The Mystery of the Vostok Komandirskie: Commemorating the 70th Anniversary of the Volkhov Hydroelectric Plant or Related to the Oil Industry?

russian watch Vostok Komandirskie

The Vostok Komandirskie watch, with its enigmatic dial, has sparked curiosity and various hypotheses over time. This article explores two main theories regarding the meaning behind the dial.

russian watch Vostok Komandirskie
Vostok Komandirskie

Theory 1: The Volkhov Hydroelectric Plant

The first theory suggests that the watch was commissioned to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Volkhov Hydroelectric Plant.

In the center of the watch dial, there is an image resembling a diaphragm, a propeller, or more likely, a Francis turbine, commonly used in the early 20th century for low-pressure applications. This type of turbine is ideal for the technology of the time and fits the historical context.

The Volkhov Hydroelectric Plant, the first hydroelectric power plant built according to the GOELRO plan, was put into operation in 1926. Celebrating its 70th anniversary in 1986 aligns well with the production period of the Vostok Komandirskie watch.

Fotografia della celebrazione del 70° anniversario della centrale idroelettrica di Volkhov, dicembre 1996.
Fotografia della serata di gala dedicata al 70° anniversario della centrale idroelettrica di Volkhov. Una lettera di ringraziamento viene presentata a un dipendente della centrale dal sindaco della città di Volkhov, Volchkova N.M. Fonte: union.lenoblmus.ru.

In 2016, to mark the 90th anniversary of the plant, a monument featuring a turbine was unveiled outside the plant. Here are photos of the monument and the plaque translation:

Monument in honor of the builders and power engineers of the Volkhov Hydroelectric Power Plant.
Monument in honor of the builders and power engineers of the Volkhov Hydroelectric Power Plant. The plaque reads: “Monumento in onore dei costruttori e degli ingegneri energetici della centrale idroelettrica di Volkhov. Volkhovskaya HPP – la prima centrale idroelettrica costruita secondo il piano GOELRO, messa in funzione nel 1926.
Detail of the plaque on the monument honoring the builders and power engineers of the Volkhov Hydroelectric Power Plant.
Detail of the plaque on the monument honoring the builders and power engineers of the Volkhov Hydroelectric Power Plant. The plaque reads: “Монумент в честь строителей и энергетиков Волховской ГЭС. Волховская ГЭС – первая гидроэлектростанция, построенная по плану ГОЭЛРО, введена в эксплуатацию в 1926 году.

Translation of the plaque: “Monument in honor of the builders and energy engineers of the Volkhov Hydroelectric Plant. Volkhovskaya HPP – the first hydroelectric power station built according to the GOELRO plan, put into operation in 1926.”

Theory 2: The Oil Industry Connection

Another plausible theory, discussed in detail on the cccp-forum.it by users cuoccimix, zvezda, DaniLao, fiurdesoca, Cane, Trash, and robyvintage, suggests that the watch might be related to the oil industry.

This theory posits that the symbol on the dial represents a component used in oil extraction. Fiurdesoca shared a photo of a commemorative watch featuring a similar turbine symbol, along with the text “ЦБПО ЭПУ,” suggesting a connection to oil drilling. The watch has a stylized drilling rig and the dates 1985-1995, with the name of the city Langepas, indicating a link to the oil industry.

Description of fiurdesoca’s watch: This commemorative watch has a dial depicting a stylized drilling rig with the dates 1985-1995 and the name Langepas. The text on the dial, “ЦБПО ЭПУ,” translates to “Central Bureau of Production Services for Electrical Submersible Installations,” pointing towards an oil industry connection.

Close-up of a commemorative watch with the inscription "ЦБПО ЭПУ", "1985 1995", and "г. Лангепас". Image property of fiurdesoca.
Close-up of a commemorative watch celebrating 10 years (1985-1995) of ЦБПО ЭПУ in Лангепас. Image property of fiurdesoca.

