Translation and Analysis of the Soviet Watch Passport

Fronte del passaporto di un orologio sovietico Vostok Amphibia con movimento 2409A.

Introduzione

In the vast world of Soviet watches, each model possesses its own “passport,” a fundamental document that accompanies the watch and provides technical details, usage instructions, and warranty information. However, there are different models of passports depending on the brand and model of the watch. In this article, we will analyze the various parts of the passports of some iconic models such as the Vostok Amphibia, Molnija, and Zaria, providing transcriptions and translations to facilitate understanding.

Each passport is composed of two sides, each of which is divided into 4 or 5 sections. We will proceed with a detailed analysis of each side, illustrating the main parts, providing Cyrillic transcriptions and corresponding English translations. At the end of the transcription and translation of both sides, I will provide a discursive explanation of the content and use of the passport. Additionally, some codes and technical details will be linked to other articles on my blog for further insights.


Vostok Amphibia – 2409A

Fronte

Top Left Section

Transcription:
Чистопольский часовой завод
422950, ТССР г. Чистополь, ул. Энгельса, 127.

ТАЛОН № 1
на гарантийный ремонт часов наручных механических
«ВОСТОК-АМФИБИЯ» 2409А
в течение гарантийного срока

Проданы магазином (наименование торг.) _________
Штамп магазина ________________ 19___г.

Выполненные работы по устранению недостатков:
(подпись) ____________ (дата) _______________

Владелец _______________ (подпись) _______________

Утверждаю:
Зав. ателье ___________ (подпись) ____________

Штамп (наимен. бытового пред.) _______________
Дата _______________ 19___г. (подпись) ____________

Translation:
Chistopol Watch Factory
422950, TSSR, Chistopol, Engels Street, 127.

COUPON № 1
for warranty repair of mechanical wristwatches
«VOSTOK-AMPHIBIA» 2409A
during the warranty period

Sold by store (trade name) _________
Store stamp ________________ 19___year

Work performed to correct deficiencies:
(signature) ____________ (date) _______________

Owner _______________ (signature) _______________

Approved by:
Head of workshop ___________ (signature) ____________

Stamp (name of household appliance) _______________
Date _______________ 19___year (signature) ____________

Top Center Section

Transcription:
Чистопольский часовой завод «ВОСТОК»
ПАСПОРТ
на часы наручные механические «ВОСТОК-АМФИБИЯ» 2409А
ТУ 25.07.1347-77

Дата продажи
Штамп магазина

КОМПЛЕКТ ПОСТАВКИ
Часы – 1 шт.
Паспорт – 1 экз.
Индивидуальная упаковка – 1 шт.

СВИДЕТЕЛЬСТВО О ПРИЕМКЕ
Часы наручные механические «Восток-Амфибия» соотвествуют требованиям ТУ 25-07.1347-77 и признаны годными для эксплуатации.

Translation:
Chistopol Watch Factory «VOSTOK»
PASSPORT
for mechanical wristwatches «VOSTOK-AMPHIBIA» 2409A
TU 25.07.1347-77

Date of sale
Store stamp

DELIVERY SET
Watch – 1 piece
Passport – 1 copy
Individual packaging – 1 piece

CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE
The mechanical wristwatch «Vostok-Amphibia» meets the requirements of TU 25-07.1347-77 and is deemed suitable for use.

Technical Data and Instructions

Transcription:
ТЕХНИЧЕСКИЕ ДАННЫЕ
Класс точности – 1.
Средний суточный ход часов при температуре (20±5)°С в пределах от минус 20 до плюс 40 с/сут.
Число функциональных камней – 17.
Продолжительность действия часов от одной полной заводки пружины не менее 40 час.
Максимальная глубина погружения часов в воду не более 200 м.
Средний полный срок службы часов – 10 лет.
Часы “Восток-Амфибия” с централизованной секундной стрелкой.
Часы в водопроницаемом корпусе из нержавеющей стали, подверженные магнитным полям напряженностью 480±60 А/м.

ИНСТРУКЦИИ ПО ЭКСПЛУАТАЦИИ
Перед эксплуатацией часов, внимательно прочтите инструкцию. Часы предназначены для эксплуатации в пресной и соленой воде, в общем и грязной воде.
Для завода часов, отвинтите заводную головку и немного вытяните ее в сторону направления стрелки.
Для перевода стрелок, вытяните заводную головку в сторону и поверните ее в направлении стрелок до необходимого времени. Поверните заводную головку в исходное положение и полностью заверните.
Для завода часов, поверните заводную головку в обратном направлении до упора. Сверните заводную головку до конца.

