Change of Ownership for Rare Device

“Opening Rare Device in San Francisco was a dream come true for both of us,” remarked Tom upon announcing the decision to sell the business. Congdon adds, “It’s been wonderful being part of the Upper Market community for the past three years; Rena and I have thoroughly enjoyed every aspect sharing Rare Device with our neighbors and all of our loyal customers.” After the transition to new ownership takes place in early February, Tom plans to spend more time with her one-year-old son and build her retail consulting practice. Congdon, who has been splitting her time between Rare Device and her art studio, will focus her energies fully on her art and illustration career and the upcoming release of her first book, A Collection a Day.

Tom and Congdon are selling Rare Device to San Francisco couple, Giselle and Phurba Gyalzen. The Gyalzen’s met in San Francisco 10 years ago, and quickly discovered their mutual love of beautiful objects. Scouring flea markets, open studios and every modern home store in the Bay Area, they’ve created a comfortable environment in their home that combines both vintage and modern aesthetic. When they’re not trekking through San Francisco exploring all of its beauty and bounty, they can be found in the comforts of their home hanging out with their daughter, Ophelia and Momo, their tiny blind Chihuahua.

Giselle Gyalzen has always dreamed of owning a store. After their daughter was born she left her high demand career in advertising to follow her dream. The Gyalzen’s are looking forward to sharing their distinct aesthetic through Rare Device. Both are admirers of artists, crafters, designers and technology. First time shop owners, they are ready and exhilarated to begin. They will continue to carry many of the beautiful objects Rare Device has carried in the past and look forward adding new and exciting products in the near future like Oots Lunch Boxes, Glob Natural Paint, Yellow Label Rattles and Canvas Home accessories. San Francisco artist Mati McDonough is rumored to be painting a mural in the new expanded children’s section of the store, which is sure to be a show-stopper.

During the transition, Rare Device will close February 7-14 and reopen under new ownership on February 15. After the re-opening, the store will be open Tuesday through Saturday 11-6 pm and Sunday 12-6 pm (closed Mondays). The Gyalzen’s will hold a grand opening party Saturday, February 19 from 11 am to 6 pm. Customers who bring a book or school supplies to donate to the Cambodian Children's Book Project (http://www.facebook.com/cambodianchildren) will get 10% off their entire purchase. Refreshments will be served.

Rare Device is located at 1845 Market Street at Guerrero in San Francisco. For more information, please call the store at 415.863.3969, check out the website at www.raredevice.net, or e-mail info@raredevice.net.