collezionismo orologi

Raketa ЗАЭС- 10 Years Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant: Atomic Energy, Russian Watches, and Red Jasper

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 0 Comment
russian watch Raketa 10 years Zaporizhzhia

Among my favorite Russian and Soviet watches are those made by Raketa with stone dials. I own several, each unique due to the distinct patterns of the stone. The two most commonly used stones are Jasper and Nephrite.

The History and Craftsmanship of Raketa Stone Dials

One might initially wonder why Raketa produces watches with stone dials. The reason is deeply rooted in the origins of the Petrodvorets Watch Factory. Originally known as the Imperial Workshop for Precious Stone Processing, it was established by Tsar Peter the Great in 1721. Hence, it is natural for the factory’s expertise in working with precious and semi-precious stones to extend to watchmaking. You can find various examples of both Nephrite and Jasper dials on the Raketa brand’s official website.

Raketa 10 Years Zaporizhzhia Commemorative Watch

This watch exists in at least two known versions: a general version and a commemorative version celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant. The commemorative version in my possession features a white Roman numeral “X” on the dial. This “X” is absent in the standard version. According to the ABOUT US page of the official website of the nuclear power plant, the first reactor was commissioned in 1984. Therefore, the Raketa ЗАЭС commemorative watch for the 10th anniversary dates back to 1994, during the post-Soviet period.

Unique Features of the Raketa ЗАЭС

The stone dial of this watch includes two overprints (a typical technique for stone dials). The first is a gold print indicating minutes on the outer part of the dial, featuring the atomic symbol and the inscription “ЗАЭС” over horizontal lines. The second print is white, showing the hour markers in Arabic numerals, except at 6 and 12 o’clock, where a gear/sun symbol appears. The white Roman numeral “X” denotes the 10th anniversary of the nuclear power plant’s operation.

Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant

This is the name of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, located in present-day Ukraine. The plant is of Soviet origin, with construction initiated in 1977. As of 2021, it remains operational, with decommissioning planned in phases between 2030 and 2041. The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant is the largest nuclear power plant in Europe and one of the ten largest in the world.

Here are three main links providing information about the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant:

The Raketa ЗАЭС Watch

The distinctive shape of the Raketa Zero gold-plated case enhances the appeal of this watch. The simple shapes of the case harmonize well with the complexity of the dial. The hands are also gold-plated and thin. The back of the watch is straightforward, with a stainless steel back and the serial number 885 engraved.

Technical Specifications

The watch houses a Raketa R2609 caliber with 19 jewels, featuring inscriptions in English for export purposes. This particular stone dial watch is one of the most beautiful in my collection and is quite challenging to find, especially in the 1994 commemorative version. It was likely a gift to shareholders or personnel of the nuclear power plant.

Raketa Zero KGB: A Watch Between History and Hindu Symbolism

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 0 Comment
russian watch Raketa KGB Cosmogony

The Raketa Zero KGB watch is not just a functional object but also a vehicle of deep symbolic meanings. Let’s first examine its technical characteristics and then the symbols on its dial and their meanings.

Characteristics of the Watch

The Raketa Zero KGB is an example of a Soviet watch with a chromed brass case. Here are some of its main specifications:

  • Case: Chromed brass, giving it a robust yet elegant appearance.
  • Movement: The Raketa Zero KGB is powered by the 2609 caliber, a manual mechanical movement known for its reliability and simplicity.
  • Dial: The dial features three elephants supporting a grassy platform with a stylized representation of the Moscow Kremlin and the Cyrillic inscription “KGB” underneath them.
  • Functions: Time-only, without additional complications.

Link for further reading on the 2609 caliber:

The Dial of the Raketa Zero KGB

The dial of the Raketa Zero KGB is rich with symbols that tell a complex and fascinating story.

The Elephants

In Indian mythology, as well as in other cultures, elephants are often depicted as creatures of great strength and stability. They are associated with wisdom, power, and longevity. In Hindu cosmology, the Akupāra myth describes a turtle supporting four elephants, which in turn support the world. This symbolism is rich in meanings:

  • Stability and Strength: The elephants represent the solid foundation on which the world rests, symbolizing the stability and strength necessary to support large structures or concepts.
  • Sustainability and Support: The presence of the elephants suggests robust and reliable support, qualities reflected in the vital functions of institutions or nations.

Further reading:

The Kremlin

The Moscow Kremlin is a powerful symbol of Russia. It not only represents the center of political and military power but is also a cultural and historical symbol:

  • Political Power: As the seat of the Russian government, the Kremlin symbolizes authority and control.
  • National Identity: It represents the continuity and history of Russia, evoking images of greatness and national pride.

