Russian Military Watches: A Comprehensive Guide

russian watch Vostok Ratnik 6Э4-1

Russian military watches represent an important chapter in horological history. These instruments were designed to be robust, reliable, and functional under the most extreme conditions. Soviet military watches were not just accessories but essential work tools for coordinating military operations. Used by various branches of the armed forces, including pilots, divers, navy officers, and vehicle crews, these watches were assigned to military personnel as part of their standard equipment.

Military or Militaristic Watches?

It is important to note that many Russian and Soviet watches are often mistakenly considered military. In reality, many of these were simply militaristic watches, often sold in Voentorg stores open only to military personnel. This limited access contributed to the mistaken belief that all these watches were exclusively for military use. An example of these militaristic watches is the Vostok Komandirskie.

Sturmanskie

Sturmanskie Type I and Type II

Sturmanskie Type I and Type II watches were provided exclusively to Soviet Air Force pilots. Type I was introduced in 1949 with a 15-jewel movement and a hacking feature for precise synchronization. Type II, introduced in 1954, had 17 jewels and improvements in shock and water resistance. Both models used radium on the hands and dial to ensure visibility in the dark, making them slightly radioactive Wikipedia on Sturmanskie Type I and Type II.

soviet watch Sturmanskie Type 1
Sturmanskie Type 1
soviet watch Sturmanskie Type 2
Sturmanskie Type 2

Sturmanskie Chronograph (3133)

This chronograph model, introduced in 1977, used the 3133 movement, known for its reliability and ease of maintenance. It was intended for pilots and cosmonauts and was distributed exclusively within the armed forces. The 3133 chronograph has become a symbol of precision and durability Official Sturmanskie website.

sovien chronograph watch Sturmanskie Air Force
Sturmanskie Air Force

Zlatoust (Agat)

Zlatoust watches, produced by the Agat factory, were primarily designed for Soviet Navy divers. Known for their large size and robustness, these watches used radium for luminescence, ensuring visibility even in complete darkness. Zlatoust watches are still appreciated today for their durability and unique design Official Agat/Zlatoust website.

soviet Zlatoust diver
Zlatoust Diver

Okean (3133)

Okean Watch

Launched in 1976, the Okean was a chronograph designed for Soviet Navy officers. It used the 3133 movement and included features such as a telemeter and chronograph. These watches were not available in stores and were distributed in limited quantities, often included in ship equipment. The Okean is known for its robust design and reliability under extreme conditions Voensklad.com on Okean 3133.

Vostok Ratnik

Vostok Ratnik 6E4-1 and 6E4-2

Vostok Ratnik watches are part of the “Ratnik” equipment adopted by the Russian Ministry of Defence in 2014. These watches are designed for military use and are included in the Russian soldiers’ equipment kit. Models 6E4-1 and 6E4-2 feature an automatic Vostok 2416 movement with 31 jewels, a stainless steel case, water resistance up to 200 metres (20 ATM), and anti-magnetic and shock-resistant properties. These watches are known for their robustness and reliability in extreme conditions Vostok-Watches24.com on Vostok Ratnik 6E4-1 and 6E4-2.

russian watch Vostok Ratnik 6Э4-2
Vostok Ratnik 6Э4-2
russian watch Vostok Ratnik 6Э4-1
Vostok Ratnik 6Э4-1

Poljot Strela

Poljot Strela watches (calibre 3017) were provided exclusively to high-ranking pilots and cosmonauts. These chronographs were highly valued for their precision and robustness, used in critical missions both in aviation and space Wikipedia on Poljot Strela.

Vehicle Watches

Watches used in military vehicles, such as planes and tanks, were built to withstand the harshest operational conditions. These timekeeping instruments often used radium to ensure readability in all conditions. They were essential for coordinating operations and controlling mission timings, significantly contributing to the operational effectiveness of the Soviet armed forces Wikipedia on Soviet military vehicle watches.

Considerations on Radioactive Materials

The use of radium in Soviet military watches was common to ensure visibility in the dark. However, with the emerging health risks associated with radioactivity, radium was gradually replaced by safer materials such as tritium and photoluminescent compounds. The transition from radium to tritium in Soviet watches occurred around 1960. This change was driven by the growing awareness of the health risks posed by radium and the need for safer alternatives Radium dial – Wikipedia, Worn & Wound, WatchUSeek.

Limited Access and Distribution

Many of these watches were assigned to military personnel as part of their standard equipment. They were not available through commercial channels but were distributed directly by the armed forces to active service members, significantly contributing to the operational effectiveness of the Soviet armed forces Wikipedia on Soviet military watches.

Final Observations

The list and description of Soviet military watches presented in this article are not exhaustive, given the long duration of the Soviet Union and the extensive production of military watches. It is impossible to provide a complete list of every single military watch created during that period.

