Detailed Guide on How to Change a Leather Watch Strap

Strumenti necessari per cambiare il cinturino di un orologio

Introduction: This guide will show you how to effectively change your watch’s leather strap, providing practical advice and step-by-step instructions.


Step 1: Prepare the Necessary Tools

Gather the necessary tools: a small screwdriver, a spring bar tool, and the new leather strap.


Step 2: Remove the Existing Strap

Using the screwdriver or spring bar tool, remove the spring bars that hold the current strap to the watch. Remove the old strap and set it aside.


Step 3: Prepare the New Strap

Ensure the new strap is compatible with the watch in terms of width and lug attachment. Make sure you have the corresponding spring bars ready for installation.


Step 4: Install the New Strap

Insert the spring bars into the ends of the new strap. Align the spring bars with the lugs on the watch and push them into place using the spring bar tool or screwdriver. Ensure the spring bars are securely inserted to prevent the strap from coming off accidentally.


Step 5: Adjustment and Finishing

Wear the watch with the new strap to check its fit and comfort.


Conclusion: Replacing a leather watch strap is a relatively simple task you can do yourself by following the steps above. Follow the instructions carefully and enjoy the new strap that will give your watch a fresh and renewed look. Always remember to buy a strap compatible with your watch to ensure proper installation.

Orologi da Polso 1989: Italian Watch Magazine and the Soviet Wristwatch Boom

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I recently recovered a copy of “Orologi da Polso” Year III no. 9 (March–April 1989, Edizioni Studio Zeta, Monza), an influential Italian magazine dedicated to horology during the late-1980s Soviet watch boom.
Inside, you’ll find an insightful article by Arturo Chiti, full of details about Soviet watchmaking, Italy’s first Russian watch importers, and a unique perspective on the Italian watch scene during the era of Gorbachev.
Below is the original article in Italian, followed by an English translation, to preserve and share this important piece of watch history with an international audience.

Testo originale – Italiano

Anche se il Congresso sovietico del ’25 proclamava per l’URSS l’obiettivo dell’autosufficienza economica, la trasformazione da paese importatore di macchine e attrezzature a paese che voleva produrre in proprio, sino a qualche anno fa sarebbe stato impensabile che un orologio sovietico diventasse non solo di moda, ma quasi fenomeno di costume.

Pure la storia dell’orologeria russa ha antenati illustri. Gli orologi da torre del Cremlino furono costruiti agli inizi del Quattrocento da Lazar Serbin, mentre per i carillon della torre del Salvatore, restaurati nel secolo scorso, lo Zar si rivolse a due fratelli russi, gli orologiai Butenop. E ancora sotto uno Zar, Pietro il Grande, che aveva chiamato famosi artigiani francesi, si sviluppò una scuola di orologeria, anche se i francesi sembra avessero maggiori privilegi degli artigiani locali. Preziosi orologi di Ivan Kulihin, che visse nel ‘700, sono all’Hermitage di Leningrado e musei moscoviti e di altre città hanno sezioni dedicate all’orologeria. Nello scorso autunno ci fu un’esposizione a Firenze di alcuni splendidi pezzi delle collezioni dei Romanoff e sfogliando antichi libri si apprende che nella storia dell’orologio russo la famiglia dei Bronnikov era famosa per i suoi orologi in legno (filie molle erano in metallo) e che rivestirono un ruolo importante per i miglioramenti apportati alla meccanica, gli orologiai Tolstoj e Nosov.

Prima della rivoluzione si importavano parti e meccanismi dalla Svizzera provvedendo poi al loro assemblaggio. A cavallo del secolo la Francia fece diversi investimenti nei domini dello Zar e dopo la prima Guerra mondiale, per recuperare parte dei capitali, pretese che l’Italia acquistasse orologi russi da tasca che furono poi dati in dotazione al personale delle Ferrovie.

«Le prime industrie sovietiche di orologi risalgono solo agli anni Trenta» dice Jacopo Marchi, P.R. dell’Artime, che è andato a Mosca nello scorso dicembre dopo che l’azienda napoletana aveva sottoscritto un accordo di collaborazione con la Boctok (ma si legge Vostok). Dal viaggio in Russia Marchi ha riportato molte notizie, tanto che per il lancio dei «Komandirskie» ha realizzato per Time Trend, distributore del prodotto, un tabloide sulla storia dell’Armata rossa e dei suoi orologi.

