The CARDI Vostok watch brand represents a unique collaboration between Western design and Russian mechanical precision. Founded in the early 1990s, this brand distinguished itself with unique designs and the use of high-quality movements produced by the renowned Vostok watch factory.
Origins and History
The history of CARDI Vostok begins in 1991, shortly after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The name “Cardi” is derived from the abbreviation of “Car Design Studio,” a Russian company specializing in automobile customization. In an attempt to diversify its activities, Cardi began collaborating with the Vostok watch factory to produce watches with a more “Western” aesthetic (WatchUSeek Watch Forums) (WatchUSeek Watch Forums).
The early models of CARDI Vostok were known for their innovative design and the use of materials such as brass and cheap alloys, mainly produced by the Minsk Watch Factory. These watches were considered high quality, but over time the quality of the materials declined, leading the brand to lose popularity and cease production around 2009 (Sovietaly).
Design and Movements
Cardi Vostok Racingtime GP
CARDI Vostok models combine Cardi’s creative design with Vostok’s robust mechanical movements. The designs were often inspired by the automotive world, with names like “Capitan,” “MVM Sport,” “GP,” “Racing Time,” and “Radar” (WatchUSeek Watch Forums).
The watches used high-quality mechanical movements, such as the 2409 caliber produced by the Vostok factory. Some later models used movements from the 1st Moscow Watch Factory (Poljot) and the Slava factory, in addition to the original Vostok movements. However, after being acquired by Interex-Orion in 2000, the brand began using Chinese movements to reduce costs, further impacting the overall quality of the watches (WatchCrunch) (WatchUSeek Watch Forums).
Cardi Vostok Racingtime GP
Decline and End of Production
Despite initial success, various factors led to the brand’s decline. The quality of the materials used decreased over time, and the introduction of Chinese movements compromised the brand’s reputation for quality. These changes led to a drop in sales and, ultimately, the cessation of production around 2009. Today, Cardi has withdrawn from the watch market and refocused on automotive design (Sovietaly) (WatchUSeek Watch Forums).
Conclusion
CARDI Vostok watches represent an interesting chapter in the history of Russian watchmaking, characterized by a mix of Western design and Russian mechanics. Although production has ceased, these watches remain collectible items for vintage watch enthusiasts and symbolize a period of transition and innovation.
This is an interview with Novikov and Belova, the inventors and developers of the Amphibia project.
Mikhail Fyodorovich Novikov and Vera Fyodorovna Belova, Developers of the Amphibia Watches
The developers of the Amphibia watches, Mikhail Fyodorovich Novikov and Vera Fyodorovna Belova. Image from a video by Vyacheslav Medvedev.
Gli sviluppatori degli orologi Amphibia Michail Fëdorovič Novikov e Vera Fëdorovna Belova. Immagine tratta dal video di Vjačeslav Medvedev.
In 1967, a peculiar event caught the attention of many: a “Volga” car drove over a watch. This was not an accident but a public demonstration of the extraordinary capabilities of the Amphibia, the first Soviet waterproof watch. The article describes this moment as follows:
«…10 …7 …5. Неумолимо, метр за метром движется колесо машины. Затаив дыхание, застыли люди. Что же будет? … Три … метр и, наконец, произошло то, чего с таким любопытством ожидал собравшийся здесь народ: колесо «Волги» переехало… часы» (…10 …7 …5. Relentlessly, metre by metre, the car’s wheel moves forward. People hold their breath, motionless. What will happen? … Three … metres and, finally, what the crowd gathered here was so curiously expecting happened: the wheel of the Volga ran over… the watch.)
The creators of the Amphibia, Mikhail Novikov and Vera Belova, tell us about the genesis and peculiarities of this revolutionary watch. Novikov, then head of the New Developments Bureau, was tasked with designing a watch that could compete with the best foreign models, ensuring reliable operation up to 200 metres in depth and resistance to significant variations in pressure and temperature.
Novikov M.F.:
“The challenge was to develop a watch that was not inferior to foreign models and that ensured reliable operation up to a depth of 200 metres, in conditions of great pressure and temperature variations. The name ‘Amphibia’ was chosen through an internal competition, representing a being that feels at home both in water and on land.”
