Tamarkin Camera - Chicago, Illinois

Joe Pollock

I’ve bought a couple things from Tamarkin, I called both times. One was a leather case for a Leica 1c, and the other was an M mount 50mm Summicron. I feel like the service I received was wonderful, and I was treated with the same respect buying a cheaper leather case and an expensive lens. I look forward to maintaining the relationship! And the shipping is super fast!

G B

I highly recommend Tamarkin Camera, no doubt. The owner Dan Tamarkin comes from a well established family business lineage of selling Leica products starting with his father Stan over 50 years ago. I used to visit his father's store in Connecticut many moons ago. Dan has taken the torch from his father and brought this business very far and then some now in Chicago! Some things you will discover doing business with Dan is the quality of his pre-owned products. They are graded well and Dan stands behind what he sells you. Inventory - Dan's store has a robust selection of Leica products both pre-owned and new. You have a good chance of Dan having in stock that dream lens or camera body when you call. If he doesn't have it, he'll work with you trying to find one out there in Leicaland. You can't buy from Dan online because he's committed to one-on-one service in person or over the phone....Real service! Lastly, is Dan himself personally.....he's fun to talk to, knowledgeable, and even has a sensor of humor... Go check out his podcast "The Barnack Hour" and watch his Tamarkin videos, especially the ones he made on Facebook here during the lockdowns of the pandemic...epically hilarious... Ok stop reading these reviews and give Dan a call!! Do it! ....and no I wasn't paid to write this review... 🙂

Zach B

I visited Chicago a few months ago, and walked into his shop. I got to look at and handle many different cameras and lenses. I probably spent a good 45 minutes there. I told him upfront that I didn't have money to buy a camera then, and he was still very helpful. Six months later I made a purchase over the phone, a M4, and had a great experience. I'm in Chicago again, and plan on heading over again tomorrow.

UPDATE: I just want to say how helpful the people here are. As many of you may know, old cameras are like old cars, they need maintenance and repairs. My M4 got a sticky rangefinder cam, I emailed Ernie and he helped me coordinate sending in the camera and solving the problem. I got the camera back and it was functioning like a brand new camera, despite the fact that it is from the late 1960s.

Joe Pearce

I have always had great experiences here. Lovely and helpful staff, obviously great product and wonderful exhibitions.

Justin Kamstra

Recently sold a Leica Lens 90mm F2.8 I purchased last year. Staff were kind & helpful. Process was efficient. Dan, the owner, took time out of his day walking to a Chase Bank branch to make sure the check was processed smoothly after Chase Bank was causing issues with the check. Will be back soon.

Charles Davis Smith - Photographer

I purchased a Camera from Tamarkin Camera just 4 months ago and it needed to be sent back to Leica for a warranty item. I was told by Leica the repair was likely to take several weeks due to a part shortage. Dan stepped in and I had a camera back to me within 10 days, now that is service!

If you have not done business with Dan or any of the staff at Tamarkin Camera, I highly recommend them, they are the best! They have a customer for life!
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Jordan Anderson

I stopped in and Dan was an amazing help and a pleasure to talk to. He answered several questions I had and gave me some great tips. He set me up with a local made leather strap that is both beautiful and impeccably made for my Leica. They have a new loyal customer. Support this local treasure!!

Iain Kirkpatrick

I was in town on business and was thrilled to visit this fantastic store filled with new and vintage cameras, interesting books, and high-quality accessories. The owner is clearly passionate about photography and Leica cameras. I was happy to make a purchase and support a local business where customer service and satisfaction is clearly a priority. Will definitely visit again the next time I am in Chicago.