Due industrie (una di orologi preziosi e l’altra di orologi con casse di legno) vennero convertite in aziende belliche negli anni ’40, per tornare poi alle funzioni originali. L’industria principale di Mosca diede vita nel ’42 alla Boctok, una delle più importanti e tra le poche di cui per le strade moscovite si possono vedere cartelloni pubblicitari. Dopo la fine della guerra altre industrie furono aperte a Serdobsk, Yerevan, Petrodvoretes e Uglich. Venne creato un istituto per la ricerca e il design nelle lavorazioni meccaniche. Nel 1962 furono anche prodotti i primi orologi a diapason.

Oggi in URSS operano oltre quindici fabbriche di orologi, molte delle quali specializzate in produzioni particolari. Tra le più note ricordiamo Chaika, Poljot, Zaria, Paketa, Slava e Penza, quest’ultima destinata alla produzione di orologi da polso femminili. Il quantitativo di orologi prodotti è imponente. Intorno agli anni Cinquanta iniziò anche l’esportazione destinata per lo più a nazioni aderenti al patto di Varsavia. Erano orologi di buon livello con prezzi politicamente differenziati. È di quegli anni il Mark che pubblichiamo e il cui quadrante è simile a quello del Poljot. È un orologio con una storia romantica. Fu donato a un nostro collega, allora bambino, da una signora italiana che aveva sposato un russo che, per le leggi staliniane, non poteva venire a vivere in Italia e i due erano costretti così a vedersi di tanto in tanto solo come turisti.

La prima importazione di orologi russi in Italia è stata fatta da Orazio Occhipinti della Mirabilia di Milano che nella seconda metà del 1988 ha iniziato sul territorio nazionale la distribuzione dei Paketa fabbricati a Pietrogrado. Paketa in russo significa «razzo» e si legge «raketa», La bontà dell’idea, complice anche l’apertura generale verso Gorbaciov, è stata ampiamente confermata dalla vera e propria corsa all’orologio russo che si è scatenata in seguito. Vien da pensare a questo proposito che solo pochi anni or sono un dirigente di una grande azienda europea, dopo un viaggio in Unione Sovietica durante il quale era rimasto colpito dagli orologi, ne propose l’importazione ma si sentì chiedere dai suoi se aveva voglía di scherzare. Dunque i primi russi che hanno rotto il ghiaccio sul nostro mercato sono stati i Paketa. Oggi sono disponibili nove versioni che si differenziano sia per il design del quadrante per le funzioni. Sono meccanici a carica manuale e cassa antishock. Alla fiera di Vicenza Mirabilia ha presentato anche i Poljot prodotti a Leningrado, un cronografo e uno svegliarino, a carica manuale, proposti in quattro versioni. Gli orologi dell’Armata rossa, i Boctok, sono disponibili in cinque modelli con quadranti realizzati per le specializzazioni dell’esercito al quale sono destinati. Sono orologi meccanici a carica manuale, impermeabili a 10 atmosfere, hanno la ghiera girevole con indici e lancette fosforescenti.

Ci sono poi orologi con meccanismo di fabbricazione russa e cassa e quadrante costruiti in Italia per accostare un «cuore» russo al design italiano, come il Soviet, disponibile in vari colori di cassa e quadrante. È un orologio quarzo impermeabile a 3 atm. E ancora i sei modelli della collezione Perestrojka (quattro al quarzo e due cronografi meccanici) che la Elmitex ha presentato sia a Vicenza sia a Mosca come un prodotto «italorusso».

Il sesto orologio con la stella rossa è quello proposto dalla I. Binda S.p.A. Il marchio BREMA, con la A che è una R rovesciata, si legge Vremia e significa Tempo. Sono orologi meccanici disponibili in tre modelli (normale, con suoneria e un cronografo) proposti in 17 versioni. I quadranti sono di ispirazione anni ’30 seguendo la tendenza culturale in voga in Russia e battezzata «strutturalista».


Full English Translation

Even though the 1925 Soviet Congress declared the USSR’s goal of economic self-sufficiency, turning the country from an importer of machinery and equipment into a producer, until just a few years ago it would have been unthinkable for a Soviet wristwatch to become not only fashionable, but a genuine social phenomenon.

