my pups were born thursday night/friday morning last week.... and were not due until wednesday just gone. so were 5-6days early. with my previous litters they were born around day 62-63 and eyes opened around day 12-16..... so we are on day 9 now and nothing yet... so do i go from the day they were born and get concerned around day 14.... or count from when they were due? which would have been 4 days ago.....

Always go from the date of birth, regardless of a due date. Alot can happen in 3+ days, let nature do its thing..no need to panick.

My breed always take longer than it suggests in Book of the Bitch and were the same this time even though they were born early. Also hearing is much later than stated so I have learned not to worry.

From the day of the birth, mine didn't open their eyes until day 17/18, much later than advised in the Book of the Bitch.

However I was told that it meant they were contented, often pups open their eyes early if they are not getting enough nutrition.  They will open their eyes when they are ready, I would be concerned if some of the pups had opened their eyes and others had not though.

I'd take it from the date of birth.   And be aware, if your puppies are in quite strong light, their eyes opening may be delayed.   If in subdued light they do tend to start to open at the 'text book' age - around 10 days.   Dogs don't read textbooks however.   So wait.   And whatever you do, not try to force this - if you check by around 10 days on, you may see little slits beginning to open.   What you do need to check on is whether, on opening the eyes are at all cloudy.   Bottom line - if concerned check with your mentor, or vet.

If the eyes are bulging, sticky looking or anything abnormal looking get to a vet ...otherwise let them open in their own time.
Mine are only just beginning to crack open on day 13.