Mr Cad, London's great shop for film photographers

[vdonovan]

Hi friends, I'm sure it is old news to members of this forum, but I was in London this week and stumbled into Mr. Cad (near Victoria Station), the best film-only camera shop I've seen in years. It's one of those shops that's a joy just to explore.

Mr. Cad has a very deep inventory in all film-related photography, especially large format and darkroom, but they seem to have a million of everything. If there is something you are looking for they are worth contacting. The owner, Alex Falk, is an old-school photo guy, very knowledgable, very friendly, and I received excellent service. They are experienced with international orders and shipping.

Best of all, with the current exchange rate, his prices are reasonable. Six months ago this would not have been the case. While I would not wish ill on our friends across the pond, I hope the British Pound stays in the tank for a while longer.

Anway, if you are in London, you MUST go, if only to have a nice afternoon in a real old-fashioned camera shop. Of course they are well stocked with film of all sizes and darkroom supplies if you need some on the road.

http://www.mrcad.co.uk/

On Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/Mr-Cad-Photographic-234994033182462/

 

[Andrew O'Neill]

My idea of a candy store!!

 

[cliveh]

When I saw the name it reminded me of this:-

 

[fitou143]

Yes I agree highly recommended, you will need a bit of time though to have a good look around very knowledgeable, well worth a visit.

 

[hdeyong]

Great, I'll be near London for a month soon, and will definitely visit this place.

 

[BMbikerider]

For those who want to have a look and possibly buy something - be aware - very aware. They have a lot of stock, but they also charge exxesively high prices for it. There are reported questions about returning items to them when they prove faulty. It is a long time since I visited their shop (at his older place) and to be honest some of the items he sells is, shall we say of questionable quality.

Around the corner is another company Grays of Westminster. If you are a Nikon officionado that is the holy grail. They only sell Nikon - nothing else. They are not the cheapest, but where in London is there anything cheap? But the quality of things they sell are beyond reproach.

 

[Theo Sulphate]

What types of people are you seeing in there? Old guys? Hipsters? "Artsy" types?

If it looks like a ham radio swapmeet, we're doomed.

 

[vdonovan]

When I was there I saw a range of customers, from 20s upward. I (a sprightly 57) was the oldest in the room.

I found their prices to be competitive. The items I purchased (an 8x10 rear standard and bellows for a Sinar P view camera) were in excellent condition. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. I haven't tried to return anything, so I can't speak to their return policy.

 

[Bovrilarg]

For those who want to have a look and possibly buy something - be aware - very aware. They have a lot of stock, but they also charge exxesively high prices for it. There are reported questions about returning items to them when they prove faulty. It is a long time since I visited their shop (at his older place) and to be honest some of the items he sells is, shall we say of questionable quality.

Around the corner is another company Grays of Westminster. If you are a Nikon officionado that is the holy grail. They only sell Nikon - nothing else. They are not the cheapest, but where in London is there anything cheap? But the quality of things they sell are beyond reproach.

I bought a Hasselblad film back from them. It did not work so I took it back two months after I bought it. Plenty of reason for them to tell me to take a hike. They offered a replacement or store credit, no fuss or any issues. Great service. Yes a bit expensive but they are in downtown London and must pay rent. eBay has some great buys but here you can handle the equipment, ask questions and get help.