orologi Vostok Archivi - SOVIETALY™

The Soviet Watch Exporter: TENTO

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi 18 June 202426 June 2024binocular reviews., BPC 20x60, BPC 7x35, international trade, optical instruments, orologi Vostok, Soviet binoculars, Soviet engineering, Soviet exports, Soviet household appliances, Soviet technology, TENTO, vintage binoculars, vintage optics, Vostok watches, ZOMZ 0 Comment

TENTO, a significant name in Soviet manufacturing, was renowned for its high-quality optical instruments, particularly binoculars, and various household appliances. Although initially thought to be involved primarily in watch exports, TENTO’s main focus was on producing and exporting a range of other products that gained international recognition during the 1980s and 1990s.

Origins and Products

TENTO was associated with the Zagorsk Optical-Mechanical Plant (ZOMZ), which began operations in 1935. The company produced a variety of optical devices, including binoculars that were highly regarded for their durability and optical clarity. Popular models like the BPC 7×35 and BPC 20×60 were known for their excellent performance and were widely used both within the Soviet Union and abroad. These binoculars were praised for their robust construction and high-quality optics, making them a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts, bird watchers, and hunters (Optics Trade) (REIBERT.info) (Vplate) (REIBERT.info).

Export Activities

In addition to optical devices, TENTO also exported household appliances, including electric irons, which were known for their reliability and practicality. The brand’s extensive product range and quality manufacturing made its products highly sought after in international markets (CycloWiki) (Реальность против мифологем).

TENTO played a role in exporting Soviet watches, although this was more of a complementary activity. The company helped distribute watches from renowned Soviet brands like Vostok, creating catalogs that showcased a range of timepieces. This activity was reflected in multilingual catalogs written in Russian, English, French, Spanish, and German, indicating the broad international reach of TENTO’s marketing efforts (CycloWiki) (Реальность против мифологем).

International Markets

During the 1980s, the Soviet Union, under the economic restructuring policies of Perestroika, sought to increase its hard currency earnings through the export of various goods, including TENTO’s products. TENTO’s exports reached numerous countries across Europe, Asia, and beyond, facilitated by the Soviet Union’s efforts to engage more deeply with international markets. Countries such as Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and several others were notable destinations for TENTO’s exports (CycloWiki) (Реальность против мифологем).

Conclusion

TENTO’s legacy in producing high-quality binoculars and household appliances, alongside its role in distributing Soviet watches, showcases the breadth of Soviet industrial capabilities. The brand’s products continue to be appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts around the world. As interest in vintage Soviet technology grows, TENTO’s contributions to various fields are increasingly recognized and celebrated.

Vostok Codes: A Complete Guide

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi 11 June 202420 June 2024Amphibia Vostok, casse Vostok, codici Vostok, collezionismo orologi, decifrare codici Vostok, deciphering Vostok codes, Generalskie Vostok, guida Vostok, Komandirskie Vostok, movimenti Vostok, orologeria russa, orologi russi, orologi Vostok, Russian watches, storia orologi Vostok, Vostok cases, Vostok codes, Vostok Generalskie, Vostok guide, Vostok movements, Vostok watch history, Vostok watches, watch collecting 0 Comment

Tabella identificativa dei codici degli orologi Vostok con modelli Amphibia e Komandirskie, diverse forme di casse e materiali, e elementi di sfondo dell'era sovietica e militare.

Vostok watches, produced in Russia, are icons of reliability and robustness in the watchmaking world. Known for their ability to withstand extreme conditions, these watches are cherished by both collectors and enthusiasts. Their history dates back to the Soviet era, during which they were developed to meet the needs of both the military and civilians. In this article, we will explore in detail the identification codes used to describe the movements and cases of Vostok watches. For convenience, the notation ABCDE/FGHIJKH is taken from the site: netgrafik.ch.

Understanding Vostok Watch Codes

Russian/Soviet movement and case codes follow a specific format: ABCDE/FGHIJKH.

ABCDE

AB: Movement diameter in mm.
CD, CDE: Soviet movement specification. For more details, refer to the table at the bottom of the page.

