R G Lewis

There have been camera shops in the Holborn area for over 150 years. And just under a century ago the multi-​faceted entrepreneur Norman Lewis took over a going concern in Holborn itself.
He carried over the trading title of his father Richard’s chemist shop in North London – R.G. Lewis.
In earlier years he had operated a photographic developing and processing business on the first floor above Richard’s shop in Enfield and photography was in his blood.
Norman was one of the first to take an interest in the new Leica world of «miniature photography» in the late 1920s and he propelled RG Lewis into becoming the country’s leading Leica specialist.
Norman Lewis was a successful businessman, who was constantly trekking the globe, calling in to Holborn every few months to replenish the coffers.
In his wonderful autobiography, Semi-​invisible Man, he outlines his early years in Enfield, his involvement with his father’s chemists shop and his rise in the world of Leica cameras.
Incredibly, Norman Lewis was also a spy for the British security service, M: I-​6 in the years leading up to the Second World War and for some time afterwards.
His profession as travel writer and successful businessman meant that he could wander the world, Leica in hand, without raising the slightest suspicion.
A contemporary and friend of Ian Fleming, Norman Lewis probably found some facet of himself in the character of James Bond. Mr Bond 007 — would most likely have owned a Leica camera.
Len Lyons, the current face and business architect of RG Lewis has had a seriously long career in the photographic business, rising to become a managing director of the one-​time premier chain, Dollands (subsequently taken over by Dixons).
One day he was sent to negotiate the purchase of RG Lewis Ltd from Norman Lewis himself.
Later, in 1982 when Dollands was sold, Mr Lyons acquired RG Lewis as his new baby.
Over the past few years I have built up a good professional relationship with Mr Lyons who is unfailingly knowledgeable, courteous and very helpful, both in person and over the telephone.
His little Leica shop in Southampton Row, was a regular stop on my travels around central London.
I would often call in for a chat with Len Lyons, Barry Langridge, Simon Biggs, Robin Rata or Walter Porter and I will most certainly miss this immensely.
On the bright side, from a customer point of view, there is just over a month to visit Len’s shop and see what bargains there are to be had.
I know that there is a vast amount of historic photographic gear stored there and a visit is highly recommended.
Leica enthusiasts throughout the UK and aboard will be upset to hear of Len’s decision to close down.
It is truly unfortunate that the company could not have continued in some form but, as Mr Lyons himself explains, «the modern photographic market is a cutthroat business, even for a Leica dealer».
The demise of RG Lewis is a loss not only for the Leica community but for photographic retailing in general. The store at 29 Southampton Row, Holborn, is one of the last of its kind.
Small family businesses such as RG Lewis are closing down every year. Yet there is a vast gulf between the impersonal approach of the big high street and internet retailers and the old-​world charm and personal service afforded by the likes of RG Lewis.
RG Lewis — you will be missed terribly!