Обращайте внимание, что вокруг заводной головки всегда есть кольцо воды.

Translation:
TECHNICAL DATA
Accuracy class – 1.
The average daily variation of the watch at a temperature of (20±5)°C ranges from -20 to +40 sec/day.
Number of functional rubies – 17.
Duration of operation of the watch with one full wind of the spring is at least 40 hours.
Maximum diving depth of the watch is no more than 200 m.
Average total service life of the watch is 10 years.
“Vostok-Amphibia” watches with a centralized second hand.
Watches in a waterproof case made of stainless steel, resistant to magnetic fields with an intensity of 480±60 A/m.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE
Before using the watch, carefully read the instructions. The watch is designed for use in fresh and salt water, in general and dirty water.
To wind the watch, unscrew the crown and pull it slightly in the direction of the arrow.
To set the hands, pull the crown out and turn it in the direction of the hands until the desired time. Return the crown to its original position and tighten it completely.
To wind the watch, turn the crown in the opposite direction until it stops. Screw the crown completely.

Note that there is always a ring of water around the crown.

Top Right Section

Transcription:
Чистопольский часовой завод
422950, ТССР г. Чистополь, ул. Энгельса, 127.

ТАЛОН № 2
на гарантийный ремонт часов наручных механических
«ВОСТОК-АМФИБИЯ» 2409А
в течение гарантийного срока

Проданы магазином (наименование торг.) _________
Штамп магазина ________________ 19___г.

Выполненные работы по устранению недостатков:
(подпись) ____________ (дата) _______________

Владелец _______________ (подпись) _______________

Утверждаю:
Зав. ателье ___________ (подпись) ____________

Штамп (наимен. бытового пред.) _______________
Дата _______________ 19___г. (подпись) ____________

Translation:
Chistopol Watch Factory
422950, TSSR, Chistopol, Engels Street, 127.

COUPON № 2
for warranty repair of mechanical wristwatches
«VOSTOK-AMPHIBIA» 2409A
during the warranty period

Sold by store (trade name) _________
Store stamp ________________ 19___year

Work performed to correct deficiencies:
(signature) ____________ (date) _______________

Owner _______________ (signature) _______________

Approved by:
Head of workshop ___________ (signature) ____________

Stamp (name of household appliance) _______________
Date _______________ 19___year (signature) ____________

Bottom Section

Transcription:
Шифр внешнего оформления
Номер участка (бригад)
Дата выпуска
Шифр внешнего оформления
Номер участка (бригад)
Номер часов
Дата выпуска
Покрытие корпуса
золота серебра – Содержание драгоценных метал., г.
Свободная розничная цена
Артикул
КОД ОКД
Шифр внешнего оформления
Номер участка (бригад)
Дата выпуска

Translation:
External finish code
Site number (brigade)
Release date
External finish code
Site number (brigade)
Watch number
Release date
Case coating
gold silver – Precious metal content, g.
Retail price
Article
OKD code
External finish code
Site number (brigade)
Release date


Retro

Back of Passport – Block 1

Transcription:
Дает право на бесплатный гарантий-
ный ремонт часов в течение гарантий-
ного срока.

Виды работ поддержуки:
1. Разборка и промывка механизма с
заменой деталей и узлов
2. Разборка и промывка механизма без
замены деталей и узлов.

При отрыве талона мастерская ставит
на паспорте штамп и дату, что дает
право потребителю в случае некачествен-
но выполненных работ на повторное бес-
платное исправление часов в той же ма-
стерской.

При отправке часов в гарантийную ма-
стерскую часового завода почтовой по-
сылкой потребитель должен кратко опи-
сать причину, по которой он направляет
часы, и приложить справку гарантийной
мастерской. Посылку следует отправлять
без “наложенного платежа”.

Владелец и его адрес

Подпись

Translation:
Entitles to free warranty
repair of watches during the warranty
period.

Types of supported work:
1. Disassembly and washing of the mechanism with
replacement of parts and units
2. Disassembly and washing of the mechanism without
replacement of parts and units.

When detaching the coupon, the workshop places
a stamp and date on the passport, which gives
the consumer the right, in case of poorly
performed work, to a free correction of the watch in the same
workshop.

When sending the watch to the warranty
workshop of the factory by mail, the consumer must briefly
describe the reason for sending the watch and attach the
warranty workshop certificate. The package should be sent
without “cash on delivery”.