FGH

FGH: Case variation. Each combination of numbers represents a different case design or style.

I

I: Case material. Here are some examples from Vostok models:
- 0: Stainless steel and other metals without plating.
- 1: Chrome plated.
- 2: Gold plated.
- 3: Gilded (at least 5 microns).
- 4: Colour coated.
- 5: Synthetic, polymer, rubber.
- 7: Titanium alloy.
- 9: Glass, crystal, ceramics, marble.

JKH

JKH: Handset. Each combination represents a specific type of hands used on the watch.

Classification of Vostok Cases

The table below categorises the different cases used in Vostok watch models. The information is organised by case code (FGH), case material (I), watch model, and case shape.

Vostok Case Table

Case Code FGH	Material I	Handset Code JKH	Model	Case Material	Case Shape
35	0	XXX	Amphibia	Stainless steel	Tonneau
119	0	XXX	Amphibia	Stainless steel	Octagonal
71	0	XXX	Amphibia	Stainless steel	Octagonal
47	0	XXX	Amphibia	Stainless steel	Carre
32	0	XXX	Amphibia	Stainless steel	Tonneau
937	0	XXX	Amphibia	Stainless steel	Round
96	0	XXX	Amphibia	Stainless steel	Big Lug
25	0	XXX	Amphibia	Stainless steel	Ministry
02	0	XXX	Amphibia	Stainless steel	Round
42	0	XXX	Amphibia	Stainless steel	Round
62	7	XXX	Amphibia	Titanium alloy	Tonneau
38	1	XXX	Komandirskie	Chrome plated	Round
38	3	XXX	Komandirskie	Gold plated	Round
78	1	XXX	Komandirskie	Chrome plated	Round
78	3	XXX	Komandirskie	Gold plated	Round
44	1	XXX	Komandirskie	Chrome plated	Carre
44	3	XXX	Komandirskie	Gold plated	Carre
79	1	XXX	Komandirskie	Chrome plated	Round
79	3	XXX	Komandirskie	Gold plated	Round
139	1	XXX	Komandirskie	Chrome plated	Round
139	3	XXX	Komandirskie	Gold plated	Round
29	1	XXX	Komandirskie	Chrome plated	Round
29	3	XXX	Komandirskie	Gold plated	Round
34	1	XXX	Komandirskie	Chrome plated	Carre
34	9	XXX	Komandirskie	TiN	Carre
33	1	XXX	Komandirskie	Chrome plated	Tonneau
33	9	XXX	Komandirskie	TiN	Tonneau
09	1	XXX	Generalskie	Chrome plated	Round

Case Materials

Vostok watch cases are made from various materials, each with its own durability and aesthetic characteristics:

Stainless Steel (0): Offers exceptional resistance to corrosion and long durability. It is the predominant material for Amphibia models, known for their robustness.
Chrome Plated (1): Primarily used in Komandirskie models, providing a shiny finish and good corrosion resistance.
Gold Plated (3): Found in some Komandirskie models, giving a luxurious and refined appearance.
Titanium Alloy (7): Lightweight and highly resistant, used in models like the Amphibia for increased durability.
TiN (Titanium Nitride) (9): Known for its extreme hardness and scratch resistance, providing a distinctive golden finish.

Case Shapes

Vostok watch cases come in various shapes, each with a unique design to suit different tastes and aesthetic preferences:

Tonneau: An elegant, barrel-shaped design.
Octagonal: An eight-sided design often associated with robustness.
Carre: A square or rectangular shape offering a classic look.
Round: The most common and versatile shape, suitable for any style.

Main Models

Amphibia: Famous for their water resistance and robust construction, these watches feature cases in stainless steel or titanium alloy. Originally designed for the Soviet naval forces, they have become popular among divers and adventurers.
Komandirskie: Inspired by military style, these watches, though not officially used by the military, are available in chrome plated, gold plated, and TiN versions. They are known for their classic design and reliability.
Generalskie: These watches also feature a military-inspired style but lack evidence of official military use. They often include models with chrome plated cases.