About ЦБПО ЭПУ: The Central Bureau of Production Services for Electrical Submersible Installations (ЦБПО ЭПУ) is a company located in Surgut, part of the OJSC “Surgutneftgas” group, one of the largest oil companies in Russia. The company specializes in the maintenance and repair of electric centrifugal pumps used primarily in the oil industry.

Founded to provide technical services and support for extraction operations, ЦБПО ЭПУ engages in a wide range of activities, including the assembly and disassembly of electric pump installations, management of control stations, and repair of electrical equipment. These devices are crucial for the operation of extraction and management of natural resources like oil and gas.

The company has participated in various meetings and conferences with other industry companies, focusing on topics such as industrial safety, equipment maintenance, and operational efficiency of installations. For example, in a recent meeting in Neftekumsk, themes like workplace safety, pump maintenance, and resource management were discussed.

Employee reviews of ЦБПО ЭПУ are mixed, with some criticisms regarding internal management and working conditions. However, the company remains a key player in the oil industry services sector, significantly contributing to the maintenance and operation of critical infrastructure in Russia.

Without conclusive evidence, both theories remain viable. Future discoveries and further information may validate or refute these hypotheses.

Baikonur Azia-TV Poljot Watch: An Iconic and Mysterious Timepiece

russian watch Poljot Baiukonur Azia-TV

Introduction

The Baikonur Azia-TV Poljot watch is an iconic piece celebrating Soviet space achievements. With its unique design and historical significance, it is highly sought after by collectors. This article explores the watch’s technical details, the history of AZIA-TV, and the context where these elements intersect.

russian watch Poljot Baiukonur Azia-TV
Poljot Baiukonur Azia-TV

Technical Details of the Watch

  • Movement: Poljot 2614.2H
  • Diameter: 34mm
  • Functions: Date indicator
  • Design: Black dial with a red star and Yuri Gagarin’s image

Produced between the late 1980s and early 1990s, this watch pays tribute to Soviet space missions, referencing the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan.

The History of AZIA-TV

“АЗИЯ-ТВ” (AZIA-TV) was a television company operating in Kazakhstan in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Based in Almaty, it was part of a broader movement of independent broadcasters like “Otrar” and “Dala”. These channels played a crucial role in diversifying Kazakhstan’s post-Soviet media landscape, offering a variety of content including news, cultural programs, and entertainment.

Connections with Baikonur

Baikonur is renowned for its cosmodrome, the launch site for numerous Soviet space missions. While there are no direct references to specific collaborations between AZIA-TV and Baikonur, it is plausible that the channel featured content related to space activities due to regional ties and the cosmodrome’s importance.

Development of the Television Industry in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan’s television industry began developing in the 1950s, with significant growth in the following decades. By the 1980s, television broadcasting had expanded considerably, offering mixed programming in Kazakh and Russian. The emergence of independent broadcasters like AZIA-TV marked an important shift towards a more diverse national media landscape.

Conclusion

The Baikonur Azia-TV Poljot watch is more than just a timepiece; it is a piece of history celebrating Soviet space achievements and the dynamic post-Soviet media landscape in Kazakhstan. This makes the watch of great interest to both collectors and history enthusiasts.

Raketa Zero KGB: A Watch Between History and Hindu Symbolism

russian watch Raketa KGB Cosmogony

The Raketa Zero KGB watch is not just a functional object but also a vehicle of deep symbolic meanings. Let’s first examine its technical characteristics and then the symbols on its dial and their meanings.

Characteristics of the Watch

The Raketa Zero KGB is an example of a Soviet watch with a chromed brass case. Here are some of its main specifications:

  • Case: Chromed brass, giving it a robust yet elegant appearance.
  • Movement: The Raketa Zero KGB is powered by the 2609 caliber, a manual mechanical movement known for its reliability and simplicity.
  • Dial: The dial features three elephants supporting a grassy platform with a stylized representation of the Moscow Kremlin and the Cyrillic inscription “KGB” underneath them.
  • Functions: Time-only, without additional complications.

