Why Do Japanese Optical Chains Bundle Frames and Lenses?

01 · JINS

JINS includes eligible 1.60 single-vision lenses

JINS lists its standard 1.60-index aspheric clear single-vision lenses at ¥0 extra. Frame prices vary by model, and the included lenses have a defined prescription range.

The same guide separately lists upgrades, including ¥3,300 for 1.67-index lenses, ¥5,500 for 1.74-index lenses, and progressive lenses from ¥5,500. These are Japan-site prices observed at the time of review.

02 · OWNDAYS

OWNDAYS includes its standard high-index aspheric lens

OWNDAYS presents standard high-index aspheric lenses at ¥0 extra in its official simulator, including suitable standard options for high prescriptions. Its lens guide also lists manufacturers and delivery conditions.

Its Japanese guide notably lists progressive-lens options from ¥0, while certain ultra-high-index and other premium options cost more. Treating the two chains as having identical progressive-lens pricing would be inaccurate.

03 · RETAIL MODEL

Included pricing is not zero production cost

An extra charge of ¥0 does not mean the lens costs nothing to manufacture. It means the standard lens is accounted for within the product’s pricing model. A chain can organize repeated ordering, stocking, and glazing around its defined base specifications.

Standardization should not become a recommendation of identical lenses to everyone. Prescription, astigmatism, frame size, and intended tasks still affect appropriate selection.

04 · CONSUMER CHOICE

The final price depends on exclusions as well as inclusions

Consumers need to compare the lenses actually available for their prescription, upgrade fees, turnaround time, and warranty terms—not just the number on the frame tag. Identical headline prices can produce different transactions.

Country matters as well. The yen amounts and services here describe Japanese official offers, not identical terms in South Korea or every other market.

05 · PRICE EXAMPLE

Two worked examples from Japanese official price guides

The first example is a shopper choosing standard clear single-vision lenses. JINS includes specified 1.60 aspheric single-vision clear lenses with the frame, while OWNDAYS displays a ¥0 supplement for its high-index aspheric standard lenses. Both say 'no extra charge', but this does not establish identical specifications or prescription eligibility.

The second example is progressive lenses. JINS lists a supplement for standard progressives, while OWNDAYS displays basic distance-to-near progressives from ¥0 extra. Both brands require an in-store purchase rather than an online order for progressives in Japan. OWNDAYS states a processing time of about seven working days for regular progressives; intermediate/near-oriented progressive lenses carry a ¥6,000 supplement according to OWNDAYS, while higher-tier designs may also cost extra.

Starting from the same frame price does not therefore guarantee the same total or pickup time. Customers should compare the final configured order using the respective official calculator and current conditions.

06 · RETAIL DESIGN

Simple price labels depend on complex standardization

Limiting standard specifications can reduce the number of choices staff must initially explain and simplify repeatable manufacturing, edging and inventory processes. Bundled pricing therefore changes both the message to customers and the operational system behind it.

Refractive index alone cannot establish lens quality. Actual thickness and weight also depend on frame size, power, optical design and centration. A lens upgrade should be explained through the design difference it addresses, not simply described as a more expensive lens.

Official price pages show an offer to consumers, not the companies' manufacturing cost or optical-store operating margin. Bundling is not evidence that the lens costs nothing to produce.

07 · CUSTOMER DECISION

What to check before comparing two similarly priced pairs

A practical comparison asks not only the frame price but also the material, index and design of the included lenses, and whether the buyer's prescription qualifies. If an upgrade is needed, the final amount and expected turnaround should be explained before the order is finalized.

Exchange, remake and warranty rules should be compared separately from price. With progressive lenses in particular, the intended viewing distances, fitting and post-delivery adjustment can shape the experience as much as the quoted price.

This comparison starts from the terms published on the Japanese sites in October 2026. Offers may change, and these prices should neither be transferred to other countries nor treated as permanent.