Further reading:

The “KGB” Inscription

The KGB (Комитет государственной безопасности) was the main security service of the Soviet Union. Its presence on the watch’s dial can be interpreted in various ways:

  • Foundation of Power: The KGB is often seen as the guardian of the Soviet state, crucial for internal security and stability. Its depiction as the base of the elephants underscores its role as the foundation on which the nation rests.
  • Symbol of Control and Surveillance: It also represents the control and surveillance the KGB exercised over the population, maintaining the order and power of the government.

Further reading:

The Vision of the World on Turtles

The phrase “It’s turtles all the way down” refers to the infinite regression in cosmology. This metaphor comes from an ancient creation myth present in Indian, Chinese, and Native American mythologies. According to the myth, the world is a flat disc supported by a series of infinite turtles, one on top of the other. This vision was cited by Stephen Hawking to illustrate the concept of infinite regression in cosmological explanations.

Further reading:

Interpretation of the Combined Symbolism

When these symbols are combined, a complex picture is created that can be interpreted in several ways:

  • The KGB as the Foundation of Russia: The turtle of Hindu mythology is replaced by the KGB, suggesting that the power and stability of modern Russia (represented by the Kremlin) are supported by the foundations created by the KGB.
  • Power and Control: The elephants and the Kremlin above the KGB inscription can represent the immense power and control the KGB had and, by extension, how this control helped sustain the structure and stability of the Russian state.
  • Union of Opposites: Similar to the representation of yin and yang in Hindu cosmology, this watch could symbolize the union of opposites – power and stability (elephants and Kremlin) supported by hidden strength and KGB surveillance.

Further reading:

Final Reflections

This Raketa Zero KGB watch, with its symbol-rich dial, represents more than just a tool for measuring time. It is a cultural artifact that tells a story of power, control, and stability. Every detail of the dial is loaded with historical and cultural meanings, making this watch not only an object of curiosity but also a piece of dialogue about Russian history and politics.

Exploring these symbols offers an opportunity to reflect on how history and culture influence everyday objects and how these objects, in turn, can tell complex and fascinating stories.

Once again, I am amazed. An unexpected watch that has once again sparked my curiosity. A different and definitely unique Raketa Zero KGB!

Conclusion

Exploring these symbols offers an opportunity to reflect on how history and culture influence everyday objects and how these objects, in turn, can tell complex and fascinating stories. The Raketa Zero KGB is more than just a watch; it is a piece of history and culture that deserves to be understood and appreciated.

Vostok Komandirskie Apollo Soyuz: The Story of a Commemorative and Promotional Watch

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 0 Comment
russian watch Vostok Komandirskie Apollo Soyuz

One of the most sought-after watches by enthusiasts of Russian and Soviet space-themed timepieces is the Vostok Komandirskie Apollo Soyuz (Восток Командирские Союз Аполлон). This watch is a must-have for collectors, but it is not easy to find and often comes at a high price. After years of searching, I finally acquired two versions: one with a chrome case and another finished in Titanium Nitride (TiN).

russian watch Vostok Komandirskie Apollo Soyuz
Vostok Komandirskie Apollo Soyuz
russian watch Vostok Komandirskie Apollo Soyuz
Vostok Komandirskie Apollo Soyuz

The Mystery of the Watch

At first glance, many believe this watch commemorates the historic Apollo-Soyuz mission of 1975, where American astronauts and Soviet cosmonauts conducted a joint mission in space. The dial features the spacecraft docking, with the names “Soyuz” and “Apollo” in Cyrillic. However, the real story behind this watch is different.

The Advertising Twist

The Vostok Komandirskie Apollo Soyuz was produced as an advertising piece for Apollo-Soyuz cigarettes, a brand launched to commemorate the space mission. These cigarettes were produced by the Java Tobacco Factory in Moscow for the Soviet market and by Philip Morris for the U.S. market, with packaging tailored for each region.

For more details about the cigarette brand, visit Wikipedia and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.

The Unique Caseback

One of the most distinctive features of this watch is its caseback. Unlike standard Vostok Komandirskie models, it features unique engravings that highlight its exclusivity:

  • A five-pointed star
  • The word “эксклюзивный” (exclusive)
  • The word “выуск” (edition)
  • A six-digit serial number
  • Another five-pointed star

This marking signifies a special edition, though the exact number produced remains unclear.

The Dial Details

The black dial with its printed elements is the standout feature of this watch. Key characteristics include:

  • Minute and hour markers in white
  • Circular hour markers in white, except for red at 12, 6, and 9 o’clock
  • A date window at 3 o’clock
  • The spacecraft Soyuz and Apollo depicted in blue and white, with curved lines indicating their docking paths

The Hands and Movement

The watch hands are typical of Vostok Komandirskie models: steel with luminous paint for the hour and minute hands, and a red second hand. Inside, it houses the reliable Vostok 2414 mechanical movement.

The Apollo-Soyuz Mission

The Apollo-Soyuz Test Project (ASTP) marked the first international human spaceflight mission, paving the way for future cooperation in space. Launched in July 1975, the mission demonstrated the possibility of joint operations between the U.S. and USSR, despite Cold War tensions. For more details on the mission, visit the official NASA page.

