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

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi 21 June 202423 June 2024commemorative watch, komandirskie, oil industry, orologio sovietico, Soviet watch, ussr, Volkhov Hydroelectric Plant, vostok, Vostok Komandirskie 0 Comment

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.

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. 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. 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.

How to read a Raketa 24h watch: a comprehensive guide

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi 29 September 202312 June 202424-hour dial, Arctic Circle, cccp, hour hand, how to read time, mechanical watches, minute hand, orologi meccanici, orologi russi, orologi sovietici, raketa, Raketa 24h watch, Saint Petersburg, Soviet watches, ussr, watch guide 0 Comment

How to read a Raketa 24h watch

Raketa 24h watches are a type of mechanical watch produced by the Raketa factory in St. Petersburg, Russia. These watches are characterized by a 24-hour dial instead of the usual 12-hour dial.

russian watch Raketa 24h Marine — Raketa 24h Marine

How the hour hand works

The hour hand on a Raketa 24h watch is the longest hand and is located in the center of the dial. The hour hand completes one full rotation in 24 hours, from midnight to midnight.

To read the time on a Raketa 24h watch, you need to identify the index on the dial that corresponds to the position of the hour hand. The index indicates the time of day.

For example, if the hour hand is at the 12 o’clock index, it is midnight. If the hour hand is at the 6 o’clock index, it is 6:00 am. If the hour hand is at the 18 o’clock index, it is 6:00 pm.

russian watch Raketa 24h Zestril — Raketa 24h Zestril

How the minute hand works

The minute hand on a Raketa 24h watch is the shortest hand and is located in the center of the dial, next to the hour hand. The minute hand completes one full rotation in 60 minutes.

To read the minutes on a Raketa 24h watch, you need to identify the number on the dial that corresponds to the position of the minute hand. The number indicates the minutes of the day.

For example, if the minute hand is at the 12 o’clock index, it is 00:00. If the minute hand is at the 6 o’clock index, it is 00:30. If the minute hand is at the 18 o’clock index, it is 06:00.

Soviet and Russian Raketa 24h watches

Raketa 24h watches were often used in closed environments or above the Arctic Circle, when it is not possible to accurately determine the time of day by observing the sun.

In fact, above the Arctic Circle, the sun never sets during the summer and never rises during the winter. In these cases, a Raketa 24h watch is the only way to know the correct time.

russian watch Raketa 24h Red Star — Raketa 24h Soviet navy

Raketa Big Zero Geiger: The Soviet Watch with a Secret History

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi 29 September 202329 September 2023cccp, ussr 0 Comment

Raketa watches have long been a significant part of Russian watchmaking history, with a legacy spanning decades. But among all the variations produced by Raketa, the Raketa Big Zero Geiger stands out as a unique and mysterious specimen. In this article, we will explore the history of this distinctive watch, its connection to Italy, and the curious error in the name “Geigher.” We will also discover why the Raketa Big Zero Geiger has become such a sought-after item among collectors.

The History of Raketa Big Zero Geiger

The Soviet Raketa Big Zero Watch

To fully understand the history of the Raketa Big Zero Geiger, we must first examine the base model: the Raketa Big Zero. This watch was produced in the Soviet Union by the Raketa company (which means “comet” in Russian) and became quite popular in the 1980s. It was known for its clean design, robustness, and the reliability of its mechanical movement.

The name “Big Zero” comes from the position of the “12” numeral on the watch, which was replaced with a large zero, giving the watch a distinctive appearance. This minimalist style was typical of the Soviet era, where form followed function without frills.

Arrival in Italy

The story of the Raketa Big Zero Geiger intertwines with the importation of these watches into Italy. In the late 1980s, an Italian watch import company known as “Mirabilia” began importing Raketa watches into Italy. However, they are said to have done something unusual. Mirabilia appears to have assembled these watches in Italy using original Raketa Big Zero parts but with a unique local touch.

The Error in the Name: “Geigher” instead of “Geiger”

The most interesting aspect of this story is the name “Geigher” instead of “Geiger.” The error appears to be deliberate and may have been made to avoid potential issues related to the name “Geiger.” The name “Geiger” is closely associated with a Geiger counter, a device used to measure radioactivity. At a time when sensitivity to radioactivity was high due to events like the Chernobyl incident in 1986, it may have been prudent to avoid any potentially negative associations.

The Two Variants of Raketa Big Zero Geiger

The Raketa Big Zero Geiger comes in two main variants. The first features a black and ochre color combination, while the second has a black and gray combination. Both versions are extremely rare and highly sought after by vintage watch collectors.

russian watch Raketa Caution Contact Gaigher — Raketa Caution Contact Gaigher

The Appeal of Raketa Big Zero Geiger for Collectors

The Raketa Big Zero Geiger watch has gained significant fame among collectors for several reasons. Firstly, its rarity makes it a coveted item for those seeking unique and hard-to-find pieces. The combination of an original Raketa watch with the added Italian touch creates a fascinating story.

Furthermore, the mystery surrounding the error in the name “Geigher” adds further intrigue. The theory that the error might have been intentional to avoid unwanted associations adds an element of intriguing speculation.

Anecdotes and Curiosities about Raketa Big Zero Geiger

To complete our exploration of the Raketa Big Zero Geiger, let’s share some interesting anecdotes and curiosities related to this watch:

The Identity of Mirabilia: The company Mirabilia, which imported these watches into Italy and assembled them, has maintained relative secrecy about its operation. Their identity and the motivations behind producing these watches remain a mystery.
The Collector’s Market: In the watch collector’s market, a well-preserved Raketa Big Zero Geiger can fetch considerable prices. Collectors seek not only the black and ochre version but also the rare black and gray variant.
The “Geigher” Error: The name error has become a distinctive feature of these watches. The theory that it might have been made intentionally to avoid controversies is just one of many circulating speculations.

In conclusion, the Raketa Big Zero Geiger is a unique piece of watchmaking history. Its complex history, the connection between the Soviet Union and Italy, the name error, and its rarity make it a cult object for collectors worldwide. So, if you’re fortunate enough to come across one of these watches, hold onto it tightly – you have in your hands a piece of watchmaking history with a story all its own.

Discovering the Charm of Soviet and Russian Watch Collections

Sovietaly™ Orologi Russi 16 April 201821 June 202424h, aeroflot, Amphibia, astronaut, Boctok, buran, cccp, collectible watches, collezionismo orologi, horology, Italian market watches, komandirskie, Mosca, orologeria russa, orologi da collezione, orologi russi, orologi vintage, orologio, orologio sovietico, pobeda, polar aviation, poljot, raketa, Russian watches, Russian watchmaking, russo, Soviet watch collection, Soviet watch history, Soviet watches, Soviet watchmaking, sovietaly, spazio, ussr, Valentina Tereškova, vintage watches, vostok, Vostok Amphibia, watch collecting, watch collection, watch history, Yuri Gagarin, zim 0 Comment

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.

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.