space history

CCCP Sputnik 1 – A Watch That Celebrates the Space Age

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CCCP Sputnik 1 – A Watch That Celebrates the Space Age

Introduction

The CCCP Sputnik 1 is more than just a watch: it is a tribute to the first artificial satellite launched by the Soviet Union in 1957. This timepiece captures the spirit of an era filled with discoveries and technological advancements, symbolizing the history of space exploration.

Design Inspired by the First Satellite

The design of the CCCP Sputnik 1 directly reflects the iconic Sputnik 1 satellite. The watch features a dial that prominently displays the historic date of October 4, 1957, celebrating a pivotal moment in history. The dial is meticulously crafted, with elements that evoke the four antennas of the Sputnik 1, giving it a distinctive and captivating appearance.

Technical Specifications of the CCCP Sputnik 1

Beneath its vintage exterior, the CCCP Sputnik 1 houses a robust mechanical movement. It is powered by the Slava 2427 caliber, an automatic movement produced during the Soviet era. This movement has a 24 mm diameter and contains 26 or 27 jewels, providing a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. It also features two barrels for enhanced durability and precision, as well as shock protection.

The movement supports three central hands for hours, minutes, and seconds, and includes a day/date function positioned at 3:00. A quick date adjustment is made possible via a dedicated pusher at 2:00, making this watch both functional and visually appealing.

The CCCP and Slava Brands

The CCCP brand draws inspiration from the Soviet era of Russian history, a period marked by significant technological and scientific progress. The name CCCP is derived from the Cyrillic acronym for the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR), Союз Советских Социалистических Республик, transliterated as Soyuz Sovetskikh Sotsialisticheskikh Respublik.

Slava, one of Russia’s most historic watch brands, has a storied past that dates back to the Second Moscow Watch Factory. Today, however, the brand is owned by Citychamp Watch & Jewellery Group Ltd., a Chinese holding company that acquired Slava as part of its global expansion strategy. Citychamp also owns prestigious brands such as Corum and Eterna, blending European and Soviet watchmaking traditions with modern Chinese manufacturing capabilities.

Citychamp is renowned for preserving the historical identity of the brands it acquires, continuing to produce watches that are not only functional but also collectible. For more information on CCCP and Slava watches, visit their official website www.cccptime.com.

Why Choose the CCCP Sputnik 1?

Owning a CCCP Sputnik 1 means having a timepiece that not only commemorates a significant moment in human history but also represents a fine example of Russian watchmaking craftsmanship. It is ideal for watch enthusiasts who value both historical significance and technical excellence.

Conclusion

The CCCP Sputnik 1 is more than just a watch: it is a tribute to an extraordinary historical event. With its design inspired by the first artificial satellite and the Slava 2427 automatic movement, this watch is poised to become a collectible piece for all horology and space history enthusiasts.

Poljot Khrunichev Space Center Watch: A Tribute to Russian Space History

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi , , , , , , , , , , , 0 Comment
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.

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