not cheap (they do not take insurance), you get your money's worth and then some. If I (or anyone I know) needs glasses this is the place where I would send them without hesitation. My new glasses are both smaller and lighter than my old ones PLUS I have clipon shades that look stylish and fit the frames well. The choice for quality eyecare is clear: It's Apex Optical. read more

I came here on the advice of a Washingtonian article. The glasses I've had for the last 4 years were from Lenscrafters, and there's nothing wrong with them. I just needed new ones for a new prescription. The service at Apex was average, and they had a very boring selection of frames. The few they had for $129 were ugly and cheaply made, and the rest of their inventory was filled with snooty big-name designer glasses with giant logos for showing off. Ugh, no thanks. The price for a decent pair, with lenses, came out to $450 for me, and they couldn't be made until the next day. I guess I fail to see what's in any way special about this place, and in the mean time, I'm going to Burton. read more

Apex has served my parents, my in-laws, and my wife. There is never a long wait. They are professional, competent, and patient. If ever, something isn't as wanted; they have the lensmaker redo it for free. Next, will be my one daughter to go here. read more

When I rather stupidly smeared super glue all over my reading glasses I figured I was up for a new pair, but as a longtime Apex customer I also figured there was a slim chance they could save the day. They've done it before. I brought in the glasses and Ricardo, who waited on me, took them away for quite some time. When he returned the glasses were fixed -- I had smeared the glue and made things worse, using alcohol to try to remove the glue, but Apex had a proper solvent: it took time, but the result was very welcome. I might add that Ricardo could not have been more pleasant and helpful on a personal level -- no sense of recrimination, just happy to be of service. It's usually like that at Apex, but this problem was a severe one and it came out much better than I anticipated. read more

After a mishap involving a computer and my glasses last night I was left with a broken off arm and a lot of bending. I've never broken my glasses before, so I came in here for advice on what to do. They ended up fixing them for me for free. I'm really happy that they were able to help me out so quickly and had the knowledge to do what I definitely wouldn't have been able to do with those eyeglass repair kits. Thank you!!!! read more

I walked into Apex this afternoon with an emergency situation with my glasses. one of the nose pads had just fallen off a brand new pair of expensive Prada glasses I had purchase in Fort Lauderdale Florida. I was traveling and visiting with friends who suggested that Apex was the best in the area. They were busy and all four associates were busy. a gentleman got up, excused himself from his customer and asked if he could help. He saw what happened, asked his current client if he could help me as it would just take a minute. She graciously said it was no problem. I ended up in a discussion with her and another woman and helped critique the glasses they were looking at. They both purchased and one decided to buy 2 pair :-). They fixed my glasses in minutes and refused any payment. I was impressed with the kindness and the great selection of frames this store had. read more

I just had the best experience at Apex Optical! I am visiting here DC from out of state and broke my eyeglasses. I called and they said they could take a look to see if they could fix them. Ask for Marco, he said. Marco was wonderful! He could only temporarily fix them, which was all I needed until I get home and get them fixed. Not only would Marco NOT let me pay him, he validated my parking!! I don't live here but my daughter and her family do! I'll tell them to go to Apex for all their eyeglass needs! read more

My review is not about the degree of service or quality of professionalism of this establishment. My comments are with respect to the negative experience of human decency and charity experienced from the owner or manager while sitting near his Apex Optical. I got a coffee from the coffee shop just next door. All outdoor tables were full at the coffee shop. I took an empty chair from one of the tables and moved it into the shade of Alex Optician and only in the shade/NOT blocking the door or entrance to Alex Optical. I was chased out by the owner or manager, being told that his business was just that and not a park. What an unfortunate and uncharitable man. Maybe I will bring him the book Scrooge for Christmas this year. At least I learned of one business that I will never patronize. read more