Apollo-Soyuz Cigarettes

Apollo-Soyuz cigarettes were a commemorative brand of the 1975 space event. These cigarettes were sold both in the USA and the USSR, with the brand varying between “Apollo Soyuz” for the American market and “Союз Аполлон” for the Soviet market. This brand symbolized international cooperation in space and represented a unique element of the popular culture of that period.

Conclusion

The Vostok Komandirskie Apollo Soyuz is more than just a watch; it is a piece of history blending space exploration with a unique advertising campaign. Collectors cherish it for its story and the mystery surrounding its true origin.

For further reading and detailed images, visit the Apollo-Soyuz gallery on Wikipedia and an in-depth article on the history of the cigarettes on Artefact.

Missile Troops and Artillery: The Meaning Behind the Vostok Komandirskie Dial

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russian watch Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops

Missile Troops and Artillery: here is the true meaning of this dial revealed. It’s a widely distributed Vostok Komandirskie, and often people wonder about the hidden meanings behind such a cryptic dial. Careful research is required to uncover the exact significance of the various symbols on the dial.

Discovering the Watch

I found this watch for a few euros in a lot, and it immediately intrigued me. I had seen it many times, but never so peculiar or beautiful to justify a single purchase. After a bit of investigation, curiosity took over, and I sought to find out what it was exactly about.

The Watch

The watch, upon closer inspection, is quite standard. It’s a Russian Vostok Komandirskie with a 2414 movement and a 439xxx case. Both the glass and the case are unfortunately quite damaged, but the watch is still functional, indicating that the reliable Vostok 2414 works well even under harsh conditions.

russian watch Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops
Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops

Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops: Where Are the Missile Troops and Artillery?

Everything is grouped in the emblem found at the six o’clock position on the dial. What is it about?

The image consists of three elements:

  1. A laurel wreath
  2. Two cannons
  3. A missile

Uncovering the Meaning

After some research and the help of a Dutch collector friend, I found a military patch online that clarified the meaning. The writing: ракетные войска и артиллерия on the patch means “Missile Troops and Artillery.” This is therefore a commemorative Vostok of these armed forces, which are part of the Vooružënnye Sily Rossijskoj Federacii, or the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.

A curiosity: on November 19, Russia celebrates the “Day of the Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Federation.” Here is a video about it:

Missile Troops and Artillery: Who Are They?

For those interested, here is the link to the Russian Wikipedia page: LINK.

Interesting information I found includes the existence of:

  • Missile Troops and Artillery of the ground forces of the Russian armed forces
  • Missile Troops and Artillery of the coastal forces of the Russian armed forces

Tasks of the Missile Troops and Artillery

The missile troops and artillery are tasked with:

  • Achieving and maintaining fire superiority over the enemy
  • Destroying enemy nuclear attack means, personnel, weapons, military, and special equipment
  • Disorganizing enemy troop and weapon command and control systems, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare
  • Destroying long-term defensive structures and other infrastructure
  • Disrupting enemy operational and military rear
  • Weakening and isolating the enemy’s second echelons and reserves
  • Destroying tanks and other armored vehicles penetrating the enemy’s depth
  • Covering flanks and open joints
  • Participating in the destruction of enemy airborne and amphibious assault forces
  • Remote mining of areas and objects
  • Supporting night operations of troops
  • Smoking and blinding enemy objects
  • Distributing propaganda materials and others

Conclusion

It is easy to see how even a simple Vostok Komandirskie can intrigue and lead 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.

Discovering the Charm of Soviet and Russian Watch Collections

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 0 Comment
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.

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.

Vostok Komandirskie Export Italy Aviation Badge

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soviet watch Vostok Komandirskie Soviet Air Force Emblem

Today, I want to talk about a watch that has been in my collection for some time: a Vostok Komandirskie made for the Italian market in the 1980s, featuring an interesting badge on the dial.

This model is part of a series of watches with the Komandirskie 341XXX case, calibre 2414A, bakelite bezel, and a dial with a clean, well-made design that references the military world. The badge on the dial mimics those used on the hats of high-ranking Soviet Air Force officers.

soviet watch Vostok Komandirskie Soviet Air Force Emblem
Vostok Komandirskie Soviet Air Force Emblem

Dial Detail

This badge, in particular, is a distinctive symbol worn by high-ranking pilot officers. Below, you can see an example of these badges in a vintage photograph of a Soviet military pilot in uniform.

Distribution and Marking

The watch, made for the Italian market in the 1980s and marked CCCP, was distributed in Italy by Time Trend. Although not difficult to find, it is considered an essential piece in a collection of Soviet watches.

Conclusion

The dial of this Russian watch features a reproduction of the badges used on the hats of high-ranking pilot officers, making it a fascinating piece rich in history.

In the Vostok section of my site, you can find the complete series of commemorative Soviet watches intended for the Italian market.