Orologi Russi

Komandirskie Missile Troops and Artillery: History, Symbols, and Military Identity

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russian watch Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops

Discovering the Watch

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.

russian watch Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops
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.

Double-headed Eagle: Symbolism and History of an Ancient Icon

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Double-headed Eagle: Symbolism and History of an Ancient Icon

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
Raketa two Heads Eagle

The Symbolism of the Double-Headed Eagle in History and Flags

National Flags

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

  1. Belgrade, Serbia: The crest of Belgrade features a double-headed eagle symbolising the city’s protection and defence.
  2. Essen, Germany: The symbol of the double-headed eagle appears in Essen’s crest, representing the city’s historical importance and influence.
  3. Velletri, Italy: Velletri also uses the double-headed eagle in its crest, symbolising its ancient origin and historical continuity.
  4. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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):

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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):

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.

russian watch Zim two headed eagle
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
Pobeda Pocket watch – dial

Discovering the Charm of Soviet and Russian Watch Collections

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Ritaglio schermata pagina Lancette Sovietiche Collezionare Sovietaly intervista

It may seem unusual, but sometimes a collection of Soviet/Russian watches can capture the attention and appreciation of even those who are not experts in the field. This intriguing niche of collecting has recently been highlighted in an interview published by the magazine “Collezionare,” available in both print and digital formats (www.collezionare.com).

The Magazine “Collezionare”

The magazine “Collezionare” is a specialized publication focused on the world of collecting, offering in-depth articles, news, and interviews on a wide range of collectible items. From vintage to antiques and modern collectibles, the magazine serves as an authoritative and up-to-date resource for enthusiasts. Available in both print and online versions, “Collezionare” stands out for the quality of its content and the passion with which it tells the stories of collectors and their unique collections.

Two years ago, I contacted several journals related to collecting to promote my father’s Pirelli advertisement collection, including “Collezionare”. The interview with my father can be found at this link. Given the existing contact, a couple of months ago I reached out again to the journalist who conducted the interview, suggesting she might also be interested in my collection of Soviet/Russian watches. A few days later, she contacted me to schedule a phone interview.

Ritaglio schermata pagina Lancette Sovietiche Collezionare Sovietaly intervista
Lancette Sovietiche collezionare online

On April 14, 2018, the online version of the interview was published and can be read at this link.

Soviet Watches

In the interview, Andrea Manini, a 44-year-old from Milan who has been collecting since 1992, shares insights into his collection of over 400 Russian watches. “What I really enjoy is that, unlike Swiss watches, Russian ones always have a story to tell.”

The Stories Behind Soviet Watches

Many stories surround Soviet watchmaking, particularly those involving Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space. The watch he wore during the 1961 mission is still a mystery. Some claim it was a Poljot Sturmanskie, produced by the First Moscow Watch Factory, often referred to as the Russian equivalent of the Speedmaster used by Armstrong and Aldrin on the moon. Others believe it was the Type One by Sturmanskie, citing a photo where Gagarin wears this model over his red suit. “But who can say for sure? Maybe it was just a training shot,” says Andrea, emphasizing the mystery that often surrounds these famous timepieces.

The Influence of History on Soviet Watchmaking

The end of the Soviet Union in the early 1990s marked the beginning of a new era for Russian watchmaking in Italy. Andrea, like many other enthusiasts, started his collection in 1992, the year after the USSR’s dissolution. “1992 is my year zero, the year I began to appreciate these beautiful watches. That year, the first after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, all the unique goods from the former USSR became very sought after, including Russian watches, which started appearing in our jewelry stores. Over the years, I have expanded my collection to about 400 pieces.”

Early Discoveries

Andrea’s first purchase was a Vostok Komandirskie wristwatch. “The military look and the rocket on the dial attracted me, and only later did I discover that it was a Vostok Komandirskie model, with the Vostok 1 rocket that Gagarin used to orbit the Earth in 1961.”

Collection Categories

Russian watches are categorized in various ways. Andrea focuses on Russian space adventures and Soviet watches made for the Italian market. Other themes include Soviet polar explorations and Russian railways, particularly the BAM line.

The History of Russian Watchmaking

Russian watchmaking has a complex history intertwined with the country’s social, political, and military developments. During the Tsarist era, watches were mainly produced by artisanal workshops. With the advent of the Soviet Union, watch production became essential for both civilians and the military. Initially, pocket watches were produced, but gradually, wristwatches became the focus.