My experience at Apex Optical Company on Wisconsin Avenue was absolutely wonderful and I highly recommend them! I needed a new pair of prescription glasses and searched a long time before I decided to go to Apex Optical and I made the right decision. Ms. Erica was the optician that helped me, and she was fantastic. I informed her that I wanted a pair of rimless frames with progressive lenses, and she helped me to pick out a pair of Lindberg rimless frames that were exactly what I was looking for. She recommended the Varilux Physio Progressive Trivex Lenses with anti-reflective coating and a high luster edge polish. She explained that the Trivex lenses are stronger and lightweight which makes them more suitable for rimless frames and high prescriptions. I also decided that I wanted a different color frame after I placed the order and I called them a few days later and they made the change for me, no problem. (Thank You Mr. Anthony and Mr. Marco). I am very happy with the finished product. My prescription glasses are beautiful and so lightweight that I can barely feel them on my face. Also, the prescription itself is flawless. I see perfectly. I love my new prescription glasses so much that I also ordered a pair of prescription sunglasses as well. Thanks So Much Apex Optical Company! read more

Apex is pricey, they don't take insurance and don't provide on-site eye exams. So why go? Lifetime great customer service! I think their selection of frames is very good, but what I really like is the time they take with each customer to make sure your eyewear is appropriate for your face and properly fitted. I like being able to drop in without an appointment and have my frames tightened or get a consultation. Optician Marco Zapata is fabulous; he diagnosed a problem I was having with my Maui Jim prescription sunglasses that was making them unwearable. Two other staffers at Apex hadn't gotten to the source of the problem and I was about to scrap the glasses. Marco started first by PUTTING THEM ON to experience what I was seeing--so simple! In just a few minutes he had made a corrective adjustment to the frames and now my sunglasses are perfect! read more

After years of suffering with poorly fitting glasses, I finally went to Apex. I liked the glasses so much I turned around and got a second pair. Staff will work with you carefully on fit and cost. The glasses are a bit pricey, but they are worth it. I wish I could give this place 6 stars! read more

Love Apex Optical! I have bought every pair of glasses I have ever owned from here and would never go elsewhere. They are pricey but they know their lenses- so if you have a complex prescription this is a great place to go. I get complements on my frames (kate spade-green plastic-fun but not to crazy) all the time. They are expensive but the quality is great. They have a wide range of style- some that range from the blingy- but to other classic styles. read more

I started going here about 2 years ago, although my opthomologist has been recommending them for years. I couldn't be happier - I am hard to fit and every time I go back for an adjustment or my glasses get bent they are friendly and accomodating. While I bought my lenses from Bethesda both L Street and Wisconsin Avenue have helped me with adjustments. Their hours are very good for my schedule. Its the kind of place that opens their doors a few minutes earlier than schedule. Yes, they are a little expensive, but you get what you pay for. For my eyes, I think its a good investment. read more

Whether you are looking for a custom designed pair (temples, nose bridge and pads, lens size and cut, etc.) or something off the shelf, Apex will find you the perfect frame. Expert and patient staff who know how to help you find the perfect frame for your face and style. read more

I ordered my second pair of glasses from Apec this week. Ricardo helped me. As I was looking, he repaired an old favorite pair of frames that I bought somewhere else, free of charge. I had picked out several pair to try on, but I bought one that he had found for me. He was friendly, and professional, and knowledgeable. I used to go to a place more expensive where OMG everything looked Fabulous 9n me. I prefer Ricardo's approach much better. read more

Apex seems smallish but it filled with a selection of eyeglasses frames that rivals the chain stores and their significantly larger spaces. The styles vary widely, so it seems like there'd pretty much be something for everyone. HOWEVER, the prices vary widely too, but for the most part are definitely on the expensive side. (To find exactly what I wanted to have on my face instead of spending a few years looking in the mirror at "the closest style I could find to what I like" made the extra expense worth it to me.) The staff is very patient and helpful. read more

I stopped by here on a whim after my son broke my glasses. I was greeted promptly as I walked in. They were able to quickly fix my frames without any trouble and everyone who worked there was super friendly. I would definitely recommend Apex! read more

