Antiques
New York is the premier antique source in the country, excellent for browsing, with museum-quality pieces available (typically costing a fortune) as well as lots of interesting, fairly priced stuff at the junkier end of the market. Prime locations are the East and West Villages, SoHo, Chelsea, Lower Broadway and the Upper East Side.

Chameleon 231 Lafayette St (between Spring and Prince sts) tel 212/343-9197.
Interesting collection of antique lighting fixtures dating from the nineteenth century to the 1960s. Many from New York residences.

Chelsea Antiques Building 110 W 25th St (between 6th and 7th aves) tel 212/929-0909.
Better quality, better condition, and higher prices than above listings. 150 dealers on twelve floors offer exceptional estate treasures and collectibles. Open Mon-Fri 10am-6pm, Sat-Sun 8.30am-6pm.

The Showplace 40 W 25th St (between 6th Ave and Broadway) tel 212/741-8520.
Indoor market of more than 100 dealers of antiques and collectibles plus an espresso bar. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat & Sun 8.30am-5.30pm.