collezionismo

Soviet CCCP Watch: The History of SOVIET Watches from the ’90s

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi, Orologi Sovietici , , , , , , , , , , , 0 Comment
Soviet CCCCP watch

In the 1990s, the Soviet CCCP watch gained significant popularity, especially in Italy, due to its unique design and nostalgic connection to the Soviet era. These watches, although not directly produced in the USSR, utilised high-quality Russian movements and featured an aesthetic that strongly evoked the Soviet period.

Soviet CCCCP watch
Soviet CCCCP

Production and Movements of the Soviet CCCP Watch

SOVIET watches were known for using a variety of mechanical and quartz movements produced by major Soviet factories. Among these, the Vostok 2414 and 2409 movements were particularly appreciated for their robustness and reliability. Additionally, Poljot calibres and Soviet quartz movements were also used. It is likely that the producers of the watch managed to purchase batches of movements from struggling ex-Soviet factories, ensuring high build quality​

Some SOVIET watches also mimicked the crown closure design of Zlatoust watches, characterised by a screw-down cap that protected the actual crown. This design not only added a distinctive element but also increased crown protection, making the watch more resistant to external elements​

Design and Features of the Soviet CCCP Watch

The design of the watch was heavily influenced by Soviet symbols and aesthetics. Many of these watches featured a red star on the dial, accompanied by the inscription “CCCP,” which stands for “Union of Soviet Socialist Republics” in Cyrillic. These design elements not only evoked the collective imagery of the era but also offered a sense of authenticity and nostalgia for the wearer. Each watch was a tribute to the glorious past of the Soviet Union​

Distribution and Popularity of the Soviet CCCP Watch in Italy

During the 1990s, the watch was particularly popular in Italy. It was imported and distributed through specialised watch shops and vintage item retailers. Its popularity was due to the combination of a distinctive design and an affordable price, making it attractive to both collectors and vintage watch enthusiasts. Additionally, the allure of Soviet design, combined with the quality of the mechanical movements, made these watches particularly desirable​

Production Hypotheses of the Soviet CCCP Watch

Despite the lack of detailed official documentation, there are several hypotheses about the production of the Soviet CCCP watch:

  • External Assembly: It is possible that the Russian movements and components were assembled in facilities outside Russia, leveraging available resources and infrastructure in other countries to reduce costs and circumvent the economic difficulties of the post-Soviet period.
  • Foreign Market: Another hypothesis is that the SOVIET brand was created specifically for foreign markets, such as Italy, exploiting the appeal of Soviet design to attract collectors and nostalgics without having to compete directly with established Russian watch brands​

Conclusion on the Soviet CCCP Watch

The Soviet CCCP watch represents a fascinating chapter in the history of 1990s horology. With its Soviet-era inspired design and use of high-quality movements, this watch continues to be appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. Although its production has ended, its charm persists, offering a piece of history and nostalgia to anyone who wears it.

For more information on the Soviet CCCP watch and other vintage Russian watches, we recommend exploring collector forums and historical archives online.

Sources:

Raketa Sosnovy Bor Watch: A Commemorative Timepiece Telling a Story of Energy and Culture

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi , , , , , , , , , , , 0 Comment
russian watch Raketa Sosnovy Bor

Introduction

The Raketa Sosnovy Bor watch is a unique and fascinating piece that celebrates the twenty-year anniversary of the Sosnovy Bor nuclear power plant. This watch, produced in 1993, incorporates cultural and local symbols, making it an item of not only historical value but also great aesthetic and cultural significance. The three concentric stripes on the edges of the dial, representing the colours of the Russian flag (white, blue, and red), clearly indicate that this watch was created in the post-Soviet period, reflecting the new national identity of Russia.

Description of the Dial

The dial of the Raketa Sosnovy Bor watch is rich in symbols that tell the story of the nuclear power plant and the city of Sosnovy Bor.

