Sunglasses Production Timelines Guide

Whether you own a sunglasses or optical frame brand, manage purchasing, or are just starting with a new eyewear venture, understanding custom sunglasses production timelines can be a bit opaque. Production times can vary significantly between manufacturers. Based on our extensive industry experience, we've put together a general overview of typical custom sunglasses production cycles to help you plan.

The custom sunglasses production timeline is significantly influenced by the materials used for the frames, among other factors. Generally, frame manufacturing and lens production often occur in separate facilities. This means the final assembly plant's efficiency is directly tied to the upstream raw material suppliers' lead times. A seemingly small pair of sunglasses can involve a multitude of raw materials and intricate processing techniques, all of which heavily impact the overall eyewear manufacturing lead time and your custom sunglasses order fulfillment.

Production Timelines Are Different By Materials

The material you choose for your eyewear frame will significantly impact the production time. Let's explore the timelines for some common materials:

Injection Plastics (PC, TR, CP)

These materials require molds for production. The mold-making process typically takes 30-40 days, with more complex molds, like those for two-color injection, potentially taking up to two months. Once the mold is ready, the actual production time is generally 30-35 days, but it could be longer if the factory is busy. In total, expect to wait at least 80-90 days from design finalization to receiving your finished product.  

Metals

Metal frames may or may not require molds. While metal molds can be created relatively quickly (about 20 days), the production time depends on the complexity of the design. Typically, production takes 30-40 days, including time for pre-production samples, and plan for a development cycle of around two months.

Handmade Acetate

Acetate frames are crafted using CNC machines and do not require molds for the front frame, saving on costs. However, the temples may require a hard mold for pin insertion, and additional molds might be necessary for metal accents. The most time-consuming part of acetate frame production is the material processing itself. Steps like shrinking, cutting, carving, tumbling, and polishing require precision and patience. If this process is rushed, the finished product may warp or deform. Allow at least 2-3 months for acetate frame production, and plan for a total development time of 4-5 months.  

A Common Misunderstanding

Many clients often ask which sunglasses frame material is "higher-end," with some immediately pointing to acetate as the premium choice. But is an acetate frame inherently superior to a PC (polycarbonate) frame?

Not necessarily.

Let's reframe the question

When you're buying a pair of sunglasses, would you prefer a pair that warps and deforms, or one that holds its shape? Do you want a durable, long-lasting pair that resists deformation, or something heavy that still bends out of shape? Consumers vote with their wallets. Some prioritize affordable, functional sunglasses; others seek the emotional value of a high-end product; and many are looking for the best cost-performance ratio.

So, who are your target customers for custom sunglasses manufacturing?

We believe it's a mistake to blindly assume that a more expensive material automatically leads to a "higher-end" pair of sunglasses. Quality control and attention to detail in the manufacturing process are just as crucial. For brand growth, it's about selecting what's most suitable for your market. This means finding the right fit when you're looking to customize your sunglasses.

Key Takeaways for Your Sunglasses Custom Journey

Navigating the world of custom eyewear production can seem daunting, but armed with the right knowledge, you can ensure a smoother process. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

• Plan Ahead: This is crucial. Custom eyewear manufacturing isn't an overnight process. To meet your desired delivery dates, always start the production process well in advance. Rushing can lead to costly mistakes or compromises on quality.

  
  

• Understand Your Materials: As we've discussed, not all materials are created equal when it comes to production. Different frame materials and lens types have unique production requirements and timelines. Factor this into your planning.

  
  

• Embrace Flexibility: Even with the best planning, unforeseen issues can pop up. It's wise to be prepared for potential delays and always have a backup plan in place. A little flexibility can go a long way in managing expectations.

  
  

• Choose Your Partner Wisely: The manufacturer you choose plays a significant role in your success. Partnering with an experienced and reputable eyewear manufacturer can truly streamline the entire process, minimize unexpected issues, and ultimately deliver a product that aligns with your brand's vision and quality standards.

  
  

By keeping these points in mind, you'll be well on your way to a successful custom sunglasses production timeline and a stellar product. For any more inquiries, feel free to contact JaneyCheers. We share & empower, and we cheer together.