The Vostok Komandirskie watch, with its enigmatic dial, has sparked curiosity and various hypotheses over time. This article explores two main theories regarding the meaning behind the dial.
Vostok Komandirskie
Theory 1: The Volkhov Hydroelectric Plant
The first theory suggests that the watch was commissioned to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Volkhov Hydroelectric Plant.
In the center of the watch dial, there is an image resembling a diaphragm, a propeller, or more likely, a Francis turbine, commonly used in the early 20th century for low-pressure applications. This type of turbine is ideal for the technology of the time and fits the historical context.
The Volkhov Hydroelectric Plant, the first hydroelectric power plant built according to the GOELRO plan, was put into operation in 1926. Celebrating its 70th anniversary in 1986 aligns well with the production period of the Vostok Komandirskie watch.
Fotografia della serata di gala dedicata al 70° anniversario della centrale idroelettrica di Volkhov. Una lettera di ringraziamento viene presentata a un dipendente della centrale dal sindaco della città di Volkhov, Volchkova N.M. Fonte: union.lenoblmus.ru.
In 2016, to mark the 90th anniversary of the plant, a monument featuring a turbine was unveiled outside the plant. Here are photos of the monument and the plaque translation:
Monument in honor of the builders and power engineers of the Volkhov Hydroelectric Power Plant. The plaque reads: “Monumento in onore dei costruttori e degli ingegneri energetici della centrale idroelettrica di Volkhov. Volkhovskaya HPP – la prima centrale idroelettrica costruita secondo il piano GOELRO, messa in funzione nel 1926.
Detail of the plaque on the monument honoring the builders and power engineers of the Volkhov Hydroelectric Power Plant. The plaque reads: “Монумент в честь строителей и энергетиков Волховской ГЭС. Волховская ГЭС – первая гидроэлектростанция, построенная по плану ГОЭЛРО, введена в эксплуатацию в 1926 году.
Translation of the plaque: “Monument in honor of the builders and energy engineers of the Volkhov Hydroelectric Plant. Volkhovskaya HPP – the first hydroelectric power station built according to the GOELRO plan, put into operation in 1926.”
Theory 2: The Oil Industry Connection
Another plausible theory, discussed in detail on the cccp-forum.it by users cuoccimix, zvezda, DaniLao, fiurdesoca, Cane, Trash, and robyvintage, suggests that the watch might be related to the oil industry.
This theory posits that the symbol on the dial represents a component used in oil extraction. Fiurdesoca shared a photo of a commemorative watch featuring a similar turbine symbol, along with the text “ЦБПО ЭПУ,” suggesting a connection to oil drilling. The watch has a stylized drilling rig and the dates 1985-1995, with the name of the city Langepas, indicating a link to the oil industry.
Description of fiurdesoca’s watch: This commemorative watch has a dial depicting a stylized drilling rig with the dates 1985-1995 and the name Langepas. The text on the dial, “ЦБПО ЭПУ,” translates to “Central Bureau of Production Services for Electrical Submersible Installations,” pointing towards an oil industry connection.
Close-up of a commemorative watch celebrating 10 years (1985-1995) of ЦБПО ЭПУ in Лангепас. Image property of fiurdesoca.
About ЦБПО ЭПУ: The Central Bureau of Production Services for Electrical Submersible Installations (ЦБПО ЭПУ) is a company located in Surgut, part of the OJSC “Surgutneftgas” group, one of the largest oil companies in Russia. The company specializes in the maintenance and repair of electric centrifugal pumps used primarily in the oil industry.
Founded to provide technical services and support for extraction operations, ЦБПО ЭПУ engages in a wide range of activities, including the assembly and disassembly of electric pump installations, management of control stations, and repair of electrical equipment. These devices are crucial for the operation of extraction and management of natural resources like oil and gas.
The company has participated in various meetings and conferences with other industry companies, focusing on topics such as industrial safety, equipment maintenance, and operational efficiency of installations. For example, in a recent meeting in Neftekumsk, themes like workplace safety, pump maintenance, and resource management were discussed.
Employee reviews of ЦБПО ЭПУ are mixed, with some criticisms regarding internal management and working conditions. However, the company remains a key player in the oil industry services sector, significantly contributing to the maintenance and operation of critical infrastructure in Russia.