  • Yellow Part: This represents a characteristic structure of Andersengrad, a theme park located in the city of Sosnovy Bor. Andersengrad is inspired by the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen and features a castle with a clock, a copper roof made of red bricks, and a weather vane. The roof decoration, with the stylised sun and the stripes radiating to the right, is clearly visible on the watch dial.
  • Blue Industrial Building: This represents the nuclear power plant itself, a symbol of progress and technology.
  • Green Elements: These represent trees, highlighting the connection with nature and ecology. The city of Sosnovy Bor is indeed rich in forests, covering an area of about 7.3 km². These green elements indicate a balance between energy production and environmental preservation.

This watch is highly sought after by collectors for its unique design and the historical and cultural significance it carries.

russian watch Raketa Sosnovy Bor
Raketa Sosnovy Bor

The Sosnovy Bor Nuclear Power Plant

History and Construction

The Sosnovy Bor nuclear power plant, also known as the Leningrad Nuclear Power Plant (LNPP), is located in the Leningrad region, Russia. The city of Sosnovy Bor was founded in 1958 specifically to support the construction and operation of the nuclear power plant. The construction of the plant began in 1967, and the first unit was launched in 1973. This plant was one of the first in Russia to use RBMK-1000 reactors, the same type used at the Chernobyl plant.

Events and Incidents
  • 1973: The first unit of the Sosnovy Bor nuclear power plant begins producing energy.
  • 1975, 1979, 1981: Three more units come online, making LNPP one of the largest nuclear power plants in the world.
  • 1990: During refurbishment works of Unit 1, an increase in radiation is detected due to the leakage of contaminated graphite.
  • 1991: An accident due to faulty equipment and non-compliance with safety rules causes ten fuel rods to break.
  • 1992: Another incident results in the release of radioactive gases and iodine into the air.
  • 2009: A unit is stopped due to a hole in a pump discharge header.
  • 2015: The first unit of the plant is shut down for decommissioning.
Modernisation and Replacement

Over the years, the plant has undergone numerous modernisation works to improve safety and efficiency. In 2008, construction of the Leningrad Nuclear Power Plant-2 (LNPP-2) began, using new-generation VVER-1200 reactors. These reactors are designed to replace the old RBMK-1000 units, with greater efficiency and higher safety standards.

Andersengrad: A Fairy Tale Piece of Local Culture

Andersengrad is a theme park located in Sosnovy Bor, inspired by the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen. It is a magical place for children, characterised by fairy-tale architectural structures, including castles and towers. The castle with the clock and the copper roof is one of the main attractions of the park, decorated with stylised elements such as weather vanes. This detail has been integrated into the design of the Raketa Sosnovy Bor watch dial, emphasising the connection between local culture and the industrial history of the city.

Torre con orologio in un ambiente pittoresco, con decorazioni luminose. Proprietà di JEANYWITCH.
Torre con orologio in un ambiente pittoresco, con decorazioni luminose. Immagine di proprietà di JEANYWITCH. Fonte: ne-kurim.ru.

Conclusion

The Raketa Sosnovy Bor watch is much more than just a timepiece. It is a piece of history that celebrates the Sosnovy Bor nuclear power plant and integrates local cultural symbols such as Andersengrad. This watch represents a perfect balance between technological progress and respect for culture and the environment, making it a valuable item for collectors and history enthusiasts. Its production in 1993 and the use of the Russian flag colours place it in a period of national renewal, reflecting the new identity of post-Soviet Russia.

Soviet Zaria Watch: A Symbol of the 1990 Goodwill Games

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Orologio Zaria dei Goodwill Games del 1990 con logo di cooperazione USA-URSS

Introduction

In the realm of Soviet watchmaking, the Zaria watch from the 1990 Goodwill Games stands out as an intriguing piece of historical memorabilia. Produced by the Zaria brand, this watch features a 21-jewel, manually wound 2009b calibre. Although an economical model, its design and the historical context in which it was made make it noteworthy for enthusiasts of Soviet horology.

