Reviews of Period Fine Bindings (Museum)

Ann Nightingale

I dropped in at Paul's shop to find out what my options were in repairing an old family bible. I left with a new understanding of how fine bookbinding is done. Not only did Paul know a whole lot more about my bible than any family member ever could have, but he was very willing to describe the process that would be required to restore my book and others. His skill and knowledge are amazing. Highly recommend checking out his work!

Trev Friesen

Paul is a Master Binder...as Da Vinci a master painter and Michelangelo a master sculptor. Paul employs techniques relative to the period the binding is from. Every step no short cuts. It is art in it's own right .

Graham Stobbe

Wow. My daughter and I left his shop hours ago and it is still all we can talk or think about. Paul is a man who loves his craft and willingly shares his wisdom and experience with strangers. I think calling him an alchemist is appropriate. He takes the simple things of this world, and turns them into incredible works of art. And his knowledge about the words on the pages is as exquisite as the beautifully crafted covers.

John MERZETTI

Was in the shop and my hand was a good six inches from a pile of finished books. I was pointing out the pile to friends. There was a sign which instructed customers to not touch other customers' finished books (which I was able to read, as I'm a literate adult). I was berated like a child to not touch the books (which I wasn't...as I said, my hand was a good six inches away) and told there was a sign there. I advised him that I wasn't touching the books and I had read the sign. I received a passive-aggressive smile in response. I picked up the antique book I'd hoped to get fixed, and removed it, my wallet, and myself from the store. You're not the only game in town, so check the attitude. Customer service is key.

The Medieverse

I found this store while perusing around Oak Bay and asked the owner if he had any books on medieval warfare. I wasn't expecting the detailed tour he gave me as he pulled rare books worth thousands of dollars off the shelves and leafed through them with me, pointing at illustrations and the history behind the authors. I must say I was very impressed and ended up grabbing a book about Charlemagne and the Twelve Peers of France printed in 1903 for only $35!

Kim Sterling

If you are a book collector, appreciate antiquarian books, or need a book restored, Paul is a master bookbinder and one of the few true craftsman left in his trade. He is exceptionally knowledgeable about all subjects related to fine books, book restoration and is great fun to chat with. His shop, Period Fine Bindings, also boasts an excellent collection of first edition books, on an amazingly broad range of subject matter. I was pleasantly surprised when I mentioned a personal interest and he plucked three or four books right off the shelf about the topic. A great stop, and a great shop! Highly recommended.

DrTuckles

I have been wanting a period correct version of the Nine Doors of the Kingdom of Shadows for many years, and Paul realized that dream in exquisite fashion. The book (the word does it no justice) that he crafted is a work of art. Thank you Paul, I sincerely hope to work with you again some day.

Cecile J

I had the honor of meeting Paul Tronson today (Oct '18). My husband and I walked into Period Fine Bindings to browse and left hours later with feet barely touching the ground. Paul is a modern day Merlin. He's an alchemist, an artist, a historian - a pure treasure. There are people who bind books - and then there's Paul. Paul loves books - and it's obvious. "Paul, thank you for being true to your heart. Thank you for going beyond the acceptable and creating pure perfection. And thank you for spending your time with two random people in passing - we LOVE books, and the time you extended to us will be something we absolutely never forget!"

Ryan G

I have few words that can express my experience with Paul: Laughter, Intrigue, Tears. Within the hour, he showed me God. I bought nothing that day, yet I can't help feel that we both walked away wealthy. Peace and love to you, Paul. I'll see you as soon as I have finished myself with Secrets.

Helena VonDrakenstein

I haven't met many people in my life that knock me off my feet like Paul Tronson of Period fine bindings. A professional and gentleman on all fronts. Willing and able to share his exceptional knowledge and great talent with us all. A real treat to come to his shop. I'll be back soon.

chris

Such a cool shop

Griff B

It is honestly a nice shop. It is truly something else to walk in and be surrounded by all the nice antique books. I am certain he is a master of his craft and does great work. Unfortunately, he made an especially questionable comment that came across as saying Canadians were not worthy of his work? Which is curious considering the location of this shop. Also made it seem like we were not worth his time, which is unfortunate as I have quite an interest in these kinds of books and would've loved to have more information on some present in the shop. (I am looking at putting together a collection.) I would have loved to give a 5 star rating. His work certainly deserves it. Too bad I walked in very interested and walked out with no intention of ever returning. Sorry.

Paul Fisher

Paul is a very experienced and professional book binder. He is passionate about the work he does. I would have no hesitation in recommending him to anybody that asks.

Karen Girdlestone

Having flown from my home in the Channel Islands to visit Paul Tronson .... master bookbinder based in Oak Bay, British Columbia I was not disappointed. I learnt more about antiquarian books and the pure art of restoration from the Maestro of the art of bookbinding during my visit than anything that can be found on the Internet. Paul's passion for his trade is immense and the work he produces is simply beautiful. He has restored some of the world's greatest treasures over the years and continues to do so. His shop in Oak Bay is full of antiquarian book collections that most of us can only dream of owning. Paul also has a vast collection of centuries old jewellery items for sale and beautiful unique pieces which were made by his late wife Margaret. Paul is the true master and uses unique methods to help restore and preserve these masterpieces. Walking into his shop is like entering through a portal to another world. Why not pop by and say Hi to this amazingly talented man and see for yourself his collection of timeless pieces. Paul would be only too happy to introduce you to his world and you will leave feeling enlightened and exilerated. .... like I did. What an amazing journey through history and the world of antiquarian bookbinding. Thank you for the experience. .... this won't be my only visit.

Peter A Conradi

The wealth of knowledge and skill housed in this small store is beyond what one could expect in this day and age.

Kelly Woods

I had the most fabulous time at Paul’s shop! He truly is a Renaissance man, with an encyclopedic knowledge of his craft. I bought a beautiful book for my husband and a lovely bracelet for my daughter. He so kindly gave me an extra gift for me! He brightened what has been a very dark time for me. Thank you so much Paul;you are a marvel!!