Link for further reading on the 2609 caliber:

The Dial of the Raketa Zero KGB

The dial of the Raketa Zero KGB is rich with symbols that tell a complex and fascinating story.

The Elephants

In Indian mythology, as well as in other cultures, elephants are often depicted as creatures of great strength and stability. They are associated with wisdom, power, and longevity. In Hindu cosmology, the Akupāra myth describes a turtle supporting four elephants, which in turn support the world. This symbolism is rich in meanings:

  • Stability and Strength: The elephants represent the solid foundation on which the world rests, symbolizing the stability and strength necessary to support large structures or concepts.
  • Sustainability and Support: The presence of the elephants suggests robust and reliable support, qualities reflected in the vital functions of institutions or nations.

Further reading:

The Kremlin

The Moscow Kremlin is a powerful symbol of Russia. It not only represents the center of political and military power but is also a cultural and historical symbol:

  • Political Power: As the seat of the Russian government, the Kremlin symbolizes authority and control.
  • National Identity: It represents the continuity and history of Russia, evoking images of greatness and national pride.

Further reading:

The “KGB” Inscription

The KGB (Комитет государственной безопасности) was the main security service of the Soviet Union. Its presence on the watch’s dial can be interpreted in various ways:

  • Foundation of Power: The KGB is often seen as the guardian of the Soviet state, crucial for internal security and stability. Its depiction as the base of the elephants underscores its role as the foundation on which the nation rests.
  • Symbol of Control and Surveillance: It also represents the control and surveillance the KGB exercised over the population, maintaining the order and power of the government.

Further reading:

The Vision of the World on Turtles

The phrase “It’s turtles all the way down” refers to the infinite regression in cosmology. This metaphor comes from an ancient creation myth present in Indian, Chinese, and Native American mythologies. According to the myth, the world is a flat disc supported by a series of infinite turtles, one on top of the other. This vision was cited by Stephen Hawking to illustrate the concept of infinite regression in cosmological explanations.

Further reading:

Interpretation of the Combined Symbolism

When these symbols are combined, a complex picture is created that can be interpreted in several ways:

  • The KGB as the Foundation of Russia: The turtle of Hindu mythology is replaced by the KGB, suggesting that the power and stability of modern Russia (represented by the Kremlin) are supported by the foundations created by the KGB.
  • Power and Control: The elephants and the Kremlin above the KGB inscription can represent the immense power and control the KGB had and, by extension, how this control helped sustain the structure and stability of the Russian state.
  • Union of Opposites: Similar to the representation of yin and yang in Hindu cosmology, this watch could symbolize the union of opposites – power and stability (elephants and Kremlin) supported by hidden strength and KGB surveillance.

Further reading:

Final Reflections

This Raketa Zero KGB watch, with its symbol-rich dial, represents more than just a tool for measuring time. It is a cultural artifact that tells a story of power, control, and stability. Every detail of the dial is loaded with historical and cultural meanings, making this watch not only an object of curiosity but also a piece of dialogue about Russian history and politics.

Exploring these symbols offers an opportunity to reflect on how history and culture influence everyday objects and how these objects, in turn, can tell complex and fascinating stories.

Once again, I am amazed. An unexpected watch that has once again sparked my curiosity. A different and definitely unique Raketa Zero KGB!

Conclusion

Exploring these symbols offers an opportunity to reflect on how history and culture influence everyday objects and how these objects, in turn, can tell complex and fascinating stories. The Raketa Zero KGB is more than just a watch; it is a piece of history and culture that deserves to be understood and appreciated.

The Mystery of the Tank on the Dial of the Vostok Komandirskie Watch

soviet watch Vostok Komandirskie Tank

The Vostok Komandirskie Tank watch is one of the most iconic and widespread Russian watches. With its robust military design, it has captivated collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. A particularly intriguing detail on the dial is the stylised tank, which has led to much speculation: which specific tank model is depicted?