Orologio Zaria dei Goodwill Games del 1990 con logo di cooperazione USA-URSS
Orologio Zaria commemorativo dei Goodwill Games del 1990 a Seattle, simbolo di amicizia USA-URSS.

Technical Specifications

The Zaria Goodwill Games 1990 watch uses a manually wound mechanical movement, identified as the 2009b calibre, with 21 jewels. This type of movement was common in watches from that era. The watch case is made of coated brass, a material often used for budget watches, providing basic protection for the internal mechanism. The technical specifics of the 2009 calibre include an oscillation frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (vph) and a power reserve of approximately 42 hours. This movement is simple and functional but not particularly known for long-term reliability.

Dial Analysis

The watch dial is rich in symbolism. At the centre, it features a logo depicting two hands shaking, one with the colours of the United States flag and the other with those of the Soviet Union. This symbol of international cooperation is surrounded by the text “Seattle ’90” and “Goodwill Games,” clearly indicating the event and the year.

Significance of the Goodwill Games

The Goodwill Games were conceived by media mogul Ted Turner as a response to the Olympic boycotts during the Cold War. The first edition was held in 1986 in Moscow, and the 1990 event in Seattle marked a moment of détente between the United States and the Soviet Union. This sporting event aimed to promote peace and cooperation between the two superpowers.

Dial Details

In addition to the central logo, the dial features two red stars and the text “Zaria USSR,” confirming the Soviet origin of the watch. The gold-coloured hands stand out clearly against the white background of the dial, offering good legibility.

Conclusion

The Zaria watch from the 1990 Goodwill Games is an interesting example of Soviet watchmaking, with a design reflecting a specific moment in world history. Despite being an economical model with modest technical features, its value lies primarily in the historical and symbolic context represented by the dial. For enthusiasts of Russian and Soviet horology, this watch represents an intriguing piece to add to their collection, helping to preserve the memory of a period of international collaboration.

Raketa Karelia: 100 Years of Automotive History

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 0 Comment
russian watch Raketa 100 years of transport in republic of Karelia

A Jewel of History and Mechanics

The watch depicted in the photo is a Raketa model, calibre 2609 HA with 19 jewels. This specific timepiece, model number 4321xxx, was produced in the 1990s and celebrates the centenary of automotive transport in the Karelia region of Russia.

russian watch Raketa 100 years of transport in republic of Karelia
Raketa 100 years of transport in republic of Karelia

Dial Details

The watch’s dial is rich with symbolism and commemorations:

  • Historic and Modern Vehicles: At the top, there are illustrations of two vehicles: an old-fashioned car on the left and a modern vehicle on the right. These vehicles represent the evolution of automotive transport over a century.
  • Circular Inscription: The red inscription surrounding the dial reads “КАРЕЛИЯ 100 ЛЕТ АВТОМОБИЛЬНОМУ ТРАНСПОРТУ”, which translates to “Karelia, 100 years of automotive transport”. This underscores the centenary celebration.
  • Logo and Years: At the centre of the dial, a blue and red logo with the number “100” highlights the importance of the anniversary.

Historical Significance

The watch was created to celebrate an important milestone in the history of the Karelia region, highlighting the significance of automotive transport in the economic and social development of the area. The commemoration of 100 years of automotive transport reflects the technological and infrastructural progress that has taken place since the introduction of the first cars up to the present day.

The Raketa Brand

Raketa, one of the most renowned watch brands in Russia, has a long history of producing robust and reliable watches. The calibre 2609 HA used in this model is known for its precision and durability, making the watch not only a commemorative piece but also a high-quality technical object.

