This was my first byt from RareCollections. My first impression is that- this service level is what "pro-collector" needs. Super-good service and helpful staff. Personal service and they are doing mor... See more
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Books arrived... I have revised my review in light of the heartfelt response of the seller.... i still feel the boxes used are too thin and flimsy for international use for such important and collecta... See more
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Rare Collections holds stellar stock. It's probably the first book dealer I think of if I have some cash left at the end of the month to spoil myself with a quality book. Immaculately clean books and... See more
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I've ordered several times from this bookseller. At first, I started small and ordered only one book that I needed. After I found them trustworthy, my next order was for 14 more, and then recently a... See more
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Company details
Written by the company
Rare Collections is dedicated to the discovery and careful curation of rare books and collectibles, driven by a deep passion for fine works and a commitment to handling them with integrity. Specializing in rare and collectible items sourced primarily from the USA and Europe, we offer an extensive selection of fine press books, modern first editions, speculative fiction (sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and gothic literature), natural science, prints, and related ephemera. Our catalog includes unique titles, some of which are available exclusively in-store or through direct inquiry. Operating online since May 2021, we’re thrilled to now welcome book lovers to our brick-and-mortar shop in Constantia Old Village, Cape Town, at Shop 5, as of October 2024. Our store is a haven for collectors, featuring fine, rare, and investment-grade books alongside premium collectibles, backed by nearly 20 years of combined experience in the rare book industry. In partnership with The Wine Room, also located within our Constantia space, we offer clients a truly unique experience. The Wine Room showcases a curated selection of wine appliances and accessories—everything from wine fridges and cigar humidors to handblown crystal glassware, decanters, and wine preservation systems. Together, Rare Collections and The Wine Room can assist in designing your ideal library or collectible display, incorporating books, artwork, and memorabilia into your custom-crafted wine cellar or display area. Rare Collections is a proud member in good standing with the Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association, recognized for its high standards of experience, expertise, and integrity in the rare book trade. Additionally, our leadership holds key positions within the Southern African Bookdealers’ Association, reinforcing our commitment to ethical standards in the regional book trade. As members of the Independent Online Booksellers Association, we further pledge to uphold rigorous professional standards, backed by a strong Code of Ethics. Our commitment to authenticity, ethical practices, and exceptional quality sets Rare Collections apart, making us a trusted destination for discerning collectors worldwide. Visit us in Constantia or online (www.rarecollections.co.za), and let us help you find or create a bespoke collection worthy of your passion.
Contact info
Constantia Old Village Shop 4, 7806, Cape Town, South Africa
- +27 21 023 2441
- info@rarecollections.co.za
- rarecollections.co.za
4.8
Excellent
46 reviews
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Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you so much Anna for the lovely review. We appreciate you taking the time to leave one.
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you so much for the review and support Hanno.
All right book received.
March 10, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Glad you received your order in good stead. Thank you for the feedback!
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you so much for the kind review Kenneth!
Prompt reply to my order establishing…
Prompt reply to my order establishing the timeline for delivery. Most important when an error was made and a wrong book was sent, a prompt acceptance of their error and the correct book sent.
January 20, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your kind words! Mistakes, while rare, are something we take very seriously and we’re so glad we were able to resolve the issue quickly for you. Your understanding and patience mean a great deal to us and we hope to assist you again in the future.
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for recognizing our efforts to provide excellent customer service. We appreciate your feedback and look forward to assisting you again.
Recommended Seller
Items arrived as expected from overseas to the United States. Books were packed very well and there was no issue given the distance they traveled. Thank you for taking such care. I would recommend this seller.
January 20, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you so much for your review. We take great care in packing and shipping to ensure that every item arrives safely. We appreciate your recommendation.
Excellent service as well as products…
Excellent service as well as products of incredible quality. These are volumes that simply cannot be found anywhere else.
January 20, 2025
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your feedback! We take pride in sourcing unique and rare books of the highest quality and we’re so pleased to know you’re happy with your purchases. It’s a pleasure to serve fellow collectors and we look forward to helping you discover more treasures in the future.
Beautiful book
Beautiful book, very well described and shipped very quickly - thank you very much!
December 12, 2024
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your kind words! We’re so glad you’re happy with the book and our service.
Reply from Rare Collections
We appreciate your feedback and are thrilled you’re pleased with your item and delivery experience.
The book arrived well packaged and in…
The book arrived well packaged and in better condition than expected. Thank you.
December 9, 2024
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for sharing! We’re delighted to hear the book exceeded your expectations.
Beautiful book, great customer service
Beautiful book, expertly packed. Arrived in perfect condition. Thank you.
Isabelle Brightman
December 8, 2024
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you. We’re so pleased the book arrived safely and in perfect condition.