These watches not only represent an important chapter in military horological history but continue to be appreciated for their quality, robustness, and unique history.


Vostok and Raketa Holographic Watches

russian holographic watch Raketa

Vostok and Raketa are renowned Russian watch brands known for their innovative holographic watches. These timepieces, particularly those with military and commemorative themes, have garnered significant interest among collectors. Additionally, some rare Vostok models feature the Poljot 2609 caliber instead of the typical Vostok 2414A, further increasing their rarity and desirability.

Key Highlights

Vostok Holographic Watches

  • Military Themes: Vostok holographic watches often showcase images of military vehicles such as tanks and airplanes, reflecting the brand’s historical connection to the Russian military.
  • Commemorative Editions: These watches celebrate significant events and anniversaries, making them popular among collectors.
  • Rare Variants: Some Vostok models are equipped with the Poljot 2609 caliber, a deviation from the typical Vostok 2414A, making these models particularly rare and valuable.
Holographic Vostok Komandirskie Watch
Vostok unknown soldier tomb

Raketa Holographic Watches and Starcke Oy Collaboration

  • Holographic Designs: Raketa experimented with holographic designs in the 1980s, producing limited models with holographic elements such as images of Lenin and other Soviet symbols. These models were created in the experimental shop at the Petrodvorets Watch Factory and were often destroyed if they did not meet specific standards​ (WatchUSeek Watch Forums)​.
  • Collaboration with Starcke Oy: In the 1990s, Raketa collaborated with Starcke Oy, a Finnish company specializing in holographic films, to produce holographic watches. This collaboration aimed to enhance the visual appeal of Raketa watches by integrating advanced holographic technology into their designs​ (WatchUSeek Watch Forums)​​ (Raketa)​.
russian holographic watch Raketa
Holographic Raketa

About Starcke Oy

Starcke Oy is a Finnish company founded in 1983, specializing in brand protection and unique packaging solutions. The company gained recognition for its high-quality holographic films, which were used not only in Raketa watches but also in various security and branding applications. Starcke’s expertise in holography made them a valuable partner for Raketa during their collaboration in the 1990s​ (Wikipedia, vapaa tietosanakirja)​.

Other Soviet Brands

  • Experimental Designs: Besides Vostok and Raketa, other Soviet watch brands also experimented with holographic dials, though these models are rarer. Collectors highly seek these timepieces due to their unique designs and limited production runs.

Collectibility and Market Value

These holographic watches are highly sought after in the collector’s market due to their unique designs, historical significance, and the rare variants equipped with different calibers. The collaboration between Raketa and Starcke Oy, in particular, represents a significant chapter in the history of Russian watchmaking, blending traditional craftsmanship with innovative technology.

Further Information

For detailed discussions and examples of these watches, visit forums like Watch.ru and Faleristika.info or this section of the sovietaly’s website. These forums provide extensive insights from collectors, showcasing various models and their historical contexts.

Conclusion

Vostok and Raketa holographic watches represent a fascinating blend of technology and traditional watchmaking. Their military themes, commemorative designs, and collaborations with companies like Starcke Oy make them highly collectible and valuable pieces of horological history.

Poljot History: Soviet Watchmaking Excellence

soviet watch Sturmanskie Type 2

The Poljot brand represents one of the most significant symbols of the Russian watchmaking industry, with a history rich in technical successes and space adventures. Since its founding, Poljot has embodied the Soviet ambition to achieve technological self-sufficiency and establish itself as a world leader in watch production.

The Origins: From the United States to the Soviet Union

In the late 1920s, the Soviet Union relied heavily on imported watches, a necessity that cost the government precious gold. To end this dependency, it was decided in 1927 to start domestic watch production. In 1929, through the Amtorg Trading Corporation, the Soviet government purchased the facilities of two bankrupt American factories: the Ansonia Clock Company and the Dueber-Hampden Watch Company. Twenty-one former Dueber-Hampden employees moved to Moscow to train local workers, marking the beginning of the First Soviet Watch Factory.

Initially, the factory produced four main models: a 15-jewel pocket watch for the Ministry of Communications, a 7-jewel wristwatch for the Red Army, a 7-jewel civilian pocket watch, and a 15-jewel ladies’ wristwatch. Thanks to the training received, local workers soon managed production autonomously.

The War Period and Innovation

With the German invasion during World War II, the factory was relocated to Zlatoust and returned to Moscow in 1943. During this period, the factory also began producing ammunition. In 1946, the K26 Pobeda model was launched, followed in 1949 by the Sturmanskie model, designed exclusively for military aviation. This watch became famous when Yuri Gagarin probably wore it during the first human space flight on April 12, 1961.

