Closed until the end of March 2026
The Cape Town Club has been such a success that our landlord wants to turn the shop space into ensuite bedrooms.
With the high demand for accommodation in the Cape Town CBD, one can understand. We’ve been treated very well and given 2 months to vacate which is more than fair.
We’re off to the KZN midlands to trade online. This move will take a few weeks. We hope to be up and running again as soon as possible.
Our Story as an Online Bookshop
James Findlay has been a dealer in antiquarian books, antique maps, posters, engravings, and paintings since 1997. James’s journey began with influences from other dealers such as Robyn Fryde, Michael Prior and Geoff Klass.
As of April 2026 the business has moved completely online after many happy years of operating retail stores in Saxonwold, Rand Club and The Cape Town Club.
Based in Nottingham Road, his work is his vocation. He specializes in unusual ‘pieces on paper’, such as manuscript letters, rare Africana, first editions, banned political posters and pamphlets.
In addition to his extensive collection of antique maps, dating from the mid 16th to the early 20th century, he also stocks watercolours, oils and other signed works of art. His descriptions of each precious item are meticulous. With his extensive hands-on experience of artefacts, James has a rare gift for bringing the nuances of history to life.
James focuses on books, maps and collectables that are worth about R1,000 each or more.
His YouTube channel is dedicated to telling stories about the treasures you will find in his online shop.
Contact James for more information: +27 (0)79 779 4574
REVIEWS
“If only I could sleep there. I needed far more time to look around. James was friendly and accommodating. A very happy person I am.”
— Recato Eberwein
“What a fascinating collection with an incredible passion behind it! Looking forward to coming again!”
— Alexandra Mole
“Free WiFi… but who needs that when you can swop history stories with James?”
— Zoe Merson-Davies