Watch Factories

Numerous companies arose in the Soviet Union, named after war or space adventures. “The First Moscow Watch Factory, later named Poljot (which means flight), Raketa (rocket), Pobeda (victory, dedicated to WWII), and Chaika (seagull, which was Valentina Tereshkova’s code name during her space flight).”

Export and Marketing

In the 1960s and 70s, Soviet watches were exported at low prices to promote sales. This was a state-imposed strategy. In Italy, Russian watchmaking has often been underrated due to its proximity to Switzerland. However, the Russians understood the importance of marketing and created watches with logos for export or specific models for certain markets.

Rare Models

Among the rarest models in Andrea’s collection is a Raketa Big Zero with a nephrite dial, a green stone similar to jade. Finding rare models is challenging, especially online where many fakes and assembled pieces are sold.

Tips for Collectors

To avoid buying fakes, Andrea advises consulting more experienced and reliable collectors. “Today, there are many forums and groups where you can exchange opinions and advice.”

This collection of Soviet/Russian watches, with its rich history and intriguing models, continues to captivate not only enthusiasts but also newcomers to the world of collecting.

Raketa Khersones: A 24-hour Watch Celebrating the Iconic Russian Training Ship

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Close-up of a Khersones wristwatch showing different world cities and a ship illustration on the dial.

The Raketa Khersones is a timepiece that truly embodies the spirit of seafaring and pays homage to one of Russia’s most celebrated training ships. Its nautical design immediately catches the eye: crisp whites, metallic and blue tones, an internal rotating bezel displaying city names in English, and at the centre, a detailed image of the Khersones sailing ship. The chromed case, black bezel and signature TiN (titanium nitride) finishing make this 24-hour model stand out, powered by the reliable Raketa 2623.H movement.

The Khersones Training Ship

The Khersones is a three-masted tall ship built in 1989 at the renowned Gdańsk shipyard in Poland, part of a distinguished series of six sister ships (the most famous being the Mir). It measures 108.6 metres in length, 14 metres across, and boasts a main mast height of nearly 50 metres. With a sail area of 2,771 m², the Khersones can achieve impressive speeds relying solely on wind power.
Designed for the training of cadets at the Black Sea State Academy of Navigation, Khersones has taken part in numerous international regattas, earning an excellent reputation among Russian training ships.

russian watch Raketa Kersones
Raketa Kersones

Historical Highlights and Curiosities

  • Launch and early years: Launched in 1989, Khersones immediately set sail as a training vessel, standing out in major international regattas.
  • World circumnavigation: Between 1997 and 1998, it completed a round-the-world voyage, visiting ports across five continents and acting as a floating ambassador for Russian seamanship.
  • Film and media fame: The ship has appeared in several films and documentaries, cementing its status as a maritime icon well beyond the sailing world.
  • Present day: Today, Khersones sails under the Russian flag, mainly seen in the Black Sea near Sevastopol, where it continues to serve as a training ship.

Would you like to track its current location? See it live on MarineTraffic.

Collecting the Raketa Khersones

Collecting watches such as the Raketa Khersones is a way to dive into the world of Soviet watchmaking and celebrate the legacy of historic sailing ships. Personally, I enjoy pairing these watches with related memorabilia—stamps, postcards, and pins featuring Khersones make any collection even more evocative.

Features of the Raketa Khersones Watch

  • Dial: 24-hour, featuring an image of the Khersones
  • Case: Typical Raketa 24h, with TiN finishing
  • Bezel: Internal rotating, city names in English
  • Movement: Raketa 2623.H 24h, sturdy and reliable
  • Style: Distinctly nautical, with metallic and blue details
  • Wearability: Perfect for fans of technical timepieces looking for something unique and original

Conclusion

The Raketa Khersones is more than a beautiful accessory; it is a true tribute to maritime history and the prestige of the Russian training ship. Owning this watch means appreciating both the art of navigation and the craftsmanship that makes every detail of this timepiece remarkable.