Russian watchmaking, however, has illustrious origins. The Kremlin’s tower clocks were built in the early 15th century by Lazar Serbin, and when the chimes of the Saviour Tower were restored last century, the Tsar turned to two Russian brothers, the Butenops, who were master clockmakers. Under Peter the Great, who invited famous French craftsmen to Russia, a Russian watchmaking school developed—even if the French apparently enjoyed more privileges than the local artisans. Precious watches by Ivan Kulikhin, who lived in the 18th century, can be found at the Hermitage in Leningrad, and museums in Moscow and other cities have sections devoted to horology. Last autumn, a Florence exhibition featured stunning pieces from the Romanoff collections. Old books reveal that the Bronnikov family was famous for its wooden watches (with metal gears), and that watchmakers like Tolstoy and Nosov played a key role in technical improvements.

Before the Revolution, parts and movements were imported from Switzerland and assembled locally. At the turn of the century, France invested in the Tsar’s domains, and after the First World War—seeking to recover capital—demanded that Italy purchase Russian pocket watches, which were later issued to Italian railway workers.

“The first Soviet watch factories date only to the 1930s,” says Jacopo Marchi, PR manager for Artime, who travelled to Moscow last December after the Neapolitan company signed a collaboration agreement with Boctok (pronounced Vostok). Marchi brought back a wealth of information, so much so that for the launch of the ‘Komandirskie’ he produced a special magazine on the Red Army and its watches for Time Trend, the product’s Italian distributor.

Two factories—one producing luxury watches, the other making wooden-cased watches—were converted to wartime production in the 1940s, only to return to their original functions later. Moscow’s main factory gave rise in 1942 to Boctok, one of the most important Soviet brands, and among the few to have billboards in Moscow’s streets. After the war, new factories opened in Serdobsk, Yerevan, Petrodvorets and Uglich. An institute for mechanical research and design was founded. In 1962, the first Soviet tuning fork (diapason) watches were made.

Today, more than fifteen watch factories operate in the USSR, many specialising in particular types of production. The best known include Chaika, Poljot, Zaria, Paketa, Slava and Penza, the latter focusing on women’s wristwatches. The number of watches produced is enormous. From the 1950s, Soviet watches were exported mainly to other Warsaw Pact nations—well-made pieces, with politically adjusted pricing. One such watch, the Mark (with a dial similar to the Poljot) is featured here. It has a romantic history: it was given to a colleague, then a child, by an Italian woman who had married a Russian. Under Stalinist law, he was not allowed to live in Italy, so the couple could only meet occasionally as tourists.

The first import of Russian watches to Italy was by Orazio Occhipinti of Mirabilia (Milan), who began national distribution of Paketa watches from Petrograd in the second half of 1988. Paketa in Russian means “rocket” and is pronounced “Raketa.” The idea’s success—helped by the general mood of openness under Gorbachev—was clear from the sudden rush for Russian watches that followed. Interestingly, only a few years earlier, an executive at a major European firm, after visiting the USSR and being struck by the watches, suggested importing them—only to be asked if he was joking. So, Paketa were the first to break the ice in our market. Today, there are nine available versions, differing in dial design and function. They are manual-wind mechanicals with anti-shock cases. At the Vicenza fair, Mirabilia also presented Poljot watches made in Leningrad—a chronograph and an alarm watch, both manual-wind, offered in four versions. Red Army watches—Boctok—come in five models, each with dials themed for army specialisations. These are manual-wind mechanical watches, water resistant to 10 atmospheres, with rotating bezels and luminous hands and markers.

There are also watches with Russian-made movements, but Italian cases and dials, to combine a Russian “heart” with Italian design—such as the Soviet, available in a range of case and dial colours. This is a quartz watch, water resistant to 3 atm. Then there are six models in the Perestrojka collection (four quartz, two mechanical chronographs) presented by Elmitex at both Vicenza and Moscow as an “Italo-Russian” product.

The sixth red-star watch is offered by I. Binda S.p.A. The BREMA brand—with a reversed R for the “A”—is read as Vremia, meaning Time. These are mechanical watches available in three models (standard, alarm, and chronograph) with 17 dial versions. The dials are inspired by the 1930s, in keeping with a cultural trend currently popular in Russia, known as “structuralist.”