Features of the Vostok Komandirskie

Produced by the Chistopol Watch Factory, the Vostok Komandirskie is synonymous with quality and durability. It is known for being designed to withstand extreme conditions, and its design reflects Soviet military pride.

soviet watch Vostok Komandirskie Tank
Vostok Komandirskie Tank

Which Tank is Depicted?

T-34/85: This is one of the most famous tanks of World War II. Celebrated for its battlefield effectiveness, the T-34/85 is often considered a symbol of Soviet military might. Its distinctive shape and crucial role in the war make this model a probable candidate for the stylisation on the dial.

T-62: Another suggested model by experts is the T-62. This tank represents a technological evolution compared to its predecessors and has stylistic features that might correspond to the stylisation on the watch.

IS-2: The heavy tank IS-2, known for its powerful cannon and thick armour, played a significant role during World War II. This model has also been considered as a possible inspiration.

Notes on the Film T-34

The 2019 Russian film “T-34” offers an exciting and gripping look at this legendary tank. Set during World War II, the film follows a young Soviet tank commander, played by Alexander Petrov, who is captured by the Germans. Using a T-34, he orchestrates a daring escape. The plot highlights the ingenuity and bravery of Soviet soldiers, paying homage to the T-34 as a symbol of resistance and victory. This cinematic representation has rekindled interest in the tank and might reinforce the hypothesis that the model depicted on the Vostok Komandirskie dial is indeed the T-34/85. T-34 (film) – Wikipedia

Discussions and Sources

Discussions on which tank is depicted continue on various forums and specialised sites. For instance, Wikipedia and meshok.net offer insights and speculations on the matter. Additionally, enthusiast groups on platforms like VK and forums dedicated to Soviet watches provide further suggestions and theories.

Conclusions

Precisely identifying the tank model depicted on the Vostok Komandirskie Tank watch dial remains a mystery, but the most credible hypotheses are the T-34/85 and the T-62. The stylisation makes a definitive confirmation difficult, but these two hypotheses remain the most probable.

For more details and discussions, I recommend visiting the links to the sources and forums mentioned above, where the enthusiast community continues to share information and opinions on this fascinating historical detail.

Vostok Cosmonaut: The Watch of the Soviet Space Era

soviet watch Vostok Generalskie Cosmonaut

The Vostok Cosmonaut, also improperly known as the Vostok Astronaut, is a highly sought-after Soviet watch among collectors worldwide. Its charm lies in the dial that depicts the profile of a cosmonaut inside a space suit helmet. But who is actually depicted? Let’s explore the various theories and the different versions of this iconic watch.

Versions of the Vostok Cosmonaut

There are primarily three variants of the Vostok Cosmonaut watch: two from the Soviet era and one from the post-Soviet transitional period. Additionally, there are different types of cases and bezels that add to the variety of this model.

Soviet Era Versions
  1. Black Dial The black dial version is usually housed in a chromed Generalskie 091xxx case, with the Vostok automatic caliber 2416b. Produced in the 1980s, it was mainly destined for the Italian and German markets. This model is easily recognizable by its typical unidirectional bezel with small dots.
  2. Blue Dial The blue dial version, much rarer, is set in a Neptune case and features a Vostok automatic caliber. Despite the color differences, the dial design remains substantially identical to the black version.
Transitional Period Version

There is also a post-Soviet version of the Vostok Cosmonaut. This variant, often marketed as Amphibia, follows the success of the Soviet versions with a very similar dial. The main differences lie in the case and bezel, as seen in the following images.

russian watch Vostok Amphibia Valentina Tereskova
Vostok Amphibia Valentina Tereskova
https://www.watchuseek.com/threads/cosmonaut-vostok.628747/

The Dial of the Vostok Cosmonaut

The most distinctive part of the watch is undoubtedly the dial, which depicts the profile of a cosmonaut with a helmet against a backdrop evoking deep space. The Soviet and transitional versions are very similar but present some differences in graphic details.

