Raketa 24h watches are a type of mechanical watch produced by the Raketa factory in St. Petersburg, Russia. These watches are characterized by a 24-hour dial instead of the usual 12-hour dial.
Raketa 24h Marine
How the hour hand works
The hour hand on a Raketa 24h watch is the longest hand and is located in the center of the dial. The hour hand completes one full rotation in 24 hours, from midnight to midnight.
To read the time on a Raketa 24h watch, you need to identify the index on the dial that corresponds to the position of the hour hand. The index indicates the time of day.
For example, if the hour hand is at the 12 o’clock index, it is midnight. If the hour hand is at the 6 o’clock index, it is 6:00 am. If the hour hand is at the 18 o’clock index, it is 6:00 pm.
Raketa 24h Zestril
How the minute hand works
The minute hand on a Raketa 24h watch is the shortest hand and is located in the center of the dial, next to the hour hand. The minute hand completes one full rotation in 60 minutes.
To read the minutes on a Raketa 24h watch, you need to identify the number on the dial that corresponds to the position of the minute hand. The number indicates the minutes of the day.
For example, if the minute hand is at the 12 o’clock index, it is 00:00. If the minute hand is at the 6 o’clock index, it is 00:30. If the minute hand is at the 18 o’clock index, it is 06:00.
Soviet and Russian Raketa 24h watches
Raketa 24h watches were often used in closed environments or above the Arctic Circle, when it is not possible to accurately determine the time of day by observing the sun.
In fact, above the Arctic Circle, the sun never sets during the summer and never rises during the winter. In these cases, a Raketa 24h watch is the only way to know the correct time.
The Vostok Cosmopolis is one of the most sought-after and mysterious watches from the Soviet Vostok brand. Often linked to the Baikonur Cosmodrome, this watch has captivated collectors and enthusiasts with its unique design and potential connections to space and philosophy. Here, we explore the various theories surrounding this model and present a new hypothesis that could finally explain the significance of the Vostok Cosmopolis.
Characteristics of the Vostok Cosmopolis
The Vostok Cosmopolis is an Amphibia model with a round case, featuring the classic Amphibia hands: the hour hand shaped like an arrow, the linear minute hand, and the red second hand with a luminous dot. The bidirectional rotating bezel has the typical luminescent dot. The dial showcases a large eye, coloured blue and red, set against a green striped rectangle. Above and below the rectangle, the inscriptions “КОСМОПОЛИС” and “COSMOPOLIS” in Cyrillic and Latin, respectively, give the watch its distinctive name.
Current Theories
1. The Baikonur Cosmodrome
The simplest theory links the Vostok Cosmopolis to the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. According to this hypothesis, the eye symbolises a look towards the future and space exploration. However, this theory remains weak as, during the Soviet era, references to space ventures would have been more explicit.
2. Space Cities
Another theory discussed on the Watchuseek forum in 2006 suggests that the watch represents a space city. This idea also ties back to the Baikonur Cosmodrome but lacks substantial evidence.
3. Cosmism
On the Italian forum Orologiko, a user proposed the theory of “Cosmism,” a Russian philosophical movement viewing matter as dynamic and living. According to this view, the eye on the dial represents the concept of a living cosmos, supported by historical figures like Konstantin Tsiolkovsky, the father of Russian astronautics.
4. Hylozoism
Another hypothesis on the Orologiko forum links the cosmic eye to hylozoism, a philosophical doctrine considering matter to have life. The eye could represent God, with the cosmos as its living manifestation.
The New Theory: Cosmopolis Publishing House
A new hypothesis has emerged through recent research. A user on VK, “Boshdan Boshomolov,” suggested that the logo on the dial might belong to the “Cosmopolis” publishing house, active around 1990-1991. This Soviet-American joint venture, based in Moscow, published several books, including “Commercial Banks” by E. Reed and others.
Research Details
The “Cosmopolis” publishing house was known for publishing science fiction and other literary works with futuristic and philosophical themes. The publisher’s logo, resembling the eye on the watch’s dial, suggests a visual connection between the watch and the publishing house.
cosmopolis casa editrice
Conclusions
While absolute certainty is elusive, the theory that the Vostok Cosmopolis is a commemorative watch for the Cosmopolis publishing house is the most plausible. The dial design, featuring the eye and the Cyrillic and Latin inscriptions, reflects the Soviet-American nature of the publisher. The presence of the “Made in USSR” inscription and the early 1990s dating further support this hypothesis.
For more details, you can visit the following links:
The Vostok Cosmopolis remains one of the most enigmatic and fascinating watches in the Soviet Vostok production, a piece of history embodying the mystery and innovation of its time.
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.
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.
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
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.”
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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