Apex has been the eyewear provider for myself, my spouse, and my kids for the past decade. We have had consistently outstanding service, and they really stand behind their products. The wait is never very long, and they are efficient with customer service--yet they take the time to listen to one's needs and to help find the right frames. The staff is extremely knowledgeable, sensible, courteous, and helpful. Unlike some other optical shops, the Apex staff have all the right skills to deal with children of all ages. One of my kids has been getting glasses at Apex since age 3; there was a time when we would come in almost weekly to get the frames unbent or repaired (which they did cheerfully and free of charge). An optician last week patiently listened to that kid (now 10) explain in detail his self-consciousness in glasses and his challenges on the sports field related to sun--then guided him toward super cool frames and just the right rec specs with transition lenses to fit his needs. My teenager also appreciates the way he is treated at Apex. Most optical shops have the same brands and range of frames, but it is the consistently superior customer service that sets Apex apart. read more

I got my first pair of glasses at Apex Optical when I was 11, and have gone there ever since. Their high-end selection is not cheap, but I am always happy with my service and what I get there. read more

This place is absolutely amazing. I went in with broken frames that up until today, no one was able to fix. I saw previous Yelp reviews and decided I would give this place a try. I got there about 15 minutes before closing and they still saw me. The gentleman who fixed my frames was very patient and tried a number of remedies until he found one that would fix them (I had stepped on my glasses so they were pretty broken). He stayed 30 minutes after closing...the epitome of customer service. I am forever grateful. I will definitely go back when it is time for me to get new glasses. read more

My former optometrist had me fill my prescription at Apex Optical and I found their pricing to be moderate to pricey. However, when a spring goes bad on your frame they will ix the problem at no charge. A busy shop, so come early and enjoy world class service and a fine selection of eye-ware. If you can't find it here, you don't need it. read more

I went to Apex Optical to purchase glasses for my baby after a terrible experience with another optical shop. What a difference!! When I called, I spoke with Marco, who told me that their Bethesda shop has a better selection of children's frames. However, when I told him the Tenleytown store is much more convenient for me as it is metro accessible and the Bethesda store is not, Marco went to the Bethesda store to bring a selection of frames to the Tenleytown store for me to look at. I found a pair that fit my baby perfectly and Marco took multiple measurements to make sure the lenses would meet her vision needs. He then expedited the order as we will be moving overseas soon. When I returned to pick up the frames, I worked with Blanca. She was so wonderful with my baby and took the time to explain to me how to clean the glasses. I had to nurse my baby while there and noticed that the glasses were slipping a bit. Blanca readjusted the frames so they barely slip at all now. She told me that she is the newest employee there and has been there for 9 years, so that says something about the shop being a good place to work and the quality of the shop shows in their customer service. I will definitely go back again when it's time for my daughter to get new glasses! read more

Apex is great. I have bought frames and lenses and also had lenses replaced in previously purchased frames. Service and expertise of staff are at the highest level. I particularly like working with Blanca and Marco. I'm sure others are also very competent. read more

Undoubtedly, the most expensive optical store I've ever visited. They wanted to sell me a Lindberg rimless frame (it only has connections to the ear and a nose piece) and a progressive lens for $1056. Go elsewhere! read more

I have been going to Apex Optical for the past 35 years, and have traveled from out of state to get new glasses from Apex. Now that I am in the D.C. area,my whole family gets our glasses from Apex. Their service is unparalled and that's what I am looking for in an optical shop. Between Mike and Marco, I couldn't find better technicians and that is why I will continue to go to Apex, partly for the selection of new glasses, but primarily because of the continuous service. After all how often do you need new glasses versus service on your existing glasses? read more

As the saying goes, 'you get what you pay for' and that is true of Apex. They're VERY expensive, but completely worth it, especially if you have a difficult prescription and/or wear your glasses regularly (I fall into both categories). They don't scrimp on service, quality, or expertise. They make certain that you glasses fit PRECISELY - cutting, shaving, adjusting and readjusting both lenses and frames to ensure they are perfect. Simply put, they are glasses experts. My entire family has been here as we all have "difficult" prescriptions and, thus far, have been extremely pleased. Moreover, they guarantee their work and will replace any defective, incorrectly made, or prescription mistake within a certain time frame. Example: I had glasses made based on a prescription my eye doctor gave me, but the lens felt "off" in one eye. It turned out that the my astigmatism was slightly off and when I went back to Apex with the corrected prescription, they replaced the lens free of charge even though there was no fault on their end. That's what I call good service. read more