Superior customer service
I was so impressed with Brenda and the staff at rare collections right from the beginning. I had questions about the book that were easily answered by them. They packaged the book extremely well since it had to travel halfway around the globe to get to my address in South Carolina. The book arrived at my doorstep ahead of time since I was gonna pay for standard shipping. They upgraded me FedEx three day mail. I would highly recommend using them for the purchase of collectible books, and I plan on using them again in the future.
December 9, 2024
Reply from Rare Collections
We’re so grateful for your thoughtful review! It was a pleasure assisting you, and we’re delighted the book arrived safely and ahead of time. We look forward to helping you with more collectible books in the future.
Excellent experience every-time I order from them
I have ordered multiple times from Rare Collections and the experience has been top notch each time. Brenda and Christo are both extremely helpful and respond quickly to any queries I have. The packaging is great with Brenda personally ensuring that the books are packaged well and arrive safely here in India. Rare Collections has a very cost effective express international shipping due to which I have been able to make purchases that I would otherwise have not made due to the high international shipping costs elsewhere. The shipping also includes tracking due to which I have never had any issues in receiving my orders. They also send the provenance information of books wherever available which make for an interesting read. I wish them all the best and hope to continue purchasing books from them for many more years.
December 5, 2024
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your continued support Manish! Ensuring your books are packaged with care and arrive safely is always a top priority, and we’re so glad our cost-effective international shipping has made your collecting journey more accessible. Providing provenance information is something we love doing, so it’s wonderful to hear that you enjoy those details too.
It’s always a pleasure assisting you, and we look forward to helping you grow your collection for many more years to come! Thank you again for your thoughtful words and encouragement.
A rare excellence from rare collections
I connected with Christo and the rare collection team mid 2024 around antiquarian books i inherited. Honestly and without hesitation they have been the best customer service focused team I've encountered. Going the extra mile in many cases and delivering on expectations. A wealth of book knowledge and top shelf characters.
July 26, 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you so much for your kind words and glowing review! It was an absolute pleasure connecting with you and assisting with your collection. We love sharing our passion for rare books with like-minded enthusiasts.
Always a pleasure buying from Rare…
Always a pleasure buying from Rare Collections. Wonderful, ever changing books. Knowledgable, friendly owners. Highly recommended!
December 6, 2024
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you so much for your kind words and continued support! We're happy to hear that you've enjoyed your experiences with Rare Collections and our ever-evolving selection of books. Your recommendation is much appreciated.
I've ordered several times - AMAZING SELLER!
I've ordered several times from this bookseller. At first, I started small and ordered only one book that I needed. After I found them trustworthy, my next order was for 14 more, and then recently another for 18 titles I desired. Each time I was handled professionally, promptly, and all items were delivered as described, carefully packaged, and quickly delivered (despite the distance).
December 3, 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you so much for your kind words and continued support! We're happy to hear that you've been pleased with your experiences and appreciate your trust in us. It’s always our goal to provide professional service, careful packaging, and prompt delivery, no matter the order size or distance. Your feedback truly means a lot to us, and we look forward to helping you add more treasures to your collection in the future!
Amazing bookstore
I have ordered books several times from Rare Collections. I found them when searching for books online through Abes, Biblio, and Albris. I was hesitant to buy a book from South Africa or Australia. However Rare Collections is amazing. Communication is excellent. After I order they send an email with tracking information. My last book took four days to go from South Africa to my house!
November 15, 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for your wonderful feedback. We’re happy to hear about your positive experiences with Rare Collections and are so glad we could exceed your expectations. International purchases can sometimes feel uncertain, so we’re committed to ensuring seamless communication and reliable service for our clients worldwide.
We look forward to helping you discover more treasures for your collection in the future. Thank you for trusting us with your orders!
Bibliophile's best friend
If you are a bibliophile, then Christo (and his Rare Collections) is more than a trusted bookseller, he is a close friend, because his passion, "extreme attention to service detail" and range of truly beautiful offerings are without peer in South Africa, and comparable to the very best in the world. My world and library have been considerably enriched in the past few years by Christo. My only gripe is that my bank balance isn't as big as it needs to be!
November 13, 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you for such a heartfelt review! It means the world to us to hear that Rare Collections has brought joy to your library and enriched your world. Christo's passion for rare books and dedication to exceptional service truly drive everything we do, and it's wonderful to know it resonates with clients like you.
We’re honoured to be part of your collecting journey and look forward to continuing to help you discover treasures for your library - bank balance permitting! Thank you for your continued support and friendship; it’s always a privilege to work with a fellow bibliophile.
A PLEASURE TO DEAL WITH
I appreciate the good service your business gives, and I've been very happy with the books I've purchased so far. You have packed my orders well, and delivery to the UK has been fast and efficient. I don't think any book collector could expect more.
October 1, 2024
Unprompted review
Reply from Rare Collections
Thank you so much for your kind feedback. We appreciate your support.
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