Without conclusive evidence, both theories remain viable. Future discoveries and further information may validate or refute these hypotheses.
The Ostwok brand represents a fascinating chapter in horological history, blending the reliability of Soviet military watches with Swiss prestige and precision. Founded in 1993, Ostwok SA was based in Fehraltorf, Switzerland, and specialized in importing and distributing Russian Vostok watches under a brand that suggested Swiss origin. This article explores the company’s history, the details of its products, and the mysterious 1994 contest, providing a comprehensive overview of this intriguing phenomenon.
800,000 CHF in 1993: Assuming an average exchange rate of 1.50 CHF per euro and an annual inflation rate of 2%, this amount would be approximately 800,000 CHF x 0.66 = 528,000 EUR today.
1,000 CHF per share in 1993: Similarly, each share would be worth approximately 1,000 CHF x 0.66 = 660 EUR today.
Primo piano di una scatola nera con l’indirizzo della società OSTWOK SA. Immagine di proprietà di Sovietaly.
The Ostwok Brand
Ostwok is an anagram of Wostok, the German name for Vostok, chosen to facilitate correct pronunciation in German-speaking countries. The Ostwok logo, which replaced Vostok’s Cyrillic “B” with a “W”, was a distinctive feature and often included graphic symbols such as stars or military emblems. This branding aimed to create an image of Swiss watches, leveraging Switzerland’s reputation in watchmaking (WatchUSeek Watch Forums) (SOVIETALY™).
Ostwok Watches
The watches sold under the Ostwok brand were actually Vostok Komandirskie and Amphibia models, known for their robustness and durability. These watches, originally produced for the Red Army, featured mechanical movements and often had cases finished in titanium nitride. They were sold with a kit that included a cardboard box and a leaflet with instructions and warranty (TrademarkRegistrationOnline) (SOVIETALY™).
Ostwok Generals-Uhr
Ostwok Paratrooper
Ostwok Kosmonauten-Uhr
Registration in Canada
Ostwok SA registered several trademarks in Canada starting in 1994, including trademarks for horological and chronometric instruments and related accessories. However, the registration procedures were interrupted, and the trademarks were abandoned by 1998. This registration was part of a strategy to expand the brand’s international presence and protect it in global markets (TrademarkRegistrationOnline) (WatchUSeek Watch Forums).
The 1994 Contest
In 1994, Ostwok SA launched a contest to promote its watches. The contest offered significant prizes, including sums of money (SFr. 10,000 for the first prize and SFr. 5,000 for the second prize) and Ostwok watches. Participants had to correctly answer three questions regarding Ostwok SA’s headquarters, whether the watches required batteries, and the presence of a quality certificate. The deadline for submissions was 31 May 1994, and the winners were to be selected under notarial supervision. No further specific information about the contest’s outcome or winners has been found (SOVIETALY™) (SOVIETALY™) (WatchUSeek Watch Forums).
Pubblicità in tedesco che promuove orologi militari russi Ostwok con diversi modelli visibili. Immagine di proprietà di Mchap.
Translation of the Advertisement:
Jetzt schlägt’s OSTWOK
OSTWOK, die russische Original-Militäruhr
Jetzt sind sie da! Die einzig echten Original-Kommandirskie-Militäruhren aus der ehemaligen Sowjetunion. Diese weitgehendst handgefertigten, mechanischen und robusten Spezialuhren sind bereits im härtesten Testmarkt Schweiz der absolute Renner. Nun ist die erste Kollektion, die eigens für die ehemalige sowjetische Armee-Elite kreiert wurde, auch in Deutschland eingetroffen. Weitere Serien werden folgen!
Die schweizerische Handelsfirma OSTWOK SA hat den alleinigen weltweiten Vertrieb exklusiv in Händen und bietet sie im Direktverkauf unter der Marke OSTWOK mit Lederarmband, Qualitätszertifikat vom Werk und 1 Jahr Garantie an. Sichern Sie sich dieses batteriefreie, wasserdichte und stoßfeste Liebhaberstück. Es besteht ein Ansichts- bzw. Rückgaberecht innerhalb 5 Tagen. Die Uhren bleiben bis zur vollständigen Bezahlung im Eigentum der Lieferfirma.
