In the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, certain spots seem to have changed almost not at all despite the passing decades. Such is the case with Le Plat d’Étain, a small, unassuming shop located on Rue Guisarde since… 1775. Behind its red storefront and display windows filled with miniature figurines, this shop in the 6th arrondissement has stood the test of time without losing its identity.
A shop frozen in time in the heart of Paris
In this very special shop, the shelves are overflowing with tin soldiers, miniature scenery, horses, carriages, and historical figurines, all carefully arranged. The whole place resembles as much a shop as a small museum dedicated to history and antique toys.
For over two centuries, the shop has attracted collectors and military history enthusiasts . It features pieces representing different eras, from the French Revolution to the world wars, including the First Empire. Each figurine is painted with an impressive level of detail, which partly explains the shop’s international reputation.
This place is also linked to its share of little anecdotes. Among the most famous regulars, it is said that the young Charles de Gaulle used to come regularly to buy toy soldiers with his brothers in order to recreate the great Napoleonic battles.
What strikes one most today is the contrast between this almost untouched shop and the neighborhood surrounding it. Amid the cafés, restaurants, and more modern shops of Saint-Germain, Au Plat d’Étain retains a very old-fashioned charm. Even the storefront seems to belong to another era.
The shop, however, continues to operate as a true specialty store. The sales staff know the collections inside and out, advise collectors, and even offer restoration and repair services for certain antique pieces. A level of expertise that has become rare in Paris.
Au Plat d’Étain is one of those historic shops that still gives you the feeling of discovering a well-kept secret around a street corner.
📍Au Plat d’Étain – 16, rue Guisarde, 75006