There are collectors, and then there are true connoisseurs. The kind who doesn’t just accumulate watches, but curates stories and matches them with events. Alexander Kraft belongs firmly to the latter.
I first found myself drawn to his unmistakable sense of style, only to become completely fascinated by his watches.
Join me as we take a closer look at his collection.
A personal classic
Among the many exceptional pieces in his collection, one watch stands out for its emotional value: the Rolex GMT-Master 1675 ‘Cornino’. A gift from his parents upon graduating from law school, it represents far more than horology; it marks a milestone.
The reference 1675 is, in many ways, the archetype of the vintage GMT. Often overshadowed by its modern “Pepsi” successors, it carries a lot of history that newer models simply cannot replicate. The proportions, the faded bezel, the warmth of the aged lume, all elements that speak to decades of travel and timekeeping.
Personally, it remains one of my favourite watches. There’s something incredibly pure about it, especially when paired with its original riveted Oyster bracelet which seems light, slightly fragile, yet full of character.And yet, in typical Kraft fashion, convention is reinterpreted. Instead of the steel bracelet, he opts for a brown leather strap, giving it a more relaxed, almost Mediterranean elegance, like most of his watches.
Rolex Daytona Obsession
If there is one category that defines Alexander Kraft as a collector, it is undoubtedly the Rolex Daytona. As he also states, the vintage reference 6263 with the infamous ‘Paul Newman’ dial is his favourite of all time watch.
He owns multiple examples of nearly every important vintage reference, often in duplicate with both black and white dials; a clear sign of how deliberately the collection has been built. Within this already impressive lineup, a few pieces naturally stand out. His collection includes several variations of the 6241, alongside key references like the 6239 and 6263. It also goes deeper into Rolex’s history with pre-Daytona chronographs such as the 6032 and 6034, which add a more connoisseur-level dimension. At the same time, he incorporates later icons like the Zenith-powered 16520 Daytona and the full-gold 16518, bringing a subtle modern contrast to the otherwise vintage-focused collection.
The John Player Special
The Rolex Daytona 6241 is among the most coveted Daytona’s ever produced. This particular example, crafted in yellow gold and fitted with its original full gold bracelet, is exceptionally rare, with apparently only around 300 pieces believed to exist.
It is, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful Daytona’s ever made. The proportions are perfect, the presence on the wrist unmatched, and the bracelet itself is a work of art. Unlike many watches in his collection, this one remains on its original bracelet, exactly as it should be.
The “Lemon Dial” Paul Newman
Even rarer is the Rolex Daytona 6241 Paul Newman Lemon Dial; a watch that seems the same as other vintage gold Daytona’s, however is a lot rarer due to its dial. Crafted in 18k yellow gold and fitted with a so-called “lemon dial,” it features a unique, warm-toned coloration that collectors obsess over.
Adding to its charm is the tropical outer scale, subtly aged over time, giving the watch an almost organic uniqueness. Valued somewhere between €500.000 and €1.000.000, it is not just rare but deeply desirable.
Interestingly, Kraft once again chooses to mount it on a black leather strap, reinforcing his signature approach.
Pre-Daytona References
The Rolex 6036 is one of the most fascinating chronographs the brand has ever produced. This stainless steel, manual-winding triple calendar chronograph displays the day, date, and month alongside its chronograph function, combining technical complexity with elegant design. Produced in only a few hundred examples during the 1950s, it remains exceptionally rare. Often referred to as the “Jean-Claude Killy,” its nickname comes from the Olympic champion who famously wore the model, further elevating its status among collectors.
Another important piece is the Rolex 6034, widely considered one of the earliest steps toward what would later become the Daytona. Introduced in 1950, it features a waterproof Oyster case and a manually wound movement, with production estimated at roughly 1.600 pieces. With a case size of around 36 mm, it wears surprisingly well on the wrist. Having tried one myself at auction, I can say that it stands out as a very enjoyable and understated watch. This is a piece I like to put in the category of ‘if you know you know’, since non watch connoisseurs might think this watch could be whatever, but definitely not Rolex.
Moving into a more modern era, the Rolex Daytona 16518 represents one of the most appealing interpretations of the Zenith-powered Daytona. In my opinion, it is even more interesting than the steel versions. With a yellow gold case paired with a leather strap and a gold folding clasp, it strikes a perfect balance between sportiness and elegance without feeling excessive. Priced around 30.000 euros, it offers remarkable value considering its history, movement, and overall presence. Within this collection, it stands out as one of the most accessible yet still highly compelling watches to wear.
Beyond Rolex
While Rolex may dominate, it does not define the entirety of his taste.There is a softer, more refined side to the collection; one that leans more towards elegance and design.
The Cartier Tank Américaine appears at first to be a classic example of the model, yet a closer look reveals its special nature. The small “Paris” signature on the dial identifies it as part of the Collection Privée, giving it an added sense of rarity and refinement.
With its sleek, elongated shape and understated design, it represents French sophistication at its finest and creates an elegant contrast to the stronger presence of his sports watches. Honestly, I know I mention that with almost any single watch I write about, but the fit of a Tank Américaine on the wrist is just incredible. Just like the Cintrée or the Allongée, it wraps so neatly around the wrist and integrates to the point where you do not even feel it is there, but it much rather feels like an added body part.
Equally intriguing is the Ralph Lauren Stirrup Small Seconds. This is a piece that blends equestrian inspiration with vintage aesthetics, reflecting Kraft’s broader lifestyle. It is a watch that is not talked about a lot, since it does not come from one of the great maisons of watchmaking, but a fashion brand. However, Ralph Lauren watches should not be underestimated, because they are often fitted with unique Jaeger LeCoultre movements. The Stirrup is a fine combination of design, aesthetic and watchmaking. I very much cherish this watch, as it has a uniquely different shape than most of the boring round watches and stands out.
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