Verlangen Sie unseren Prospekt für weitere Kommandirskie-Uhren!
Bitte einsenden an: Ostwok SA, Postfach 200, CH-8320 Fehraltorf
Now it’s time for OSTWOK
OSTWOK, the original Russian military watch
Now they are here! The only genuine original Komandirskie military watches from the former Soviet Union. These predominantly handmade, mechanical, and robust special watches are already the absolute hit in the toughest Swiss test market. Now the first collection, specially created for the former Soviet army elite, has also arrived in Germany. More series will follow!
The Swiss trading company OSTWOK SA has exclusive worldwide distribution rights and offers them for direct sale under the OSTWOK brand with a leather strap, factory quality certificate, and a 1-year warranty. Secure these battery-free, waterproof, and shockproof collector’s items. There is a viewing and return right within 5 days. The watches remain the property of the supplier until full payment.
Request our brochure for more Komandirskie watches!
Order Telephone: 0130 815 888 (toll-free) Order Fax: 004119 551 313
Name/Surname: Street/No.: ZIP/City: Telephone Number: Date of Birth: Date, Signature:
Please send to: Ostwok SA, Postfach 200, CH-8320 Fehraltorf
Contract with Switzerland
A period newspaper article describes the contract between a Swiss company, BN, and the Vostok watch factory. This contract involved the supply of 1.5 million “Commandant” watches and exclusive distribution in the West. Vostok’s administrative director, Vladimir Irnjiev, confirmed the details without revealing specific information about the Swiss partner or the contract amount (WatchUSeek Watch Forums).
Articolo di giornale francese che annuncia il contratto tra la fabbrica di orologi russa Ostwok e una società svizzera per la fornitura di 1,5 milioni di orologi Commandant. Immagine di proprietà di Mchap.
Text of the Article:
Massive, inelegant, but reliable, the Russian “Commandant” watch was once reserved for Red Army officers. For three years, it has made its appearance in the West, with some success. So much so that a Swiss company, BN, has just signed a contract with the “Vostok” watch factory, which will supply 1.5 million “Commandant” watches in the coming years.
The Swiss firm has also acquired exclusive sales rights in the West. Available on the Russian market for about 5000 rubles (about 45 francs), these massive watches are now distributed internationally.
Contacted in Chistopol, in the Tatarstan region (central Russia), the administrative director of “Vostok”, Vladimir Irnjiev, remains very evasive.
He confirms the data published by the Russian agency Interfax but says nothing more, neither about the Swiss partner nor about the amount of the contract, “a commercial secret”.
As for the BN company, it is unknown to the Swiss Watch Federation, which keeps a register of all Swiss companies that produce and market watches.
With an annual production of about 70 million watches, Russia is one of the “giants” of watchmaking, along with Japan, Hong Kong, and Switzerland.
Updated Values in Euros:
45 Swiss francs in 1994: With the same exchange rate and inflation, this amount would be about 45 CHF x 0,66 = 29,7 EUR today.
With this information, we can better understand the history and uniqueness of Ostwok watches, an intriguing blend of Soviet reliability and European style. Ostwok represents a fascinating example of how watchmaking can unite different cultural and technical traditions, creating unique and sought-after products for collectors.
Vostok Komandirskie: Symbols of Russian History and Identity
Vostok Komandirskie watches are tangible testaments to Russian history, produced since the 1980s and still made in the Chistopol factory. In addition to being a piece of history, these watches embody the identity and pride of Russia through the emblems of important entities.
The Emblems of Vostok Komandirskie
Orologi Vostok Komandirskie 819630
Orologio Vostok Komandirskie 819633
Orologio Vostok Komandirskie 819639
Vostok Komandirskie 819630 (ВДВ): This model features the emblem of the ВДВ (Воздушно-десантные войска), the Russian airborne forces. This acronym is transliterated as Vozdushno-desantnye voyska. Buy it here.
Vostok Komandirskie 819633 (ПВРФ): Here we find the central emblem of the ПВРФ (Пограничная служба Федеральной службы безопасности Российской Федерации), the border service of the Russian Federation, transliterated as Pogranichnaya sluzhba Federalnoy sluzhby bezopasnosti Rossiyskoy Federatsii. Buy it here.