The Karelia Region

Karelia is a historic region located in the northwest of Russia, known for its breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural history. Here are some highlights about Karelia:

  • Geography and Nature: Karelia is characterised by a vast number of lakes and forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. Lake Ladoga, the largest in Europe, is partly located in Karelia.
  • History and Culture: The region has a complex and fascinating history, having been contested between Sweden, Russia, and Finland over the centuries. This has led to a rich cultural mix and diverse influences in language, music, and local traditions.
  • Economy: In addition to tourism, Karelia’s economy is based on the timber, fishing, and natural resources industries. In recent decades, automotive transport has played a key role in the region’s economic development, facilitating trade and mobility.

Conclusion

This Raketa watch is not just a timekeeping device, but also a piece of history that celebrates a century of progress in automotive transport in Karelia. With its distinctive design and significant details, it stands as a lasting tribute to the evolution and importance of automotive transport in the region.

Poljot Khrunichev Space Center Watch: A Tribute to Russian Space History

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Poljot Russian Watch Space Center Khrunichev

Introduction

In the 1990s, during the political and economic transition from the Soviet Union to the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), the renowned watch company Poljot produced a series of commemorative watches. Among them, the Poljot Khrunichev Space Center watch stands out as a tribute to the importance of the Khrunichev Space Center in Russian aerospace history. This article will explore in detail the features of this watch, the caliber that powers it, and the crucial role of the Khrunichev Space Center.

Poljot Russian Watch Space Center Khrunichev
Poljot Space Center Khrunichev

Watch Features

The Poljot Khrunichev Space Center watch is a perfect example of design and function, combining aesthetics and history in a single piece.

  • Dial: The dial is dominated by a stylized representation of the Northern Hemisphere, complete with parallels and meridians, and an artistic representation of interstellar space with stylized stars. At the center of the dial, the MIR space station, active at the time of the watch’s production, is clearly depicted. The “SPACE CENTER KHRUNISHEV” inscription emphasizes the center’s international significance. The raised metal indices and gold-plated hands add a touch of elegance.
  • Case: The round case is made of steel with a dual satin and gold finish, giving the watch a refined appearance. The bi-color dial, white and blue, creates a visually appealing contrast.
  • Back: The back of the watch is simple, with an engraved serial number (118218). Signs of attempted battery replacement by inexperienced hands are visible.

The Caliber

The watch is powered by the Poljot quartz caliber, known for its simplicity and reliability. This movement uses an AG1 button battery and does not contain jewels, a choice reflecting cost-consciousness without compromising functionality. The movement is secured inside the case by a white plastic component, a common solution for watches of this period.

russian poljot watch Khrunichev
Poljot Khrunichev Space Center
russian poljot watch Khrunichev
Poljot Khrunichev Space Center

Khrunichev Space Center: A Beacon of Russian Space Technology

The Khrunichev Space Center, founded in 1916 near Moscow, is one of the most influential institutions in Russian space exploration history. Originally engaged in the production of “Russo-Baltique” automobiles, the company quickly evolved, significantly contributing to the production of military aircraft such as the Ilyushin Il-4 and Tupolev Tu-2 during World War II.

In the 1960s, the center expanded its scope to include the production of missiles and space modules, becoming a key player in the Soviet space era. Notable achievements include modules for the MIR, SALYUT, and the current ISS space stations, as well as the Proton rockets, still in use today.

Further Reading on the History and Productions of the Khrunichev Space Center

For those interested in delving deeper into the history and innovations of the Khrunichev Space Center, here are some useful links:

Collecting Russian Watches: A Valuable Addition

The Poljot Khrunichev Space Center watch is a gem for collectors of space-themed watches. Purchased for about €20, it represents not only a piece of mechanical precision but also a tribute to Russian space history. Despite some signs of use on the back, the watch is in good condition and offers an excellent combination of history and functionality.

Dating the Watch

The presence of the MIR station on the dial helps date the watch between 1992 and 1998. The MIR station, operational from 1986 to 2001, is a key indicator. The absence of references to the Soviet Union suggests a post-1992 production, while the launch of the ISS in 1998 marks the end of the production period for this specific model.

