A Harbourside Treasure Where Maritime History Meets Artistic Legacy, 300m to Camp Cove Beach

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12 Cliff Street, Watsons Bay NSW 2030

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$7.5M - $8.25M High Confidence Calculated based on strong search observations.

House 5 Beds 4 Baths

Listed: 58 days ago

Updated: 2 days ago

Overview

Steeped in maritime history and artistic legacy, this circa 1860 double-fronted cottage offers an extraordinary lifestyle opportunity in Watsons Bay. Once the residence of Sydney Harbour's Harbour Master and later inspiring celebrated Australian artist John Olsen, the home combines historical charm with contemporary family living.

The property's interior is defined by soaring 3.4-meter ceilings and limewashed floorboards, creating a bright and invigorating atmosphere complemented by carefully curated bursts of color. The layout is designed with family functionality in mind, featuring three expansive king-sized bedrooms on one level and a master retreat boasting a harbor-view deck that accentuates the property's connection to the surrounding waterscape.

An inviting family room anchored by a fireplace provides a cozy communal space, while the chef's kitchen is equipped with an Ilve range cooker, stone breakfast island, and walk-in pantry, facilitating both everyday meals and entertaining. Spacious living and dining areas are enhanced by custom joinery and steel-framed bi-fold doors that open seamlessly to a charming courtyard.

The enchanting outdoor spaces include a bougainvillea-framed deck that offers refreshing sea breezes, ideal for relaxation or social gatherings.
A lower-level media retreat provides flexible use, whether as a fifth bedroom or dedicated entertainment area.
Luxury finishes are evident in the designer marble-finished bathrooms and a powder room, while hydronic central heating ensures consistent comfort year-round.

Positioned just 300 meters from Camp Cove Beach and close to the ferry wharf, iconic eateries like Doyles, and the Watsons Bay Hotel, the home integrates the best of coastal village living with accessibility to Sydney’s broader amenities. This residence offers a rare combination of historical significance, artistic inspiration, spacious and thoughtful living spaces, and superb location in one of Australia's most picturesque seaside settings.

Local Market Insights

In Watsons Bay, Quiet Listings observed 17 new houses entering the market over the last 30 days, down from 21 during the previous 30-day period, with an average advertised asking price of $10,493,367. The property type mix of listed properties is predominantly Houses at 72%, followed by apartments (16%), and units (4%). The most active agency for houses in the Watsons Bay area is currently Ray White, representing 24% of new listings, followed by Biller Property with 18%. These insights are based on agencies currently monitored by Quiet Listings and are updated as the local market changes.

While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the property information provided, no guarantee is given. Buyers should independently verify all details, inclusions, availability, pricing, and other relevant information directly with the listing agent before relying on this information.