Vostok Komandirskie 819639 (МЧС РФ): This model features the central emblem of the МЧС РФ (Министерство Российской Федерации по делам гражданской обороны), the Ministry for Civil Defence Affairs of the Russian Federation, transliterated as Ministerstvo Rossiyskoy Federatsii po delam grazhdanskoy oborony. Buy it here.
Vostok Komandirskie: Historic and Contemporary
The history of Vostok Komandirskie watches dates back to the 1980s, but their production continues to reflect Russian heritage. On Meranom.com, you can explore these iconic watches with the emblems of the ВДВ, ПВРФ and МЧС РФ, authentic symbols of Russian history and identity.
In this article, I will review the Vostok Komandirskie 436942, a classic model produced by the Chistopol factory in Russia. The watch is available for purchase on the Meranom.com online store, an authorized dealer of Vostok watches.
Technical specifications
The watch has a brass case with a new type of titanium oxocarbonitride coating that gives it a pleasant matte gray metallic appearance. The dial is matte black with the Cyrillic abbreviation “мчс России” which means Ministry of Emergency Situations and the English word “EMERCOM”.
It is powered by a Vostok 2414 manual-winding movement with 17 jewels. The power reserve is 36 hours and the recommended service interval is every 10 years. The watch has a thermoformed acrylic crystal and a water resistance rating of 20 meters.
Vostok Komandirskie 436942 EMERCOM
Relationship with the Ministry of Emergency Situations
The Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations is a government agency responsible for dealing with natural and man-made disasters. The Vostok Komandirskie 436942 is a commemorative model of the ministry.
mchs Emercom russian patch
Value for money
The Vostok Komandirskie 436942 offers excellent value for money. The watch is well-built and has a classic design. The purchase price is less than $60. The price may vary over time.
It is possible to purchase this watch by clicking on the image below to support content creation:
The Vostok Komandirskie 436942 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a classic and reliable watch at an affordable price.
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This watch belongs to the sub-collection dedicated to space, specifically the Russian Space Military Forces. It was acquired through a less competitive auction on eBay.de and was delivered this morning via Deutsche Post. The description provided was inadequate, resulting in the watch not appearing in regular searches conducted by collectors.
THE VOSTOK RUSSIAN SPACE MILITARY FORCES WATCH Brand: VOSTOK – KOMANDIRSKIE Category: SPACE – MILITARY Movement: AUTOMATIC MECHANICAL Availability: RARE
DIAL
The dial is the most captivating aspect of the watch, featuring a complex and visually engaging design. It can be divided into two distinct concentric parts, both circular in shape.
Vostok Generalskie Russian Space Forces
Outer Part: The outer part of the dial is light brown in color, showcasing white Arabic numeral indices, excluding the number 3 to accommodate the date window, as well as the numbers 6, 9, and 12. Instead of these indices, there is a white four-pointed star with a brown inner part. The star has the same height as the numerals.
Small minute indices are present, and the hour markers feature a yellow/green luminescent dot. Two luminescent dots are positioned at 12 o’clock.
The absence of any text suggests that it is a transitional era watch.
Inner Part: The inner part of the dial has a sugar blue color and displays various pieces of information.
At the top, there is a Cyrillic inscription: Военно Космические Силы, which translates to “Military Space Forces.”
In the center, there are abbreviations: МО РФ, representing “Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation.”
Immediately below, one of the winged emblems of the Aerospace Forces is depicted.
At the bottom, the Vostok symbol and the inscription “Komandirskie” can be found, although it should be noted that the case is clearly Generalskie.
The dial may have faded over time, as the central part of the emblem should be blue. It is likely that the outer part was originally closer to blue than brown in color.
No additional details are present on the dial.
HANDS
The hour and minute hands have a gold color and feature the classic shape found in Komandirskie watches. The luminescent material on the hands matches the yellow/green color on the dial.
The seconds hand is red and lacks a luminescent dot.
CASE AND CROWN
The case is of the 097XXX type, indicating a Generalskie case finished with TiN (Titanium Nitride).