Conclusion

The Poljot Khrunichev Space Center watch is more than just a timepiece; it is a piece of history. For collectors, it represents a unique opportunity to own an item that celebrates the remarkable achievements of the Khrunichev Space Center and Russian space history. This watch is perfect for enriching any collection with a piece of technological and cultural history.

Sovietaly: The Journey Behind the Logo and the Birth of a Unique Watch Collection

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment
logo sovietaly TM sfondo bianco

Sovietaly™ Russian Watches

Welcome to the story of Sovietaly, my collection of Russian and Soviet watches that has taken shape over the years. My passion for watches has deep roots in my life, roots that delve into the tales and stories of the watches my grandfather collected with care and pride. Growing up, those pieces of history always fascinated me, and in 2017, I began to make sense and structure of my expanding personal collection.

The Birth of the Sovietaly Website

In an attempt to organize the information and share my passion for Russian and Soviet watches, I decided to create a website. After exploring various options, I chose Google Sites for its simplicity and familiarity from past use. The result is the site you can visit here: Sovietaly. This space allowed me not only to showcase my collection but also to address an important issue: what to name this unique collection of watches?

The name “Sovietaly” was suggested by a dear collector friend who saw the deep connection between the concept of “Soviet” and Italy. This name became my distinctive brand, also used as a nickname in groups and forums. I decided to protect the brand (™) after legal advice, recognizing the value and protection my collection deserved.

The Creation of the First Logo

The second step was to find a logo that fully represented the essence of Sovietaly. Inspired by iconic symbols like the Raketa Big Zero watch, the hammer and sickle of the Soviet Union, and the colors of the Italian flag, the logo was created with the collaboration of a professional on Fiverr.com.

It should be emphasized that the logo with the hammer and sickle was created solely to evoke the collection of Soviet watches, without any reference to communist ideology or political issues, which do not interest me.

logo sovietaly TM sfondo bianco
Sovietaly (TM) logo

The Evolution of the Logo in 2024: A New Identity

In May 2024, I decided to renew the logo to eliminate any political references and to highlight the connection with Italy even more. The new logo maintains the brand’s recognizability, adding a border with the Italian flag, reflecting a new identity more aligned with reality, given the increasing dissemination on social media.

This is currently the logo of the site and social media channels, representing the identity of Sovietaly and its evolution more accurately.

Logo di Sovietaly
Logo di Sovietaly

A Journey of Passion and Sharing

The journey of Sovietaly has been an exciting path of growth, learning, and sharing. Since then, the Sovietaly logo has become a recognizable and original element, proudly accompanying the collection. Over time, I have also experimented with its presentation, using only the text as a watermark for photos on social media.

Each watch in my collection has a story to tell, a story that I could not wait to share with other enthusiasts. Each piece represents a piece of history, a fragment of time that carries the charm and mystery of past eras.

I hope this story can inspire other watch enthusiasts and collectors. Thank you for being part of this adventure!

Raketa Marine Navy 24h, the mystery unveiled…

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 0 Comment
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:

radio-room-wallclock (netgrafik.ch)
vostok-radio-room (netgrafik.ch)

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.

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Vostok Cosmonaut: The Watch of the Soviet Space Era

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soviet watch Vostok Generalskie Cosmonaut

The Vostok Cosmonaut, also improperly known as the Vostok Astronaut, is a highly sought-after Soviet watch among collectors worldwide. Its charm lies in the dial that depicts the profile of a cosmonaut inside a space suit helmet. But who is actually depicted? Let’s explore the various theories and the different versions of this iconic watch.

Versions of the Vostok Cosmonaut

There are primarily three variants of the Vostok Cosmonaut watch: two from the Soviet era and one from the post-Soviet transitional period. Additionally, there are different types of cases and bezels that add to the variety of this model.

