One of the key features of Soviet watches is that they contain only Soviet movements. These watches do not feature any external parts; all components were produced within the USSR. The quality of these movements varied depending on the factory, with some periods of excellence and others less so.
Here are some fundamental and curious pieces of information about these movements.
The Codes on Soviet Watch Passports
The codes used to identify Soviet movements were developed and standardized in the 1960s. These codes can be found on the passports that accompanied every watch produced during the Soviet era:
Passaporto sovietico Vostok 2609A
Passaporto sovietico Molnija 3602
What Do the Codes Mean?
Deciphering the code is not particularly complicated. The movement code consists of 4 digits and one or two letters. After the fall of the Soviet Union, more codes were added, and the two digits often became three.
The first two digits represent the movement’s diameter in millimeters.
The next two/three digits represent the specific characteristics of the movement.
The following letters represent the variations that occurred over time.
Movements with the same characteristics produced by different companies have the same code, but this does not mean they are identical. Usually, the movement is identified by the manufacturing company followed by the movement code.
A classic example found on many websites includes:
Slava 2416
Vostok 2416
Poljot 2416
All three movements have a diameter of 24mm, and the 16 identifies them as:
Automatic
Central seconds
Date
Shockproof
For detailed characteristics of the movements, you can find an exhaustive list here.
Online Resources
There is another valuable online resource often used to identify movements and gain related information: Ranfft Watches.
A good understanding of Russian/Soviet movements can often help quickly identify when a watch has been assembled or is not contemporaneous.
Examples of Movements
Some common Vostok movements include:
Vostok 2409
Vostok 2414A
Vostok 2416b
For more detailed characteristics of these movements, you can refer to the Ranfft database.
Conclusion
The subject is vast and complex with many nuances. This guide aims to provide a brief introduction to help you start understanding the complexity of the Russian/Soviet watchmaking world.
All images of the movements can be found at: Ranfft Watches.
Coming across a Komandirskie missile troops watch might seem ordinary for a seasoned collector, but this model holds far more meaning than meets the eye. I found mine by chance, picking it up for just a few euros from a mixed lot—at first, I was simply drawn to its unusual presence. Despite having seen this dial many times, something about this particular example felt special enough to warrant a closer look. As curiosity got the better of me, I decided to investigate the true story behind this cryptic dial.
Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops
The Watch: Features and Details
This piece is a classic Russian Vostok Komandirskie featuring the mechanical 2414 movement and a 439xxx case, confirming its authenticity and military intent. Both the crystal and the case are well-worn—signs of a life well lived—but the watch remains fully functional, a testament to the legendary durability of the Vostok 2414 movement, engineered for harsh conditions.
What truly stands out, however, is the mysterious and elegant emblem at six o’clock on the dial.
Dial Symbols: Laurel, Cannons, and Missile
A closer look at the dial of the Komandirskie missile troops model immediately reveals a complex emblem at six o’clock, made up of three main elements:
A laurel wreath: A universal symbol of military glory and victory.
Two crossed cannons: Representing the artillery tradition and formidable firepower.
A vertical missile: Signifying the modern specialisation of these troops and Russia’s advanced missile capability.
This emblematic combination turns the watch into a miniature symbol of military identity, not merely a timepiece.
Researching the Meaning: The Link to Russian Armed Forces
The mystery of the dial was finally solved after extensive research and with the help of a Dutch collector. I tracked down a military patch online that matched the watch’s emblem perfectly. The inscription “ракетные войска и артиллерия” (raketnye voyska i artilleriya) translates to “Missile Troops and Artillery”.
These units form one of the most strategic branches of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, responsible for everything from strategic defence to battlefield superiority. Every 19th of November, Russia celebrates the “Day of Missile Troops and Artillery”, highlighting the lasting importance of this military branch.
Missile Troops and Artillery: Structure and Roles
Digging deeper, one finds that Russian missile troops and artillery are divided into two main branches:
Ground forces: Engaged in conventional conflict, crucial in both offensive and defensive roles.
Coastal missile and artillery troops: Responsible for coastal defence and naval operations support, often equipped with anti-ship missiles and heavy artillery.
Their broad range of duties includes:
Achieving and maintaining fire superiority on the battlefield.
Destroying enemy nuclear delivery systems, personnel, weaponry and equipment.
Disrupting command, control, reconnaissance and electronic warfare systems.
Attacking and demolishing key defensive and logistical structures.