The screw-down crown is also finished with TiN and has a domed outer part.
No notable features are present on the case.
BEZEL
The gold-colored bezel, also finished with TiN, complements the case. It is a standard bidirectional bezel with 5 red dots, one of which is larger, and the remaining 7 dots are black. The bezel does not click.
CASEBACK
The original caseback of the watch has been replaced with a transparent mineral glass one, making it impossible to determine the original caseback. It is likely that a standard caseback was initially in place.
orologio Vostok Forze Militari Spaziali Russe
MOVEMENT
The watch is powered by a Vostok 2416Б automatic mechanical movement with manual winding capability.
The balance wheel features the Vostok symbol.
Jewels: 31 jewels Frequency: 19,800 vibrations per hour Power reserve: 40 hours
HISTORICAL NOTES ON THE RUSSIAN SPACE MILITARY FORCES
The Russian Space Military Forces (Russian: Космические войска: воздушно-кос
мические силы; transliterated: Vozdušno-Kosmičeskie Sily Rossii) constituted a branch of the armed forces of the Russian Federation responsible for military operations in space. The military command was based in Moscow.
Established on August 10, 1982, as a separate branch of the Soviet armed forces, the organization became part of the military forces of the newly formed Russian Federation on May 7, 1992. In 1997, the VKS (Vozdušno-Kosmičeskie Sily) were incorporated into the Strategic Missile Forces. In June 2001, they were officially reconstituted as an independent section of the Russian armed forces.
On August 1, 2015, the Space Military Forces merged with the Air Force, forming the Russian Aerospace Forces.
FUN FACTS ABOUT THE RUSSIAN SPACE MILITARY FORCES
The emblem of the Space Military Forces, which is displayed on the watch dial and is common among Soviet, Russian, and modern watches, is quite distinct. Finding credible information about it through regular search engines can be challenging. However, I discovered a credible discussion on a Russian antiquarian forum: https://forum.ww2.ru/index.php?showtopic=46257
In a post from 2007, a user reported the following:
Приложение к Приказу Министра обороны СССР 1989 г. №160 ОПИСАНИЕ нагрудного знака для классных специалистов из числа лиц офицерского состава, прапорщиков и мичманов, проходящих службу в соединениях, частях и учреждениях Управления начальника космических средств Министрерства обороны СССР. Нагрудный знак представляет собой развернутые крылья золотистого цвета. В центре знака на фоне вселенной темно-синего цвета – изображение земного шара светло-голубого цвета. Земной шар опоясан золотистой орбитой спутника. Контур вселенной обрамлен лавровыми ветвями, на крайнюю часть которых наложена пятиконечная звезда, покрытая красной эмалью, на нижнюю часть – ромб, в центре которого соответственно классу расположены цифры – 1, 2, 3 или буква “М”, покрытые белой эмалью.
“Appendix to the Order of the Minister of Defense of the USSR 1989 No. 160 DESCRIPTION of the breast badge for class specialists among the officers, warrant officers, and midshipmen serving in the units, units, and institutions of the Office of the Chief of Space Forces of the Ministry of Defense of the USSR. The breast badge is an extended wing of golden color. In the center of the badge, against the background of the universe of dark blue color, there is an image of a light blue globe. The globe is surrounded by a golden satellite orbit. The contour of the universe is framed by laurel branches, on the outer part of which a five-pointed star covered with red enamel is superimposed, and on the lower part, there is a diamond, in the center of which, depending on the class, numbers – 1, 2, 3, or the letter “M” covered with white enamel are located.”
COLLECTION
This watch is an appropriate addition to sub-collections featuring watches with both space and military themes.
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
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.
Missile Troops and Artillery: here is the true meaning of this dial revealed. It’s a widely distributed Vostok Komandirskie, and often people wonder about the hidden meanings behind such a cryptic dial. Careful research is required to uncover the exact significance of the various symbols on the dial.
Discovering the Watch
I found this watch for a few euros in a lot, and it immediately intrigued me. I had seen it many times, but never so peculiar or beautiful to justify a single purchase. After a bit of investigation, curiosity took over, and I sought to find out what it was exactly about.