Soviet Era Versions
  1. Black Dial The black dial version is usually housed in a chromed Generalskie 091xxx case, with the Vostok automatic caliber 2416b. Produced in the 1980s, it was mainly destined for the Italian and German markets. This model is easily recognizable by its typical unidirectional bezel with small dots.
  2. Blue Dial The blue dial version, much rarer, is set in a Neptune case and features a Vostok automatic caliber. Despite the color differences, the dial design remains substantially identical to the black version.
soviet watch Vostok Generalskie Cosmonaut
Vostok Generalskie Cosmonaut
http://www.orologiko.it/forum/viewtopic.php?t=10772
Transitional Period Version

There is also a post-Soviet version of the Vostok Cosmonaut. This variant, often marketed as Amphibia, follows the success of the Soviet versions with a very similar dial. The main differences lie in the case and bezel, as seen in the following images.

russian watch Vostok Amphibia Valentina Tereskova
Vostok Amphibia Valentina Tereskova
https://www.watchuseek.com/threads/cosmonaut-vostok.628747/

The Dial of the Vostok Cosmonaut

The most distinctive part of the watch is undoubtedly the dial, which depicts the profile of a cosmonaut with a helmet against a backdrop evoking deep space. The Soviet and transitional versions are very similar but present some differences in graphic details.

At first glance, it’s not easy to notice the differences between the two versions. However, by carefully comparing the reflections on the helmet and visor, distinctive details can be identified. Just take the position of the “P” on the helmet as a reference.

Confronto tra i quadranti del Vostok Astronaut

Who is Depicted?

There are three main theories regarding the identity of the cosmonaut depicted:

  1. Yuri Gagarin The most common theory is that the cosmonaut is Yuri Gagarin, the first man to travel into space. The delicate features of the depicted face resemble those of Gagarin, as seen in historical photos​ (Astronomy Scope)​​ (Night Sky Pix)​.
  2. Anna Lee Fisher Some suggest that the image might be inspired by American astronaut Anna Lee Fisher. Although it’s unlikely for an American astronaut to be depicted on a Soviet watch, the resemblance to some photographs of Fisher is striking​ (Difference Wiki)​.
  3. Valentina Tereshkova The most fascinating and perhaps most probable theory is that the face depicted is that of Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman to travel into space. Her historic mission aboard Vostok 6 in 1963 makes her an icon of the Soviet space era​ (Astronomy Scope)​​ (WorldAtlas)​.

Does the Vostok Cosmonaut Have Clones?

There is a similar, though less prestigious, version of the Vostok watch. It is a Slava model with manual winding and caliber 2428. The light gray/white dial features the profile drawing of the cosmonaut but with less definition compared to the original Vostok. Curiously, the bottom of the dial bears the name Yuri Gagarin in Cyrillic (Ю. А. ГАГАРИН), which might support the theory that the cosmonaut depicted is Gagarin.

russian watch Slava Gagarin
Slava Gagarin

Conclusions

The Vostok Cosmonaut, with its various versions, is a milestone in any collection dedicated to the space era and Soviet watches. The simplicity of the design and the cleanliness of the dial make it one of the best Soviet watches of the 1980s. Regarding who is depicted on the dial, the mystery adds an additional layer of charm. Whether it is Gagarin, Tereshkova, or a generic cosmonaut, the Vostok Cosmonaut continues to celebrate those brave men and women who paved the way for space exploration.

Difference Between Cosmonaut and Astronaut

The term “cosmonaut” is used to refer to space travelers trained by the Russian or Soviet space agency, while “astronaut” is used for those trained by U.S., European, Canadian, or Japanese space agencies​ (StarLust)​​ (Astronomy Scope)​​ (Night Sky Pix)​. The distinction originated during the Cold War and reflects the independence and competition between the U.S. and Soviet space programs.

  • Cosmonaut: Derived from the Greek words “kosmos” (universe) and “nautes” (sailor), meaning “sailor of the universe.”
  • Astronaut: Derived from the Greek words “astron” (star) and “nautes” (sailor), meaning “sailor of the stars.”