Owner and address

Signature

Back of Passport – Block 2

Transcription:
—переведите стрелки вращением головки, после установки
стрелок головку заверните.
Для замера времени в пределах часа началу шкалы пово-
ротного ранта совместите с минутной стрелкой и отсчет веди-
те по шкале ранта.
Для сохранения свечения светосостава не подвергайте ци-
ферблат длительному воздействию солнечных лучей.
Для надежного функционирования часов соблюдайте сле-
дующие правила:
— оберегайте часы от падения, резких ударов, от воздействия
химических продуктов;
— не открывайте корпус часов во избежание попадания пыли
и грязи в механизм;
— при отвинчивания заводной головки убедитесь в отсутствии
капель воды вокруг неё;
— не отвинчивайте заводную головку часом, находящихся в
воде;
— перед погружением в воду убедитесь, что заводная головка
полностью завернута.
Часы рассчитаны на долговечный срок службы с периодиче-
ской чисткой, смазкой и регулировкой, не реже одного раза
в три года в послегарантийный период эксплуатации.

Translation:
—Set the hands by turning the crown, after setting
the hands, tighten the crown.
To measure the time within an hour, align the start of the scale of the
rotating bezel with the minute hand and count according to the bezel scale.
To preserve the luminescence of the luminescent composition, do not expose the
dial to direct sunlight for a long time.
For reliable operation of the watch, follow these
rules:
— protect the watch from drops, sharp impacts, and exposure to
chemical products;
— do not open the case of the watch to avoid getting dust and
dirt into the mechanism;
— when unscrewing the crown, make sure there are no
water drops around it;
— do not unscrew the crown while the watch is in
water;
— before immersing in water, make sure the crown
is fully tightened.
The watch is designed for a long service life with periodic
cleaning, lubrication, and adjustment, at least once
every three years during the post-warranty period of use.

Back of Passport – Block 3

Transcription:
ГАРАНТИЙНЫЕ ОБЯЗАТЕЛЬСТВА

Гарантийный срок эксплуатации часов — 1 год со дня про-
дажи через розничную торговую сеть.
Гарантия не распространяется на часы:
без паспорта;
с истекшим сроком гарантии;
с нарушением правил эксплуатации, указанных в настоя-
щем паспорте.
Адрес гарантийной мастерской завода: 422950, ТССР,
г. Чистополь, ул. Энгельса, 127, часовой завод.
Не качественные часы обмениваются в магазине согласно
«Правилам обмена промышленных товаров».

Translation:
WARRANTY OBLIGATIONS

The warranty period of the watch is 1 year from the date of
sale through the retail network.
The warranty does not apply to watches:
without a passport;
with an expired warranty period;
with violations of the operating rules indicated in the
passport.
Address of the factory warranty workshop: 422950, TSSR,
Chistopol, Engels Street, 127, watch factory.
Defective watches are exchanged in the store according to the
«Rules for the exchange of industrial goods».

Back of Passport – Block 4

Transcription:
Дает право на бесплатный гарантий-
ный ремонт часов при котором произво-
дятся работы без разборки механизма.

Владелец и его адрес:

Подпись

ЛИНИЯ ОТРЕЗА
Требуйте при изъятии талона заполнения корешка

Translation:
Entitles to free warranty
repair of watches during which
work is carried out without disassembling the mechanism.

Owner and address:

Signature

LINE OF CUTTING
Require the completion of the stub when removing the coupon


Front of the Passport

Basic Information and Warranty: The passport begins with basic information about the Chistopol watch factory, providing the complete address. The watch model, “Vostok-Amphibia” caliber 2409A, is specified, and the date of sale is indicated with the shop stamp and the owner’s signature.

Technical Data: The technical characteristics of the watch are listed, including the accuracy class, the average daily variation, the number of functional rubies, and the duration of operation with a full wind. Additionally, the maximum diving depth and the total service life of the watch are indicated.

Usage Instructions: The instructions explain how to properly use the watch, including how to wind it, set the hands, and ensure the crown is securely screwed before immersion in water. The importance of avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight to preserve the dial’s luminosity is emphasized.

Bottom Section: The bottom section of the passport contains various codes and numbers related to the external finish, site number, release date, watch number, case coating, precious metal content, retail price, and item number.

Back of the Passport

Warranty Obligations: The back of the passport begins with a section dedicated to warranty obligations. It specifies that during the warranty period, the watch is repaired free of charge by presenting the manufacturer’s workshop certificate, the commercial organization’s stamp, the date of sale, and the owner’s signature. However, the warranty does not cover the glass, strap, bracelet, case (metal), and mechanisms damaged by shocks or other defects caused by the consumer.