Conclusion


This rare 1989 issue of Orologi da Polso is a true time capsule for any vintage or Soviet watch collector. The article not only chronicles the arrival of Russian watches in Italy but also captures the atmosphere, tastes, and market dynamics of the era. Whether you’re passionate about Vostok, Raketa, Poljot, or the unique East-West collaborations, this publication is a valuable reference and a fascinating read for enthusiasts everywhere.
If you have memories or stories related to Orologi da Polso or the Russian watch craze in Italy, share them below or get in touc

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Vostok Komandirskie: Analysis of the Watch and History of Military Unit 3375

Vostok Komandirskie 45 anni unità militare 3375 di protezione MPSR, VGO e SG

The Vostok Komandirskie watch in question is a commemorative model celebrating the 45th anniversary of Military Unit 3375, featuring a chrome-plated case and a 2414A caliber. This particular watch caught attention for three main reasons:

Vostok Komandirskie 45 anni unità militare 3375 di protezione MPSR, VGO e SG
Vostok Komandirskie 45 anni unità militare 3375 di protezione MPSR, VGO e SG

The Holographic Blue Dial

Not commonly found in Vostok watches, the holographic blue dial is more prevalent in some models of Russian Raketa watches. This dial, typical of the early ’90s, represents a curious and characteristic element, albeit of dubious aesthetic taste.

The Case Shape

The case shape is also uncommon, unlike the bezel, which is rather common in Vostok models.

The Cyrillic Inscriptions

Initially hard to understand, the Cyrillic inscriptions reveal a fascinating and complex history.

Dial Details

Upper Part of the Dial: The Cyrillic inscription “ПО ОХРАНЕ МПСР ВГО И СГ” translates to: “REGARDING THE PROTECTION OF MPSR, VGO, AND SG”.

  • MPSR (МПСР): “Special work sites”
  • VGO (ВГО): “Important state structures”
  • SG (СГ): “Special goods”

Symbols and Iconography

  • Missile: Symbol of technological and military development.
  • Atom Symbol: Indicative of nuclear energy.
  • Polar Bear: An animal found in the northern hemisphere, suggesting activity in Siberia. This symbol is commonly used on Russian watch dials. For further examples, you can see HERE.

Lower Part of the Dial

The inscription “ВОИСКВАЯ ЧАСТЬ 3375” means: “MILITARY UNIT 3375”. This watch commemorates the 45th anniversary of the military unit, dating it to 1991.

Historical Context

Military Unit 3375 was created in April 1946 as part of the Department for the Protection of Important Industrial Enterprises, tasked with protecting research institutes and laboratories of the Academy of Sciences engaged in nuclear energy development. This post-war period was characterized by intense espionage and secret research for the development of nuclear weapons, necessitating the creation of special units to protect installations and goods.

Additional References

On VK you can find several references to Military Unit 3375, including a community with 180 members still active. These special units were also among the first responders during the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, along with firefighters.

Sources and Useful Links

  • Topwar: Main source of information about the military unit and its history.

This analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the Vostok Komandirskie, highlighting the historical significance of Military Unit 3375 and the context in which it operated, while also offering a detailed description of the watch’s distinctive features.

The Mystery of the Tank on the Dial of the Vostok Komandirskie Watch

soviet watch Vostok Komandirskie Tank

The Vostok Komandirskie Tank watch is one of the most iconic and widespread Russian watches. With its robust military design, it has captivated collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. A particularly intriguing detail on the dial is the stylised tank, which has led to much speculation: which specific tank model is depicted?

Features of the Vostok Komandirskie

Produced by the Chistopol Watch Factory, the Vostok Komandirskie is synonymous with quality and durability. It is known for being designed to withstand extreme conditions, and its design reflects Soviet military pride.

soviet watch Vostok Komandirskie Tank
Vostok Komandirskie Tank

Which Tank is Depicted?

T-34/85: This is one of the most famous tanks of World War II. Celebrated for its battlefield effectiveness, the T-34/85 is often considered a symbol of Soviet military might. Its distinctive shape and crucial role in the war make this model a probable candidate for the stylisation on the dial.

T-62: Another suggested model by experts is the T-62. This tank represents a technological evolution compared to its predecessors and has stylistic features that might correspond to the stylisation on the watch.

IS-2: The heavy tank IS-2, known for its powerful cannon and thick armour, played a significant role during World War II. This model has also been considered as a possible inspiration.

Notes on the Film T-34

The 2019 Russian film “T-34” offers an exciting and gripping look at this legendary tank. Set during World War II, the film follows a young Soviet tank commander, played by Alexander Petrov, who is captured by the Germans. Using a T-34, he orchestrates a daring escape. The plot highlights the ingenuity and bravery of Soviet soldiers, paying homage to the T-34 as a symbol of resistance and victory. This cinematic representation has rekindled interest in the tank and might reinforce the hypothesis that the model depicted on the Vostok Komandirskie dial is indeed the T-34/85. T-34 (film) – Wikipedia

Discussions and Sources

Discussions on which tank is depicted continue on various forums and specialised sites. For instance, Wikipedia and meshok.net offer insights and speculations on the matter. Additionally, enthusiast groups on platforms like VK and forums dedicated to Soviet watches provide further suggestions and theories.

