Vintage film camera repair in the DC area?
April 19, 2013 9:03 AM

I've got a vintage Pentax K1000 that I would like to get looked and and CLA (Clean, Lube, and Adjust) serviced. I've got a bit of a sentimental attachment to it, so I am looking for personal experiences/recommendations.

I called Penn, and they don't do repairs anymore. Pro Photo is the only other name I've come up with, and they have terrible reviews.

I found a few non-local places, but I'd really rather not deal with shipping if I can at all help it. I'd probably be willing to travel as far as Baltimore or Richmond for really good service.

Any help appreciated. Thanks!
posted by JoanArkham to Sports, Hobbies, & Recreation (5 answers total) 1 user marked this as a favorite
Strauss is the big DC-area photo repair shop. I used them a while ago, but recent online reviews seem negative.
posted by Mr.Know-it-some at 9:13 AM on April 19, 2013


Is Fuller and D'Albert still in business ? Google doesn't list a business web site, but has an address + phone you can try etc. I used them 20 years ago to fix a busted lens (among many other things, like darkroom supplies etc)
posted by k5.user at 10:21 AM on April 19, 2013


I had a K1000 that needed repair and extensive cleaning a couple years ago; took it to Richmond Camera and they did a terrific job. The Midlothian location is closest to me, but they have others, including a store in Fredericksburg, which would be the closest one for you. Good luck!
posted by PlantGoddess at 3:58 AM on April 20, 2013


Thanks, all! Fredericksburg might be a nice little trip, I'll give them a call soon.
posted by JoanArkham at 6:58 AM on April 20, 2013


Just circling back in case anyone checks this in the future. I called Richmond Camera, but they didn't seem to know what I was talking about. They offered to have their DSLR cleaning guy take a look at it, but I'm worried some sort of spring or something will fly out and that will be it.

Current plan is to try and clean it up as much as possible on my own, and maybe check out ProCamera US in Charlottesville.
posted by JoanArkham at 7:48 AM on April 23, 2013


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