poljot

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

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Soviet CCCCP watch

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

Soviet CCCCP watch
Soviet CCCCP

Production and Movements of the Soviet CCCP Watch

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

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

Design and Features of the Soviet CCCP Watch

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

Distribution and Popularity of the Soviet CCCP Watch in Italy

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

Production Hypotheses of the Soviet CCCP Watch

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

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

Conclusion on the Soviet CCCP Watch

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

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

Sources:

History of Poljot: From the First Moscow Watch Factory to Volmax and Maktime

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russian watch Poljot Deluxe automatic

The “history of Poljot” begins with the establishment of the First Moscow Watch Factory (Первый Государственный Часовой Завод) in 1930, a key event within the framework of the first Soviet Five-Year Plan. This plan, launched in 1928, aimed to develop heavy industry and modernise the Soviet economy, and the creation of a state-owned watch factory was a significant part of this effort. On December 21, 1927, the Council of Labour and Defence approved a resolution to organise watch production in the USSR, with the goal of producing watches that were comparable in quality and precision to those from Switzerland and the United States​ (Poljot Watch)​​ (Moscow Watch)​.

Foundation and Early Years

The Birth within the Context of the Five-Year Plan

To achieve this goal, a group of Soviet engineers was sent to the United States to study production techniques. In 1929, the Soviet government purchased machinery and equipment from the Dueber-Hampden Watch Company in Canton, Ohio, and the Ansonia Clock Company in Brooklyn, New York. These machines were transported to Moscow, along with 23 American technicians, to initiate production​ (Caliber Corner)​​ (KaminskyBlog)​.

Initial Production Years

Construction of the factory began in February 1930 and was completed by June of the same year. Official production started on October 1, 1930, with the first 50 pocket watches, known as Type-1 or К-43, based on the Hampden Size 16 calibre. Despite initial difficulties, including a shortage of skilled workers and frequent machinery breakdowns, production rapidly improved thanks to intensive worker training and the establishment of a repair workshop​ (Moscow Watch)​.

Expansion and Development

Dedication to Kirov and Production Growth

In 1935, the factory was renamed in honour of Sergei Kirov, a Bolshevik leader who had been assassinated. This event marked a period of expansion, with production reaching 450,000 pieces per year and the beginning of special watch production for cars and aeroplanes​ (Moscow Watch)​.

Evacuation during World War II

During World War II, the factory was evacuated to Zlatoust due to the advancing German forces. However, part of the equipment was brought back to Moscow in 1943, and the factory resumed production, focusing on wristwatches. This period also marked the beginning of the production of the renowned Pobeda watch​ (KaminskyBlog)​.

The Birth of the Poljot Brand

Name Change and New Models

In 1947, the factory was renamed the First Moscow Watch Factory and started producing the Pobeda wristwatch. In the 1950s, the factory became well-known for numerous innovative models, including the first Soviet automatic watches and special watches for Antarctic expeditions​ (Moscow Watch)​​ (Poljot Watch)​.

Introduction of the Poljot Brand

In 1964, all previous brands were consolidated under the name Poljot, which means “flight” in Russian. Poljot quickly became the flagship brand of the Soviet watch industry, producing historical watches used in important space missions, including those worn by Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space​ (Poljot Watch)​.

Decline and Post-Soviet Transformation

Decline in the 1980s and 1990s

In the 1980s, the quality of Soviet watches began to decline due to economic stagnation and technological difficulties. After the collapse of the USSR in 1991, the Poljot factory was privatised and transformed into a joint-stock company in 1992. However, financial and managerial difficulties continued to plague the company​ (KaminskyBlog)​.

Establishment of Volmax and Maktime

Volmax was founded in 2000 by a group of former Poljot employees. The company focused on producing high-quality watches using historical Poljot designs and movements. Brands such as Aviator, Buran, and Sturmanskie were revived under Volmax, keeping the Russian watchmaking tradition alive​ (Moscow Watch)​​ (KaminskyBlog)​.

Maktime, founded in 1996, acquired machinery and equipment from Poljot, including those necessary to produce the famous calibre 3133. Maktime continued the production of this movement and introduced various exclusive watch models, including skeleton watches with precious metal cases and decorations with precious stones​ (Caliber Corner)​.

Key Brands of the First Moscow Watch Factory

BrandDescription
PoljotMeans “flight” in Russian; introduced in 1964, becoming the main brand for export and domestic markets.
PobedaMeans “victory” in Russian; one of the first watches produced after World War II.
SturmanskieWorn by Yuri Gagarin on his first space flight; means “navigator”.
KirovskieNamed in honour of Sergei Kirov; one of the first brands after the factory’s name change in 1935.
MayakMeans “lighthouse” in Russian; one of the brands used in the 1950s and 1960s.
MoskvaMeans “Moscow” in Russian; used in the 1950s.
RodinaMeans “motherland” in Russian; the first Soviet watch with an automatic winding function.
SportivnieMeans “sporting” in Russian; watches with chronograph functions.
SignalMechanical watches with alarm functions; introduced in the late 1950s.
SputnikCommemorative of the launch of the first artificial satellite; introduced in 1957.
AntarktidaSpecial watches produced for Antarctic expeditions.
KosmosMeans “cosmos” in Russian; commemorative space watches.
OrbitaMeans “orbit” in Russian; one of the brands used for wristwatches.
StrelaMeans “arrow” in Russian; worn by Alexei Leonov during the first spacewalk.
VympelA brand for high-precision watches.
BuranAlso used for more recent models.
AviatorMainly used for aviator watches.