A Vostok with a Very Particular Asymmetric Case

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russian watch Vostok Komandirskie asimmetric case

Do all watches have symmetric cases? The answer is clearly NO. Although in most cases the case is symmetric, designers sometimes decide to vary the design, creating some dynamism. A few months ago, I bought a Vostok Komandirskie in poor condition but with the peculiarity of having an asymmetric case.

Today I want to talk about a watch I found a few months ago on eBay that intrigued me quite a bit. The dial is quite plain, but the asymmetric case enlivens the look of this watch.

russian watch Vostok Komandirskie asimmetric case
Vostok Komandirskie asimmetric case

Watch Description

  • Brand and Model: Vostok Komandirskie
  • Case: Asymmetric with TiN (Titanium Nitride) finish
  • Dial: Blue with gold and white indices. The hours are indicated with gold Arabic numerals on a black background, and there is a date window at 3 o’clock.
  • Hands: Gold with luminescent inserts, the second hand is red.
  • Bezel: Peculiar with indices characterized by red and black triangles and a red dot at 12 o’clock.
  • Movement: Classic 2414A manual winding.
  • Case Back: Features the engraving of a rising sun, presumably original.

Analysis of the Asymmetric Case

The asymmetric case of this Vostok Komandirskie is a distinctive feature that immediately catches the eye. The TiN finish gives the watch superior resistance and an elegant appearance. The bezel, with its unique indices, adds another element of visual interest.

Historical and Collecting Research

Doing some online research and talking with some foreign collectors, it seems that this case is quite common but not officially cataloged. Therefore, it lacks an identifying code in the known schematics. This makes the watch even more fascinating for collectors, as it represents a sort of undocumented mystery.

Other Examples of Asymmetric Cases

This is not the only case of an asymmetric case in the history of Soviet watchmaking. There are fine examples of Stolichnie, Raketa, and clearly Vostok watches, to name those I remember. Some simple details can make a seemingly minimal-value Komandirskie interesting.

Conclusion

The Vostok Komandirskie watch with an asymmetric case represents a unique and fascinating piece, both aesthetically and from a collecting perspective. The combination of distinctive design, TiN finish, and classic technical features makes it a noteworthy specimen in the history of Soviet watches.

Discover the Rare Vostok Buran Watch: A Tribute to Soviet Polar Aviation

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Primo piano di un orologio Vostok Buran celebrativo della Polar Aviation sovietica. Proprietà di Sovietaly.

Three Penguins and a Polar Bear on the Dial of a Vostok Buran

Introduction

Today, I am wearing an intriguing watch from the USSR, which I believe is often overlooked, particularly in Italy, due to a lack of understanding of its historical significance. While many theories about this watch can be found online, few are based on solid evidence. The watch in question is the Vostok Buran, dedicated to Soviet Polar Aviation.

You can view some fascinating images from the historical archive of Russian Aeroflot here.

The Dial of the Polar Aviation Watch

The dial of this watch is divided into two distinct areas:

soviet watch Vostok Polar aviation

Vostok Polar Aviation

At the top, there is a blue semicircle with the Cyrillic inscription “БУРАН” (Buran, meaning blizzard). Inside this semicircle, there is a depiction of a polar bear, an animal native to the northern hemisphere and the North Pole.

Three Penguins

At the bottom, there are three penguins, which are typical of the southern hemisphere and the South Pole. Alongside the penguins is the logo that currently represents Aeroflot.

Today, Polar Aviation is considered a subsidiary of Aeroflot, and its services are carried out under a unified brand.

Photographic Evidence of Polar Aviation

Historical Context

Established in 1934, Soviet Polar Aviation remained active until 1970. It serviced all polar routes to and from the most remote countries and scientific stations located in the Arctic regions of the planet.

Many intriguing details about this period can be found here. Unfortunately, the history of Polar Aviation is marked by numerous accidents and disasters.

Service to Arctic Islands

Polar Aviation also served many Arctic islands, providing crucial services such as mail, medicines, and food supplies to the island inhabitants.

A particularly interesting website, albeit in Russian, provides insights into the life on Dickson Island. Thanks to Google Translate, you can explore the historical photos showing Soviet Polar Aviation planes and helicopters here.

The Watch Itself

The Vostok Buran watch is well-crafted and comfortable to wear. It was primarily released for the Italian market, identifiable by the typical case back and the high-quality leather strap marked in several places. This watch deserves a prominent place in any Russian watch enthusiast’s collection.