At first glance, it’s not easy to notice the differences between the two versions. However, by carefully comparing the reflections on the helmet and visor, distinctive details can be identified. Just take the position of the “P” on the helmet as a reference.

Confronto tra i quadranti del Vostok Astronaut

Who is Depicted?

There are three main theories regarding the identity of the cosmonaut depicted:

  1. Yuri Gagarin The most common theory is that the cosmonaut is Yuri Gagarin, the first man to travel into space. The delicate features of the depicted face resemble those of Gagarin, as seen in historical photos​ (Astronomy Scope)​​ (Night Sky Pix)​.
  2. Anna Lee Fisher Some suggest that the image might be inspired by American astronaut Anna Lee Fisher. Although it’s unlikely for an American astronaut to be depicted on a Soviet watch, the resemblance to some photographs of Fisher is striking​ (Difference Wiki)​.
  3. Valentina Tereshkova The most fascinating and perhaps most probable theory is that the face depicted is that of Valentina Tereshkova, the first woman to travel into space. Her historic mission aboard Vostok 6 in 1963 makes her an icon of the Soviet space era​ (Astronomy Scope)​​ (WorldAtlas)​.

Does the Vostok Cosmonaut Have Clones?

There is a similar, though less prestigious, version of the Vostok watch. It is a Slava model with manual winding and caliber 2428. The light gray/white dial features the profile drawing of the cosmonaut but with less definition compared to the original Vostok. Curiously, the bottom of the dial bears the name Yuri Gagarin in Cyrillic (Ю. А. ГАГАРИН), which might support the theory that the cosmonaut depicted is Gagarin.

russian watch Slava Gagarin
Slava Gagarin

Conclusions

The Vostok Cosmonaut, with its various versions, is a milestone in any collection dedicated to the space era and Soviet watches. The simplicity of the design and the cleanliness of the dial make it one of the best Soviet watches of the 1980s. Regarding who is depicted on the dial, the mystery adds an additional layer of charm. Whether it is Gagarin, Tereshkova, or a generic cosmonaut, the Vostok Cosmonaut continues to celebrate those brave men and women who paved the way for space exploration.

Difference Between Cosmonaut and Astronaut

The term “cosmonaut” is used to refer to space travelers trained by the Russian or Soviet space agency, while “astronaut” is used for those trained by U.S., European, Canadian, or Japanese space agencies​ (StarLust)​​ (Astronomy Scope)​​ (Night Sky Pix)​. The distinction originated during the Cold War and reflects the independence and competition between the U.S. and Soviet space programs.

  • Cosmonaut: Derived from the Greek words “kosmos” (universe) and “nautes” (sailor), meaning “sailor of the universe.”
  • Astronaut: Derived from the Greek words “astron” (star) and “nautes” (sailor), meaning “sailor of the stars.”

Fun Facts About Anna Lee Fisher

Anna Lee Fisher was the first mother to fly into space and worked as a chemist and astronaut for NASA. She was married to William Frederick Fisher, also an astronaut, and together they represented one of the few married couples to have both flown into space​ (Difference Wiki)​.

Insights on Yuri Gagarin and Valentina Tereshkova

  • Yuri Gagarin: The first man in space, on April 12, 1961, completing an orbit of the Earth with the Vostok 1 mission. His achievement represents a milestone in the history of space exploration​ (WorldAtlas)​​ (Night Sky Pix)​.
  • Valentina Tereshkova: The first woman in space, flew on June 16, 1963, aboard Vostok 6. Her mission lasted almost three days and marked a significant advancement in the inclusion of women in the space program​ (WorldAtlas)​​ (Night Sky Pix)​.

For further insights, here are some useful links:

  1. Forum Orologiko
  2. Watchuseek – Discussion on Vostok Cosmonaut
  3. Article on Valentina Tereshkova
  4. Biography of Yuri Gagarin
  5. History of Vostok Watches
  6. Technical Details on Soviet Watches
  7. Soviet Space Adventures

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.

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.

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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