Isolating rear areas and reserves, blunting enemy counterattacks.
Halting the advance of enemy tanks and armoured vehicles deep within Russian lines.
Flank protection and covering vulnerable junctions.
Thwarting airborne and naval assault operations.
Conducting remote mining and strategic support operations.
Facilitating night-time operations, blinding and disorienting enemy forces with smoke and specialised tactics.
Distributing propaganda materials and supporting psychological operations.
Such a range of roles underscores the essential nature of missile troops and artillery in contemporary Russian military doctrine.
Origins and the Commemorative Meaning of the Watch
With the huge variety of Komandirskie missile troops watches available, it can be difficult to distinguish between versions. Many were produced to mark anniversaries, official holidays or as honorary items for members of these units. The particular model described here was likely commissioned for a special celebration, or more generally as a commemorative item for soldiers, officers or military history enthusiasts.
What is certain is that even a “common” Komandirskie can, upon closer examination, reveal a window into military history, Russian culture and the values that drive these armed forces. – [PHOTO: Wrist shot or close-up of the dial]
Conclusions
The journey of discovery with the Komandirskie missile troops watch shows how even the most unassuming timepiece can reveal tales of symbolism, military structure and strategic doctrine. Analysing the smallest details—from dial emblems to the broader context of commemorative production—shows the true value of these objects: they serve as vessels of identity, memory and pride. For anyone looking to understand the fascinating world of Russian military watches, this is an essential model.d to unexpected in-depth research. Sometimes the only challenge is navigating the numerous military units present in Russia. The watch was probably commissioned for some celebration or simply made like many others to celebrate the armed forces.
The double-headed eagle is one of the most ancient and fascinating symbols in European and world history. Recognisable by its two heads facing opposite directions, this figure has crossed centuries and cultures, embodying power, unity and universal rule. Today, it still features on coats of arms, flags and official insignia.
Origins of the Double-headed Eagle
The first depictions of the double-headed eagle date back to ancient Mesopotamia, where it symbolised strength and divine protection. It was later adopted by the Hittites and other Anatolian peoples. However, it was in the Byzantine Empire that the double-headed eagle gained its iconic status—representing the union of spiritual and temporal power, and the emperor’s claim to rule both East and West.
The Double-headed Eagle in the Byzantine and Russian Empires
After the fall of Constantinople, the symbol was embraced by Tsarist Russia, becoming the official emblem of the Romanov dynasty and, later, the Russian Empire. The black double-headed eagle on a gold background remains a key feature of the Coat of Arms of Russia, symbolising the historical continuity between Byzantium and Russia.
Raketa two Heads Eagle
The Symbolism of the Double-Headed Eagle in History and Flags
National Flags
Albania: The Albanian flag features a black double-headed eagle on a red background. This symbol represents the courage, freedom, and heroism of the Albanian people. The double-headed eagle is associated with Skanderbeg, a national hero who fought against the Ottoman Empire.
Serbia: The Serbian flag incorporates a white double-headed eagle, a symbol representing the country’s sovereignty and unity. The eagle is topped with a crown and holds a sceptre and orb, symbols of power and authority.
Montenegro: The Montenegrin flag shows a gold double-headed eagle with a red shield in the centre. The two heads symbolise the union of church and state, while the shield represents the ruling Petrović-Njegoš dynasty.
City Crests
Belgrade, Serbia: The crest of Belgrade features a double-headed eagle symbolising the city’s protection and defence.
Essen, Germany: The symbol of the double-headed eagle appears in Essen’s crest, representing the city’s historical importance and influence.
Velletri, Italy: Velletri also uses the double-headed eagle in its crest, symbolising its ancient origin and historical continuity.
Rijeka, Croatia: An interesting exception is the city of Rijeka, whose crest features a double-headed eagle with both heads facing to the right, rather than in opposite directions like most other examples.
The Double-Headed Eagle in the Russian Emblem
The double-headed eagle of Russia has a complex and fascinating history. Currently, the official Russian emblem features a gold double-headed eagle on a red background, with the emblem of Moscow (depicting Saint George) superimposed. Over time, the eagle’s colour has changed from gold to black and back again, and the crowns have appeared, disappeared, and reappeared. Today, the two heads of the eagle are surmounted by a single crown with a further crown above it, symbolising unity.