Conclusions

Precisely identifying the tank model depicted on the Vostok Komandirskie Tank watch dial remains a mystery, but the most credible hypotheses are the T-34/85 and the T-62. The stylisation makes a definitive confirmation difficult, but these two hypotheses remain the most probable.

For more details and discussions, I recommend visiting the links to the sources and forums mentioned above, where the enthusiast community continues to share information and opinions on this fascinating historical detail.

Raketa Marine Navy 24h, the mystery unveiled…

russian watch Raketa 24h Marine
russian watch Raketa 24h Marine
Raketa 24h Marine

The Raketa Marine: A Classic Russian Watch with Hidden Secrets

The Raketa Marine is a beloved classic among Russian watches, known for its subtle intricacies. Produced during both the Soviet and Russian eras, this watch is highly sought after by collectors. Often regarded as a “must-have” for anyone looking to start or complete a watch collection, the Raketa Marine is not only aesthetically pleasing but also boasts several unique functions.

1. The 24-Hour Format

One of the key features of the Raketa Marine is its 24-hour format. Powered by the Raketa calibre 2623.H, a 26mm diameter manual winding movement with antishock protection, this watch stands out in the realm of Russian timepieces. Unlike conventional 12-hour watches, the hour hand of the Raketa Marine completes one full rotation every 24 hours. This results in a distinctive gap between the hour and minute indices, which we’ll explore further. Despite variations across Soviet, Russian, and GOST-branded versions, the Raketa Marine remains clear and easy to read.

Raketa Marine 24h explanation
Raketa Marine 24h
Raketa Marine 24h rotation of the guards
Raketa Marine 24h rotation of the guards

2. Tracking Watch Duty

Another notable feature of the Raketa Marine is its rotating inner ring, adjustable using a crown located at the 8 o’clock position. This ring is designed to help track watch shifts, which in naval terms consist of 4 hours on duty followed by 4 hours off. The cycles are represented on the ring, allowing for easy adjustment to mark the start of a shift. A curious aspect is the color coding: one of the four-hour shifts is marked in red, while the others are in blue. Although this might simply highlight the first shift, the precise nature of Russian design suggests there could be a deeper meaning. There’s also speculation online about dashed lines on the dial representing shower times for sailors, but this remains unconfirmed.

3. Understanding Radio Silence

The most intriguing mystery of the Raketa Marine involves the blue lines on the dial between 6:00-7:00 and 18:00-19:00. These markings, which don’t immediately reveal their purpose, hold a significant function related to maritime operations. By closely examining the watch, it becomes evident that the blue lines align with minute indices rather than hour indices. This observation, coupled with research, points to a well-known naval practice called “radio silence periods.”

raketa marine radio room mistery gif

What is Radio Silence?

Radio silence is a crucial practice wherein radio operators cease transmissions to listen for distress signals. Specifically, this occurs for three minutes every half-hour, at 15-17 and 45-47 minutes past the hour. This period allows operators to pick up any SOS signals from ships in danger, particularly on the 500 kHz frequency. There’s also a separate listening period for MAYDAY messages on a different frequency. For a detailed explanation, you can refer to the page on RADIO SILENCE.


RADIO ROOM WATCHES IN ADDITION TO RAKETA MARINE

On the net, there are many examples and two often used are of famous Soviet clocks and watches:

The 500 kHz frequency

Due to the legibility issues on the watch dial, only the period related to the 500 kHz telegraph transmissions was highlighted. Listening on medium waves at 500 kHz fell out of use in 1999 after about 90 years, replaced by more modern and reliable systems. However, at the time the Raketa Marine was designed, this practice was still in effect.

Further Reading

For those interested, HERE are insights in Italian about the use of this frequency. This explanation should clarify the purpose of the small blue lines on the dial of the Raketa Marine.

Interestingly, many “Radio Room Clocks” also highlight only this band. They likely date from before the introduction of the full system with the four-time bands. Here is a historical example.


Last articles

Simple Guide to Soviet and Russian Watch Movements

Vostok 2416b Rannft (C)

How to Recognize Soviet and Russian Movements?

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 Vostok 2609A
Passaporto sovietico Molnija 3602
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.

Other useful resources include:

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.

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

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.

Discovering the Charm of Soviet and Russian Watch Collections

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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.

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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.