Fun Facts About Anna Lee Fisher

Anna Lee Fisher was the first mother to fly into space and worked as a chemist and astronaut for NASA. She was married to William Frederick Fisher, also an astronaut, and together they represented one of the few married couples to have both flown into space​ (Difference Wiki)​.

Insights on Yuri Gagarin and Valentina Tereshkova

  • Yuri Gagarin: The first man in space, on April 12, 1961, completing an orbit of the Earth with the Vostok 1 mission. His achievement represents a milestone in the history of space exploration​ (WorldAtlas)​​ (Night Sky Pix)​.
  • Valentina Tereshkova: The first woman in space, flew on June 16, 1963, aboard Vostok 6. Her mission lasted almost three days and marked a significant advancement in the inclusion of women in the space program​ (WorldAtlas)​​ (Night Sky Pix)​.

For further insights, here are some useful links:

  1. Forum Orologiko
  2. Watchuseek – Discussion on Vostok Cosmonaut
  3. Article on Valentina Tereshkova
  4. Biography of Yuri Gagarin
  5. History of Vostok Watches
  6. Technical Details on Soviet Watches
  7. Soviet Space Adventures

Khersones: The Majestic Three-Masted Sailing Ship and the Raketa Watch

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

The Khersones sailing ship is an impressive and fascinating vessel, whose majestic image stands out on the dial of a watch that is a prized piece for collectors. Among the first Russian watches in my collection, this model is appreciated not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for the intriguing history linked to the sailing ship depicted on the dial.

Raketa Khersones

The watch features an attractive design with white, metallic, and blue tones that evoke a maritime atmosphere. The rotating inner bezel, a distinctive feature of this model, lists the names of cities in English. The chrome-plated case and black-finished bezel harmonize perfectly with the dial, which is dominated by the image of the majestic Khersones sailing ship.

russian watch Raketa Kersones
Raketa Kersones

The Khersones Training Ship

The Khersones is a three-masted sailing ship built in 1989 at the Gdańsk shipyard in Poland. It is part of a series of six sister ships, the most famous of which is the MIR. Designed for training naval cadets, the Khersones is 108.6 meters long and 14 meters wide, with a mainmast height of 49.5 meters. The ship has a total sail area of 2,771 square meters, allowing it to achieve significant speeds powered solely by the wind.

History and Curiosities

  • Launch and Early Career: Launched in 1989, the Khersones was primarily intended for training students at the State Maritime Academy of the Black Sea. In its early years of service, it participated in numerous international regattas, earning a reputation for excellence.
  • Circumnavigation: Between 1997 and 1998, the Khersones completed a circumnavigation of the globe, becoming one of the few Russian sailing ships to accomplish such a feat. During this voyage, it visited ports worldwide, serving as a floating ambassador of Russian seafaring.
  • Film Fame: The Khersones has appeared in several films and documentaries, enhancing its iconic image. Its presence in cinematic productions has helped spread knowledge of the ship beyond nautical circles.
  • Current Status: The Khersones is still in service today, flying the Russian flag. It is often sighted in the Black Sea near Sevastopol and continues to serve as a training ship for new generations of sailors.

To follow the current location of the Khersones, you can use the MarineTraffic website.

Collecting and Exploring

Collecting watches often leads to a desire to explore and learn more about the objects that inspire them. Personally, I enjoy pairing watches with related items like stamps, pins, or postcards. Recently, I found a postcard that depicts the Khersones sailing ship in all its majesty.

The Raketa Watch

The Raketa Khersones is a comfortably wearable watch, once you understand how to read the time correctly on a 24-hour dial. The case is typical of 24-hour watches, with TiN finishing and a black-finished bezel. Inside, the watch houses the 2623.H 24-hour caliber, a reliable movement used by Raketa.

Conclusion

The Raketa Khersones watch is not just a beautiful object but also a tribute to the rich history of the sailing ship it represents. Collecting it means appreciating both naval history and craftsmanship that come together in a unique and fascinating piece.

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