The Objects in the Eagle’s Claws
The Russian double-headed eagle holds two symbols of power in its claws:
Sceptre: In the left claw, the eagle holds a sceptre, representing authority and sovereign power. The sceptre is an ancient regal symbol used by monarchs to indicate their supreme authority.
Orb: In the right claw, the eagle holds an orb, symbolising the universal dominion of Christianity and the divine authority of the sovereign. The orb is topped with a cross, representing God’s sovereignty over the Earth.
Raketa Renaissance
Analysis of the Shields on the Double-Headed Eagle
The images of Russian Zim watches show various designs featuring the double-headed eagle and several symbolic elements. One of the watches displays an eagle with 8 shields on its wings, representing territories of the Russian Empire. Here is a detailed analysis of each shield on the eagle’s wings:
Right Wing (from top to bottom):
Kazan: Represents the Khanate of Kazan, an important Tatar kingdom annexed by Russia in the 16th century. Kazan’s symbol is the dragon Zilant, representing strength and protection.
Poland: Symbolises the Kingdom of Poland, which became part of the Russian Empire after the partitions of Poland in the 18th century. The Polish emblem is the white eagle, a symbol of freedom and sovereignty.
Chersonesus Taurica: Represents the historical region of Crimea, annexed to the Russian Empire in the 18th century. The Crimean shield includes the griffin, a symbol of vigilance and power.
Kiev, Vladimir, and Novgorod: These three shields are combined into one, representing the ancient Russian cities central to the formation of medieval Russia. Kiev is represented by Saint Michael the Archangel, Vladimir by the rampant lion, and Novgorod by Rurik’s trident.
Left Wing (from top to bottom):
Astrakhan: Represents the Khanate of Astrakhan, annexed to Russia in the 16th century. Astrakhan’s symbol is a crown with a sword, representing protection and royalty.
Siberia: Symbolises the vast region of Siberia, explored and colonised by Russia starting in the 16th century. The Siberian shield includes two sables, representing the wealth of natural resources.
Georgia: Represents the Kingdom of Georgia, which became part of the Russian Empire in the 19th century. The Georgian symbol is Saint George slaying the dragon, a symbol of protection and courage.
Finland: Symbolises the Grand Duchy of Finland, an autonomous territory within the Russian Empire from 1809 to 1917. The Finnish emblem shows a lion with a sword, representing strength and sovereignty.
In the centre of the eagle should be the shield of Moscow, surrounded by the Collar of the Order of Saint Andrew. However, this element is likely absent from the watch dial due to the presence of the hands’ pivots.
Zim two headed eagle
Conclusion
Russian watches, like the Zim models from the 1990s, are a classic example of symbolism and propaganda. They provide an opportunity to explore a range of fascinating historical and symbolic topics. The symbolism of the double-headed eagle, present on many flags and crests, represents a deep connection with the history and culture of many nations. Russian and Soviet horology continues to offer interesting insights, and these watches are a perfect example.
Pobeda Pocket watch – dial
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Per fornire le migliori esperienze, utilizziamo tecnologie come i cookie per memorizzare e/o accedere alle informazioni del dispositivo. Il consenso a queste tecnologie ci permetterà di elaborare dati come il comportamento di navigazione o ID unici su questo sito. Non acconsentire o ritirare il consenso può influire negativamente su alcune caratteristiche e funzioni.
Funzionale
Always active
L'archiviazione tecnica o l'accesso sono strettamente necessari al fine legittimo di consentire l'uso di un servizio specifico esplicitamente richiesto dall'abbonato o dall'utente, o al solo scopo di effettuare la trasmissione di una comunicazione su una rete di comunicazione elettronica.
Preferenze
L'archiviazione tecnica o l'accesso sono necessari per lo scopo legittimo di memorizzare le preferenze che non sono richieste dall'abbonato o dall'utente.
Statistiche
L'archiviazione tecnica o l'accesso che viene utilizzato esclusivamente per scopi statistici.L'archiviazione tecnica o l'accesso che viene utilizzato esclusivamente per scopi statistici anonimi. Senza un mandato di comparizione, una conformità volontaria da parte del vostro Fornitore di Servizi Internet, o ulteriori registrazioni da parte di terzi, le informazioni memorizzate o recuperate per questo scopo da sole non possono di solito essere utilizzate per l'identificazione.
Marketing
L'archiviazione tecnica o l'accesso sono necessari per creare profili di utenti per inviare pubblicità, o per tracciare l'utente su un sito web o su diversi siti web per scopi di marketing simili.