The Watch
The watch, upon closer inspection, is quite standard. It’s a Russian Vostok Komandirskie with a 2414 movement and a 439xxx case. Both the glass and the case are unfortunately quite damaged, but the watch is still functional, indicating that the reliable Vostok 2414 works well even under harsh conditions.
Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops
Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops: Where Are the Missile Troops and Artillery?
Everything is grouped in the emblem found at the six o’clock position on the dial. What is it about?
The image consists of three elements:
A laurel wreath
Two cannons
A missile
Uncovering the Meaning
After some research and the help of a Dutch collector friend, I found a military patch online that clarified the meaning. The writing: ракетные войска и артиллерия on the patch means “Missile Troops and Artillery.” This is therefore a commemorative Vostok of these armed forces, which are part of the Vooružënnye Sily Rossijskoj Federacii, or the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.
A curiosity: on November 19, Russia celebrates the “Day of the Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Federation.” Here is a video about it:
Missile Troops and Artillery: Who Are They?
For those interested, here is the link to the Russian Wikipedia page: LINK.
Interesting information I found includes the existence of:
Missile Troops and Artillery of the ground forces of the Russian armed forces
Missile Troops and Artillery of the coastal forces of the Russian armed forces
Tasks of the Missile Troops and Artillery
The missile troops and artillery are tasked with:
Achieving and maintaining fire superiority over the enemy
Destroying enemy nuclear attack means, personnel, weapons, military, and special equipment
Disorganizing enemy troop and weapon command and control systems, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare
Destroying long-term defensive structures and other infrastructure
Disrupting enemy operational and military rear
Weakening and isolating the enemy’s second echelons and reserves
Destroying tanks and other armored vehicles penetrating the enemy’s depth
Covering flanks and open joints
Participating in the destruction of enemy airborne and amphibious assault forces
Remote mining of areas and objects
Supporting night operations of troops
Smoking and blinding enemy objects
Distributing propaganda materials and others
Conclusion
It is easy to see how even a simple Vostok Komandirskie can intrigue and lead to unexpected in-depth research. Sometimes the only challenge is navigating the numerous military units present in Russia. The watch was probably commissioned for some celebration or simply made like many others to celebrate the armed forces.
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.
Do all watches have symmetric cases? The answer is clearly NO. Although in most cases the case is symmetric, designers sometimes decide to vary the design, creating some dynamism. A few months ago, I bought a Vostok Komandirskie in poor condition but with the peculiarity of having an asymmetric case.
Today I want to talk about a watch I found a few months ago on eBay that intrigued me quite a bit. The dial is quite plain, but the asymmetric case enlivens the look of this watch.
Vostok Komandirskie asimmetric case
Watch Description
Brand and Model: Vostok Komandirskie
Case: Asymmetric with TiN (Titanium Nitride) finish
Dial: Blue with gold and white indices. The hours are indicated with gold Arabic numerals on a black background, and there is a date window at 3 o’clock.
Hands: Gold with luminescent inserts, the second hand is red.
Bezel: Peculiar with indices characterized by red and black triangles and a red dot at 12 o’clock.
Movement: Classic 2414A manual winding.
Case Back: Features the engraving of a rising sun, presumably original.
Analysis of the Asymmetric Case
The asymmetric case of this Vostok Komandirskie is a distinctive feature that immediately catches the eye. The TiN finish gives the watch superior resistance and an elegant appearance. The bezel, with its unique indices, adds another element of visual interest.
Historical and Collecting Research
Doing some online research and talking with some foreign collectors, it seems that this case is quite common but not officially cataloged. Therefore, it lacks an identifying code in the known schematics. This makes the watch even more fascinating for collectors, as it represents a sort of undocumented mystery.
Other Examples of Asymmetric Cases
This is not the only case of an asymmetric case in the history of Soviet watchmaking. There are fine examples of Stolichnie, Raketa, and clearly Vostok watches, to name those I remember. Some simple details can make a seemingly minimal-value Komandirskie interesting.
Conclusion
The Vostok Komandirskie watch with an asymmetric case represents a unique and fascinating piece, both aesthetically and from a collecting perspective. The combination of distinctive design, TiN finish, and classic technical features makes it a noteworthy specimen in the history of Soviet watches.
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