Greetings Kai and welcome from New York City! Do not be sad about the "one that got away". I have always found that when something like this happens to me, something much better always comes along to take its place. When you finally do find that special pen, it's going to be such a winner!
I also love vintage pens. Nothing compares to the feeling of writing with a vintage flex nib. I always wonder who owned the pen and what they did in their lives. These objects come from a time when we were not a throwaway society as we are now. People cared for things and treasured them which is why we have them today.
There are wonderful people on this forum who can advise you and steer you in the right direction, and many of them live in Australia.
At the D.C. show two years ago, I finally found what I considered to be the ultimate pen: a large Conklin Crescent Filler in pristine condition. It was so perfect, it appeared to be brand new.
Through this forum I learned about the art of maki-e. If you are unfamiliar with this art, check it out on this forum and on the internet. Check out my recent thread on a wonderful maki-e treasure I was able to purchase. I guarantee you will be amazed and on your way to spending lots of money!
, went back to the shop 2 days later but it was gone already 