In the 1950s, the factory continued to innovate, introducing the first automatic watch under the Rodina brand in 1956 and special models for unique missions, such as the Soviet Antarctic expedition in 1957. That same year, to celebrate the success of the Sputnik mission, commemorative watches were produced, remaining in production for only one year.

The Establishment of the Poljot Brand

In 1960, the first models bearing the Poljot name, which means “flight” in Russian, were launched. The brand became synonymous with quality and precision, exporting watches worldwide. The Strela chronograph, inspired by the Swiss Venus 150, was used by Alexei Leonov during the first spacewalk in 1965.

With the introduction of the Poljot brand in 1964, the factory consolidated all its models under a single label. The 1970s saw a renewal of available movements and the acquisition of production lines from the Swiss Valjoux, leading to the creation of the 3133 movement, a chronograph used for both military and civilian purposes.

The Post-Soviet Era and Revival

After the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1992, Poljot was named the official supplier to the President of the Russian Federation. The company ceased quartz watch production to focus on a niche market, introducing new lines based on modified 3133 movements. However, the company had to downsize and sell machinery to other companies, leading to the founding of Volmax by some former Poljot employees.

Despite the challenges, in 2003, Poljot adopted the name First Moscow Watch Factory, continuing production for the international market. Today, the Poljot brand is recognized for its tradition of precision and reliability, keeping alive a history inseparably linked to aviation and space adventures.

Curiosities and Iconic Models

Among the most famous Poljot models are the “Sturmanskie” worn by Gagarin and the “Strela” chronograph, symbols of Russian space exploration. Poljot watches are handcrafted by skilled artisans, giving them a distinctive and unique character. Limited editions and the “Aviator” collection are particularly appreciated by collectors for their bold design and cockpit readability.

Insights into Poljot’s History

The 1930s: The Birth of the Soviet Watch Industry

In 1930, with the construction of the factory in Moscow, watch production began at a brisk pace. The first watches produced still bore the Dueber-Hampden brand, but soon Soviet technicians managed to develop entirely new models. The First Soviet Watch Factory, renamed in 1935 in honor of Sergei Kirov, achieved notable success, producing millions of pocket and wristwatches.

The 1940s: War and Reconstruction

During World War II, the factory was evacuated to Zlatoust to avoid capture by the Germans. During this period, besides producing watches, the factory contributed to the war effort by manufacturing ammunition and other military materials. After the war, in 1946, the factory launched the famous Pobeda model, a symbol of Soviet victory.

The 1950s and 1960s: The Space Era

In the 1950s, Poljot began producing watches for military aviation and Soviet cosmonauts. The Sturmanskie model, worn by Gagarin during his historic space flight, became an icon. With the launch of the first artificial satellite Sputnik in 1957, Poljot celebrated the event with a commemorative watch. Producing automatic watches and chronographs became a priority, leading to the creation of models such as Rodina and Strela.

The 1970s and 1980s: Innovation and Expansion

During the 1970s, Poljot continued to innovate, introducing advanced movements such as the 3133 chronograph. The factory acquired production lines from the Swiss Valjoux, enabling the production of high-quality watches for both military and civilian markets. The 1980s saw an increase in exports, with Poljot becoming an internationally recognized brand.

The Foundation of Volmax and the End of 3133 Production

In the late 1990s, Poljot ceased quartz watch production to focus on high-quality mechanical movements. However, economic difficulties led to the sale of movement production machinery to other companies, including Vostok. In 2002, some discontented employees left Poljot to found Volmax, a company that continues to produce watches under the Aviator, Buran, and Sturmanskie brands.

In 2003, Poljot adopted the name First Moscow Watch Factory, limiting the Poljot brand to the domestic market. Production of the 3133 chronograph movement, a milestone in Poljot’s history, ceased definitively in 2011, marking the end of an era.

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

russian watch Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops

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

Discovering the Watch

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

The Watch

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

russian watch Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops
Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops

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

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

The image consists of three elements:

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

Uncovering the Meaning

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

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

Missile Troops and Artillery: Who Are They?

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

Interesting information I found includes the existence of:

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

Tasks of the Missile Troops and Artillery

The missile troops and artillery are tasked with:

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

Conclusion

It is easy to see how even a simple Vostok Komandirskie can intrigue and lead to unexpected in-depth research. Sometimes the only challenge is navigating the numerous military units present in Russia. The watch was probably commissioned for some celebration or simply made like many others to celebrate the armed forces.

A Vostok with a Very Particular Asymmetric Case

russian watch Vostok Komandirskie asimmetric case

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.

russian watch Vostok Komandirskie asimmetric case
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.

Vostok Komandirskie Export Italy Aviation Badge

soviet watch Vostok Komandirskie Soviet Air Force Emblem

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

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

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

Dial Detail

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

Distribution and Marking

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

Conclusion

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

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

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