The Paris Flea Markets

Come to discover Serpette market grace to a virtual visit

t the beginning of the 1970s, bric-a-brac trader Alain Serpette bought up this former garage, which happened to have belonged to the first Citroen dealer in France, specialising in the famous front-wheel drive. The garage waved goodbye to the ghosts of the Citroen DS, and gradually transformed itself into an address reputed throughout the high society of Paris. Serpette was the son of a Flea market stallholder who had made his living from selling antique weaponry. He set up a series of concrete stalls, but 'forgot', much to the dismay of the local authorities, to apply for the necessary planning permission, which led to a series of titanic legal battles, not least because the Saint-Ouen town council took a dim view of this new extension to the Flea Market. No measures were taken, however, to prohibit the building work, and a total of 120 stalls were created. In 1983, the La Hénin bank, which already owned the market next to Serpette (Paul Bert), bought up this jewel in the crown of the Flea Market.

Serpette Market 110. rue des Rosiers
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The 130 traders who work in Serpette Market are the ones to come to for a number of specialities, not only for fashionable goods, but also for art nouveau, up until the 1940s. Serpette is a market of the highest quality, a reputation that the merchants are extremely keen to conserve.

It is one of the trendiest places in Paris, and its car park and covered walkways make it a favourite on rainy days. It also benefits from the advantages of its big brother, Paul Bert, where the aisles are bathed in sunlight when the sky is blue.

This covered market is currently flourishing, particularly because of the strong export trade. The goods on offer are generally beautiful, sometimes at a price that is regarded by some as excessive. It has to be said, however, that the quality and conscientiousness of its many professionals can only be guaranteed by the best possible merchandise, and it is in this way that Serpette remains head and shoulders above the rest.

The connoisseurs who come to Serpette will find themselves in good company. It is a living dream for antiques lovers. Its dealers, who are generally young, are only too happy to discuss their latest finds with you, whether you are a potential buyer or not. Be careful, though, not to hesitate too long. It can be fatal. While you are mulling things over, another buyer, quicker and more determined than you, may swoop in to snatch up that "bargain" you had your eye on.

Because the goods on offer are renewed so frequently, Serpette is a market that is always at the forefront of things. The enthusiasm of the dealers, always on the look out to find that unique object at the bottom of the pile, draws professionals from around the world. Why not join them !