I’m Koray, chief scrounger (reference to the Great Escape movie) of this Sydney-based haven for vintage and neo-vintage watches. I’m always on the look-out for vintage Carrera, Monza and anything motor sport related. My journey into the world of horology began with a single impulsive purchase. As they say, one thing led to another and the whole thing quickly escalated into a full-blown obsession. Before I knew it, my sock drawer was overflowing with leather straps, spring bars, and spare dials. Naturally, I did what any watch enthusiast would do—I decided to impose my obsession on you!
At Crown Vintage, we specialise in sourcing exquisite timepieces from iconic brands like Rolex, Omega, Cartier, and, of course, those Heuer legends that deserve more than just a passing glance. Whether it’s a patina-rich dial or a quirky sub-dial layout—looking at you, Heuer Monza—we’re all about watches with character, history, and just the right amount of mystery.
But let’s be clear—this isn’t just about watches; it’s about stories. The ones behind each timepiece and the ones you’ll create while wearing them. So, whether you’re after a showstopper for your wrist or just browsing for inspiration, Crown Vintage is here to ensure you never lose track of time—figuratively or literally.
Feel free to reach out with questions, wish lists, or to chat about watches—I promise I’ll try not to mention the Calibre 12 too many times.
Obsession?
Everything Carrera! Whether it’s a vintage Heuer Carrera or a Porsche Carrera, I’m all in. But let’s be clear—I draw the line at those naff 1980s Carrera sunglasses. Some things should be left in the glovebox, and thankfully, none of them are for sale here.
First (decent) watch?
My first decent watch was an Omega Speedmaster—the Moonwatch itself. That watch sparked an obsession I never saw coming. What started as a single chronograph quickly snowballed into late-night eBay bids, endless strap swaps, and a mild panic attack the first time I scratched the crystal. It’s still one of my favourites—though these days, I wear it a bit less, mostly to avoid explaining to strangers how the tachymetre works. Someone showed me once, but I have no clue how to use it
Grail watch?
If there’s one watch that haunts my dreams—it’s the Rolex Explorer II 1655 ‘Steve McQueen’ (even though he apparently never wore one), it’s the ultimate adventure watch. Built for spelunkers—yes, actual cave explorers—it has a bright orange 24-hour hand to stop you from losing track of day and night. Not that I’ve ever been stuck in a cave, but I reckon it’d also come in handy after a big night out.
Do I own one? Sadly, no. But that hasn’t stopped me from gazing longingly at listings, mentally justifying the price, and then deciding my kidneys are probably worth more. Until I finally take the plunge—or win the lottery—I’ll just keep talking about it like we’re already mates. So if you’ve got one and feel like making a grown man cry, feel free to drop in and show it off!