Warranty Conditions: It is reiterated that the warranty period is 1 year from the date of sale through the retail network. The warranty does not apply to watches without a passport, with an expired warranty period, or with violations of the usage rules indicated in the passport. The address of the manufacturer’s warranty workshop is provided for any repairs.

Repair Guidelines: The document continues with repair guidelines, specifying that the free repair covers work without disassembling the mechanism. The owner is asked to properly fill out the stub when removed and to ensure no water droplets around the crown when unscrewed.

Final Notes: Finally, the passport concludes with a reminder to require the completion of the stub when removed and the owner’s signature.


Continua….

Vostok Faded Dial: Causes and Appeal of Soviet Watch Dials

Orologio Komandirskie con quadrante craquelé e colore virato.

The faded dials of Soviet watches, such as the famous Vostok, are a fascinating phenomenon for both collectors and watch enthusiasts. This article explores the chemical and physical causes behind the colour changes of the dials and delves into the craquelé effect, also known as spidering. Additionally, it provides a specific focus on red pigments and their instability.

What is a Faded Dial?

A faded dial is one that has undergone a colour change over time. This phenomenon is particularly evident in the dials of vintage watches, including Soviet models like Vostok. Faded dials are appreciated for their unique appearance and historical charm, often considered signs of authenticity and character.

Nitrocellulose and Colour Changes

Chemical Composition of Nitrocellulose

Nitrocellulose is a polymer obtained through the nitration of cellulose, a process involving the use of nitric acid and sulphuric acid. The chemical reaction replaces the hydroxyl groups in cellulose with nitro groups, creating a highly flammable and versatile compound historically used in lacquers and varnishes for watch dials.

Properties of Nitrocellulose

Nitrocellulose is porous, allowing oxygen and moisture to penetrate the applied film, leading to the oxidation of the underlying metal. This is one of the primary reasons why watch dials can change colour over time, developing what is commonly called “patina”​ (BEYOND THE DIAL)​.

Use in Watch Dials

In watch dials, nitrocellulose has been used to create glossy and protective coatings. However, over time, exposure to UV light, oxygen, and moisture leads to the oxidation of underlying materials and the degradation of the varnish itself. This process can cause the varnish to yellow and create an aged appearance, highly appreciated by collectors​ (BEYOND THE DIAL)​​ (WatchUSeek Watch Forums)​.

The Craquelé or Spider Effect

Another common defect in vintage watch dials is the craquelé or spider effect. This phenomenon manifests as cracks resembling a spider web and occurs primarily due to defects in the glossy coatings applied to the dials. These cracks form as a result of environmental stressors such as temperature variations and humidity, making each dial unique​ (SwissWatchExpo)​.

The Disappearance of Red Colour

A specific phenomenon observed in Vostok watch dials is the disappearance of the red colour. This occurs because the organic red pigments used in the paints were not very UV-resistant. Red paints were often composed of “lake pigments”, pigments formed from an organic dye fixed on an inorganic base, such as calcium salt. These pigments were not stable and tended to fade more quickly than other colours when exposed to sunlight​ (WatchUSeek Watch Forums)​.

Examples of Faded Dials in Vostok Watches

Vostok Komandirskie and Amphibia

The Vostok Komandirskie and Amphibia models are classic examples of Soviet watches featuring faded dials. The Komandirskie, known for its durability and water resistance, and the Amphibia, Russia’s first reliable dive watch, are both celebrated for their unique and variable dials. These watches, produced by the Chistopol Watch Factory, are valued for their robustness and iconic design​ (Vintage Watch Inc)​​ (Hodinkee)​.

Conclusion

The faded dials of Vostok watches represent a fascinating example of how materials and environmental conditions can interact to create unique and historically significant pieces. Nitrocellulose, with its porosity and susceptibility to oxidation, plays a crucial role in these changes, while defects like craquelé add further character and value. Although red pigments are the first to disappear, leaving clear signs of the passage of time, these defects are now celebrated as marks of authenticity and charm.

For further insights and to discover more models of Soviet watches with faded dials, visit specialised forums and online resources dedicated to vintage watch collecting.


Sources:

Precision of Russian Watches: An In-Depth Analysis

Precision of Russian Watches: An In-Depth Analysis

Introduction The precision of Russian watches is a fascinating topic for many watch enthusiasts. Often, people wonder how accurate they are compared to their Swiss counterparts. This article explores the precision of Russian watches, debunking myths and providing concrete data for enthusiasts and collectors.