Main Calibres Produced

Mechanical Calibres

  • Calibre 3133: Based on the Valjoux 7734, this is one of the most renowned chronograph movements.
  • Calibre 2612: Mechanical movement with an alarm function.
  • Calibre 2609: Used in Sturmanskie watches.

Quartz Calibres

  • Calibre 2416: Quartz movement used in various Poljot models in the 1980s and 1990s.
  • Calibre 2431: Another quartz movement produced in the later years of Poljot’s operations.

Conclusion

The “history of Poljot” is a journey through decades of technological and historical changes, consistently maintaining the high quality and craftsmanship of Russian watches. The legacy of Poljot continues to live on through the efforts of Volmax and Maktime.

Poljot History: Soviet Watchmaking Excellence

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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.

Vintage Soviet Watches from the 1980s

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Rivista orologi da polso marzo aprile 1989 n9 anno 3 pagina 1

Recently, I had the opportunity to delve into a vintage watch magazine from the late 1980s. The issue in question is “Orologi da Polso,” Year III – No. 9, dating back to March-April 1989, published by Edizioni Studio Zeta of Monza. Among the various articles, one particularly intriguing piece explores the history and influence of vintage Soviet watches from the 1980s and their connections with European countries, including Italy. Below, I present a detailed overview of the article, providing insights into the state of the watch industry during that era, enriched with additional context and information for a comprehensive understanding.

The Soviet Watchmaking Phenomenon

The article begins by highlighting a significant historical context: the Soviet Congress of 1925 aimed for economic self-sufficiency, transitioning from an importer to a producer nation. It was unimaginable a few years prior that vintage Soviet watches from the 1980s would become fashionable, almost a cultural phenomenon.

Russian horology boasts an illustrious history. The Kremlin’s tower clocks, constructed in the early 15th century by Lazar Serbin, and the carillons of the Saviour Tower, restored in the 19th century by the Butenop brothers, are notable examples. Under Tsar Peter the Great, famous French artisans were invited, fostering a watchmaking school in Russia, despite French artisans enjoying greater privileges.

Notable Russian Watchmakers and Collections

The article further mentions Ivan Kulihin, a renowned watchmaker from the 18th century, whose exquisite pieces are housed in the Hermitage Museum in Leningrad and various museums in Moscow. An exhibition in Florence showcased magnificent pieces from the Romanoff collections, revealing the craftsmanship of the Bronnikov family, known for their wooden clocks, and the contributions of watchmakers like Tolstoy and Nosov to mechanical advancements.

The Soviet Watch Industry’s Evolution

Before the October Revolution, parts and mechanisms were imported from Switzerland for assembly in Russia. In the late 19th century, France invested in Tsarist domains, and after World War I, Italy acquired Russian pocket watches, which were later issued to railway personnel.

The Soviet watch industry’s roots date back to the 1930s, evolving significantly by the 1940s, with factories converting to military production during World War II and later returning to civilian manufacturing. The principal Moscow factory, established in 1942, eventually became Vostok, one of the most prominent Soviet watch manufacturers.

Soviet Watches in the 1980s

By the 1980s, over fifteen factories in the USSR specialised in various watch productions, including well-known brands like Chaika, Poljot, Zaria, Paketa, Slava, and Penza. The 1950s marked the beginning of exportation, primarily to Warsaw Pact nations. The article discusses the romantic history of the Mark watch, resembling the Poljot, and its connection to an Italian family.

Italian-Soviet Collaborations and Market Impact

The first significant import of Soviet watches to Italy occurred in the late 1980s, spearheaded by Orazio Occhipinti of Mirabilia di Milano, who distributed Paketa watches. These vintage Soviet watches from the 1980s, known as “raketa” in Russian, saw a surge in popularity, influenced by Gorbachev’s policies and an increasing openness towards Soviet products.

At the Vicenza fair, Mirabilia also presented Poljot watches, featuring mechanical movements and shock-resistant cases. The Vostok brand offered models tailored for different military branches, with manual winding, water resistance up to 10 atmospheres, and luminous hands and indices.

Additionally, Italian-designed watches with Russian mechanisms emerged, like the Soviet, combining Russian quartz movements with Italian aesthetics. The Elmitex company introduced the Perestroika collection, a blend of quartz and mechanical chronographs, at both the Vicenza and Moscow fairs.

Conclusion

This 1989 issue of “Orologi da Polso” provides a fascinating snapshot of Soviet watchmaking during a transformative period. It reflects the blend of historical craftsmanship and modern industrial capabilities, highlighting the Soviet Union’s impact on the global watch market. The Italian perspective, with insights from key figures like Jacopo Marchi and collaborations with Soviet manufacturers, underscores the cross-cultural influences that shaped the horological landscape of the late 20th century.

For further reading, I encourage exploring the complete article and the magazine scans, offering a deeper dive into this captivating era of watchmaking history.

Rivista orologi da polso marzo aprile 1989 n9 anno 3 copertina
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Poljot Khrunichev Space Center Watch: A Tribute to Russian Space History

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Poljot Russian Watch Space Center Khrunichev

Introduction

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

Poljot Russian Watch Space Center Khrunichev
Poljot Space Center Khrunichev

Watch Features

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

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

The Caliber

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

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

Khrunichev Space Center: A Beacon of Russian Space Technology

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

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

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

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

Collecting Russian Watches: A Valuable Addition

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

Dating the Watch

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

Conclusion

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

Discovering the Charm of Soviet and Russian Watch Collections

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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.

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