This weekend, classic car enthusiasts, memorabilia collectors and motoring history buffs will have the rare opportunity to secure pieces from one of Australia’s most legendary private collections as the exceptional Cremorne garage of the late David Jones AO OBE KstJ goes under the hammer.
Lovingly curated over four decades by the respected former Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) President and Mobil Oil executive, the Cremorne garage has long been whispered about among collectors as a treasure trove of extraordinary vehicles, rare automobilia and unmatched vintage garage collectibles.
The warehouse, dubbed an “Aladdin’s cave” by those fortunate enough to have entered is home to a meticulously curated collection that reflected both David’s lifelong passion and sharp eye for quality.
Leading the 1000+ lot auction are two standout vehicles including, an immaculate 1972 Ferrari 246 GT Dino, expected to go for between $800,000 and $1m and a triple-concours-winning 1955 MG TF.
But what truly sets this auction apart is the overwhelming scale and diversity of motoring memorabilia, featuring everything from rare petrol pumps number plates, and antique oil cabinets to original signs from historic Australian oil companies.
A circa 1913 ‘6-666’ number plate is estimated to fetch $350,000 to $400,000, with bids starting at $80,000. While a jaw-dropping 1923 Wayne ‘Corinthian’ 5-gallon petrol pump, described as the “Rolls-Royce of pumps,” will go for more than $20,000.
David’s fascination with the motoring world began during his early career with Mobil, sparking a passion that saw him become one of the earliest and most discerning collectors of automotive memorabilia in Australia well before the category gained mainstream popularity.
Also featured are hundreds of scale-model cars many of which mirror their full-sized counterparts—alongside rare garage equipment, vintage advertising displays, and heritage items from the golden age of motoring. From enamel signs to petrol bowsers, and tin toys to rare automobilia, every item tells a story of an era gone by.
This landmark auction represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity. The scale and quality of the Garage collection is unmatched, and is unlikely to ever be seen again in a single offering.