Orologio sovietico raketa con marchio GOST

Historical Context and C.O.S.C. To understand the precision of Russian watches, it is useful to start with the reference parameters of Swiss precision. The C.O.S.C. (Controle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres) is the Swiss body that certifies the precision of watch movements. Founded in 1973, this institution measures the precision of movements with a tolerance of -4/+6 seconds per day.

Learn more about C.O.S.C.

The Soviet Quality Mark: GOST In the Soviet Union, the quality mark for industrial products, including watches, was “ГOСT” (GOST). Established in 1967, it certified products based on strict standards, with a particular focus on the final product rather than the production process.

Discover more about GOST

Marchio sovietico di qualità GOST

Precision of Russian Watches Russian calibers, such as the Vostok 2414A, have a declared precision of -20/+40 seconds per day at a temperature of 20°C (+/- 5°C). This range may seem broad compared to Swiss standards, but many enthusiasts find that individual pieces can exceed these expectations with proper maintenance and adjustments.

Details on Vostok Calibers

Dettaglio del passaporto di un orologio russo in cui viene indicata la precisione

Factors Influencing Precision Several factors can influence the precision of a Russian watch: the manufacturing plant, the production period, and the conditions of use. Russian watches are known for their robustness and longevity, with a recommended service interval of at least ten years.

Maintenance and Adjustment To keep a Russian watch in good condition, periodic service and precise adjustments are essential. A timegrapher can be a useful tool for monitoring accuracy and making necessary adjustments.

Guide to Using a Timegrapher

dettaglio dello schermo di un cronocomparatore per la misura della precisione degli orologi russi

Conclusions Although they do not always reach the precision of Swiss chronometers, Russian watches offer a unique combination of robustness, history, and charm. They are ideal for collectors who appreciate variety and robust engineering.

Useful Links for Further Reading

  1. Russian Watches Forum
  2. Discussion on Soviet Watches
  3. History of Vostok Watches
  4. Comparison of Watch Precision
  5. Mechanical Watch Maintenance
  6. GOST and Soviet Standards
  7. Timegrapher and Adjustment
  8. Vostok 2414A Caliber

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

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!

Discovering the Charm of Soviet and Russian Watch Collections

Ritaglio schermata pagina Lancette Sovietiche Collezionare Sovietaly intervista

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.

Ritaglio schermata pagina Lancette Sovietiche Collezionare Sovietaly intervista
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.

Discover the Rare Vostok Buran Watch: A Tribute to Soviet Polar Aviation

Primo piano di un orologio Vostok Buran celebrativo della Polar Aviation sovietica. Proprietà di Sovietaly.

Three Penguins and a Polar Bear on the Dial of a Vostok Buran

Introduction

Today, I am wearing an intriguing watch from the USSR, which I believe is often overlooked, particularly in Italy, due to a lack of understanding of its historical significance. While many theories about this watch can be found online, few are based on solid evidence. The watch in question is the Vostok Buran, dedicated to Soviet Polar Aviation.

You can view some fascinating images from the historical archive of Russian Aeroflot here.

The Dial of the Polar Aviation Watch

The dial of this watch is divided into two distinct areas:

soviet watch Vostok Polar aviation

Vostok Polar Aviation

At the top, there is a blue semicircle with the Cyrillic inscription “БУРАН” (Buran, meaning blizzard). Inside this semicircle, there is a depiction of a polar bear, an animal native to the northern hemisphere and the North Pole.

Three Penguins

At the bottom, there are three penguins, which are typical of the southern hemisphere and the South Pole. Alongside the penguins is the logo that currently represents Aeroflot.

Today, Polar Aviation is considered a subsidiary of Aeroflot, and its services are carried out under a unified brand.

Photographic Evidence of Polar Aviation

Historical Context

Established in 1934, Soviet Polar Aviation remained active until 1970. It serviced all polar routes to and from the most remote countries and scientific stations located in the Arctic regions of the planet.

Many intriguing details about this period can be found here. Unfortunately, the history of Polar Aviation is marked by numerous accidents and disasters.

Service to Arctic Islands

Polar Aviation also served many Arctic islands, providing crucial services such as mail, medicines, and food supplies to the island inhabitants.

A particularly interesting website, albeit in Russian, provides insights into the life on Dickson Island. Thanks to Google Translate, you can explore the historical photos showing Soviet Polar Aviation planes and helicopters here.

The Watch Itself

The Vostok Buran watch is well-crafted and comfortable to wear. It was primarily released for the Italian market, identifiable by the typical case back and the high-quality leather strap marked in several places. This watch deserves a prominent place in any Russian watch enthusiast’s collection.

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