John Mateyko

John Mateyko calls the charming and rustic community of Serenbe, Georgia home—a place known for its scenic beauty and creative spirit, even featured on the Today Show. Through his personal website, John Mateyko shares a glimpse into his vibrant life, highlighting his passion for watch collecting, photography, and nature.

John Mateyko’s Role in Building a Thriving Community

Community is at the heart of John Mateyko’s journey. In 2021, he founded the Serenbe Athletic Association, where he now serves as Commissioner and announcer for the co-ed Chicago-style softball and kickball leagues. His efforts bring people together, making Serenbe not just a place to live but a true community.

John Mateyko also plays an important role in Serenbe’s cultural life through his involvement with Center Stage at Serenbe. His theatrical contributions have helped raise over $450,000 for Terra Academy. Notable productions led by John Mateyko include The Trial of Ebenezer Scrooge (2021), It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play (2023 & 2025), and Die Hard: Once Upon a Time at Nakatomi Plaza (2024). He is currently preparing for the highly anticipated musical Mamma Mia.

John Mateyko’s Creative Journey in Film

Beyond community and theater, John Mateyko has explored opportunities in the film industry. He worked as Christian Bale’s stand-in for two major Hollywood productions—Batman Begins (2005) and Public Enemies (2009). These experiences gave John Mateyko a unique perspective on filmmaking and deepened his appreciation for the creative process.

John Mateyko and the Timeless Art of Watch Collecting

One of John Mateyko’s greatest passions is his love for functional and elegant timepieces. His collection celebrates simplicity, craftsmanship, and everyday utility. At its core are the legendary Casio G-Shock square-faced models, admired for their durability and timeless appeal.

John Mateyko also enjoys vintage-inspired diver watches that pay tribute to traditional watchmaking while offering modern reliability. He holds a special admiration for the Seiko family of brands—from practical everyday Seiko models to the refined luxury of Grand Seiko and the artistic beauty of Credor.

His philosophy as a collector stands out:

“The more boring, the better.”

This simple yet powerful belief reflects John Mateyko’s appreciation for subtle design, purposeful craftsmanship, and reliable companions for life’s adventures.

John Mateyko’s Family and Memorable Travels

Family plays a central role in John Mateyko’s life. He proposed to his wife Slavyana at the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany—a romantic moment that marked the beginning of many shared adventures. Their honeymoon on the Amalfi Coast, baby-moon in Rome and Lake Como, and summers spent with their son Sasha at TASIS camp in Lugano, Switzerland, reflect John Mateyko’s love for travel and family traditions.

John Mateyko’s Eye for Photography and Nature

Through photography, John Mateyko captures the beauty of his surroundings—whether it’s stunning landscapes or intricate architectural details. His passion for nature has taken him around the world, scuba diving in the Philippines, Hawaii, Mexico, Costa Rica, Italy, Portugal, and even swimming alongside whale sharks at the Georgia Aquarium.

An adventurer at heart, John Mateyko has also competed and won the Midwinters San Francisco Bay Race as a crew member on a Beneteau 50 and biked down the Haleakala volcano in Maui—experiences that reflect his love for exploration and the outdoors.

John Mateyko: A Life Rich with Purpose and Passion

Surrounded by the natural beauty and artistic culture of Serenbe, John Mateyko continues to live a life defined by creativity, community engagement, and personal passions. Whether he’s collecting watches, contributing to theater, capturing stunning images, or sharing adventures with his family, John Mateyko embodies a lifestyle that values both purpose and joy.