Conclusion

Vostok watches perfectly combine history, engineering, and design. The diversity of cases, in terms of materials, models, and shapes, offers enthusiasts a wide range of choices. Whether you are a collector or simply a watch lover, Vostok models with their unique characteristics and reliability make an excellent choice. Their history and continuous evolution make them a fascinating topic for anyone interested in horology.

Central Military Aviation Research Hospital: 50 Years of Excellence in Aerospace and Aeronautical Medicine

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi 6 January 202125 June 2024aerospace medicine, Central Military Aviation Research Hospital, collezionismo orologi, commemorative watches, orologi Vostok, Soviet space program, TiN, Vostok 2414A movement, Vostok Komandirskie, Vostok watches, watch collecting, Yuri Gagarin 0 Comment

russian watch Vostok Komandirskie Central Research Aviation Hospital

A classic Vostok Komandirskie with a TiN-finished case immediately caught my attention, primarily due to the uniqueness of its dial and also because, despite not particularly liking gold-finished watches, this one is decidedly appealing. The white dial probably balances the overall design well.

Determining the Production Date of the Watch

One of the key questions concerns the production date of the commemorative watch. Considering the 50th anniversary of the Central Military Aviation Research Hospital, the production date can be set around 1992. This calculation is based on the fact that the hospital was founded in 1942, making 1992 the 50th anniversary year. The lack of any reference to the USSR or Russia on the dial further supports this hypothesis, suggesting that the watch was commissioned and produced during the post-Soviet transition period.

The Commemorative Vostok Komandirskie

The Vostok Komandirskie created for the 50th anniversary of the Central Military Aviation Research Hospital is a unique and meaningful watch. Its distinctive aesthetics and build quality make it a coveted piece for collectors.

Watch Description

Case: The case is made of brass coated with titanium nitride (TiN), a material known for its resistance and durability. This gives the watch a golden yet robust appearance.
Dial: The white dial features raised gold indices that add a touch of elegance. In the center, the red number 50 stands out, surrounded by significant symbols such as the Bowl of Hygieia, a military aircraft, and a Soyuz rocket. The blue wings flanking the number 50 represent flight and aviation.
Hands: The gold hands, with a red second hand, harmonize perfectly with the dial, facilitating easy time reading.
Caseback: The stainless steel caseback features a rising sun theme and lacks serial numbers, adding a touch of uniqueness.

Technical Specifications of the Watch

Movement: The watch is equipped with the reliable and precise Vostok 2414A movement. This manual wind mechanical movement is a classic of the Komandirskie series.
Functions: The watch provides hour, minute, second, and date functions, with a clean and well-organized dial.

Explore technical details: Vostok 2414A Movement

A Piece of History on the Wrist

Owning this watch means carrying a piece of history. Every detail, from the dial to the case, tells the story of the hospital and the Soviet space program. The watch is not just a timepiece but a tribute to decades of innovation and dedication in aerospace medicine.

The History of the Central Military Aviation Research Hospital

Founded on May 7, 1942, by the Russian Ministry of Defense, the Central Military Aviation Research Hospital has played a crucial role in military and aerospace medicine. Originally created to support the medical needs of aviation during World War II, the hospital underwent several reorganizations and name changes over the years.

A Turning Point: The Connection with Yuri Gagarin and the Soviet Space Program

In 1959, the hospital began selecting and supporting the first Soviet cosmonauts, including Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space. This connection with the Soviet space program was a turning point in the hospital’s history. Gagarin and his colleagues underwent rigorous medical examinations and intensive training to prepare for space flight (Yuri Gagarin on Wikipedia, Soviet Space Program).

The hospital became synonymous with excellence in aerospace medicine, directly contributing to the successes of the Soviet space program. The medical examinations and support provided to the cosmonauts were crucial in ensuring their physical and mental fitness for space missions.

Explore the hospital’s history: ПроДокторов, Military Encyclopedia

Conclusions

The commemorative Vostok Komandirskie watch is a true gem for collectors and history enthusiasts. Its connection to the Central Military Aviation Research Hospital and the Soviet space program makes it unique and fascinating. A piece that celebrates 50 years of excellence and significant contributions to medicine and space exploration.

Further exploration: Central Military Aviation Research Hospital, Vostok Watches Details