Q&A

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q. Do you buy cameras and lenses?

  Yes, we do. 2nd BASE offers in-store buybacks. You'll need to bring the item you're selling, a valid form of identification, and your personal seal (inkan).

  For mail-in or on-site buyback services, please contact Sanpou Camera's Meguro Main Store.

  Buyback free dial: 0120-02-2273

  When visiting the shop in the Kanda-Neribeicho area near Akihabara Station, many customers arrive with questions about how the buyback process works. The staff begins by examining the item on the spot, checking its condition, functionality, and completeness before presenting a quote. Whether you are selling a mirrorless camera body, a vintage film camera, or a set of old lenses, the evaluation is straightforward and transparent. Customers are welcome to ask about the reasoning behind any valuation, and there is no obligation to sell once a price has been offered, making the whole experience low-pressure and easy to walk away from if the numbers do not feel right.

  A common point of curiosity for first-time visitors is the relationship between 2nd BASE and Sanpou Camera. The two share a connection within the broader camera trade, yet the shop operates with its own collection, lineup, and approach to customer service. While Sanpou Camera has its own established history and storefront, 2nd BASE functions as a distinct location with a curated selection of film cameras, mirrorless bodies, and lenses. Staff members are happy to clarify the differences and can point customers toward the right store depending on what they are hoping to find, whether that is a specific vintage piece or a modern digital setup.

  Many customers also ask about the practical details of selling and buying, such as what to bring and how the shop handles items with missing accessories or signs of wear. The general guidance is to bring whatever you have, including chargers, straps, and original boxes if available, though their absence does not necessarily stop an evaluation. The shop is closed every Wednesday as well as during the year-end and New Year holidays, so it is worth checking the schedule before making a trip. For those browsing the collection, the staff can also share information about the history of particular cameras and lenses, adding a layer of context that makes the visit more than just a simple transaction.

• Q. What's the difference between 2nd BASE and Sanpou Camera? Are they the same company?

  2nd BASE and Sanpou Camera (based in Meguro) are the same company. 2nd BASE focuses on curating cameras and lenses with strong enthusiast appeal — vintage, manual focus, and specialty gear. Sanpou Camera, by contrast, carries a broad range of equipment for everyone from beginners to professionals.

• Q. Are prices the same at 2nd BASE and Sanpou Camera?

  Selling prices are set independently by each store. Buyback prices are generally aligned across stores for items that aren't part of a specific store's promotional focus.

• Q. Can I order items between 2nd BASE and Sanpou Camera locations?

  Yes. If you see an item on Sanpou Camera's website that interests you, we can arrange to have it transferred and held at 2nd BASE for you — and vice versa. Just give us a call.

  Please allow 1–2 days for inter-store transfers. Warranty repairs can also be handled at either location.