The design of the Amphibia required the adoption of innovative technical solutions to avoid patent issues and to overcome the limitations of the available technology. For example, the watch glass was designed with a special profile to withstand extreme pressures, while the rubber gasket was developed with highly specific materials to ensure perfect watertightness.
Belova V.F.:
“The glass of the Amphibia is thicker than normal: 3 mm compared to the 2 mm of the ‘Komandirskie’ watches. Not only are the thickness and configuration different, but the manufacturing process is also special. The glass is polished to ensure a perfect seal under high pressure.”
Belova emphasises that the processing of the Amphibia glass required extreme precision, with a production process that included polishing to ensure the absence of any imperfections. The watch case’s resistance was further enhanced using stainless steel, a material that was not common for this type of application in the USSR at the time.
Novikov M.F.:
“It seemed that we could simply copy foreign models, but many of their solutions were patented. Moreover, our equipment could not guarantee the necessary precision. We had to find solutions that were just as effective but without infringing existing patents.”
The Amphibia was not just a water-resistant watch; it was an engineering masterpiece. Every detail, from the rubber gasket to the stainless steel case, was designed to overcome the toughest challenges. Novikov and Belova, with their dedication and innovation, managed to create a watch that would mark an era.
In addition to the civilian version, a military version of the Amphibia, called the NVCH-30, was developed for Soviet Navy divers. These models were subjected to rigorous tests of resistance and operation, including drills simulating sea rescue scenarios.
Belova V.F.:
“These watches were tested with very rigorous programmes. Even the strap had to pass extreme resistance tests. The strap’s connection to the NVCH-30 looked a bit strange but was extremely robust.”
The legacy of the Amphibia lives on today as a symbol of innovative engineering and durability. Novikov and Belova, with their vision and expertise, have left an indelible mark on the history of watchmaking.
“Il tempo nello spazio” by Anna Pegna is a book that has captured the interest of many collectors and enthusiasts of Russian and Soviet horology. Published by Effequ in 2010, this text offers a detailed exploration of watches and astronautic enterprises in 20th-century Russia, making it an essential work for those who wish to better understand the interplay between technology, history, and Soviet space adventures. The title in Italian translates to “The Time in Space” in English.
Copertina del libro ‘Il tempo nello spazio’ di Anna Pegna, edito da Effequ, che racconta la storia degli orologi russi legati alle missioni spaziali del Novecento.
A Masterpiece Sought After by Collectors
“Il tempo nello spazio” is out of print and can only be found second-hand. Even the author, Anna Pegna, no longer has the original files, making a reprint impossible. This factor has increased the book’s value among collectors, making it a highly sought-after item.
A Detailed and Engaging Analysis
Chapter 1: The Beginnings
The first chapter, titled “Gli inizi” (“The Beginnings”), traces the history of Russian watchmaking from the Tsarist era to the October Revolution. 19th-century Russia is depicted as a primarily agricultural country with few industries and little tradition in watchmaking. The narrative focuses on early watchmaking experiences, such as that of Pavel Bure, who founded a factory in 1815 using Swiss movements. The contributions of pioneers like Piotr Vasil’evich Khautskij and Konstantin Tsiolkovskij, who laid the groundwork for future precision mechanics and Russian astronautics, are also highlighted.
Chapter 2: The First Factories of the New Regime
The second chapter examines the transformations that occurred after the October Revolution when the Soviet government recognised the importance of precision production. The acquisition and transfer of the American Dueber-Hampden factory to Russia marked the beginning of Soviet watch production. The establishment of the First State Watch Factory in Moscow and the introduction of early Soviet models like the Type-1 are described. This chapter also illustrates the initial difficulties and the need to develop an autonomous production independent of foreign technology.
Chapter 3: War-Time Watch Factories
The third chapter, “Le fabbriche di orologi di guerra” (“War-Time Watch Factories”), describes the crucial role of watchmaking during World War II. Soviet factories were relocated eastward to protect them from German attacks, focusing on producing military watches and precision instruments for aviation and the navy. The chapter recounts the story of the Zlatoust factory, which continued producing ammunition and parts for Katiusha rockets, and the Second Moscow Watch Factory, which moved to Chistopol. The strategic importance of precision watches in military operations is emphasised.
Chapter 4: Watch Factories in the Soviet System
The fourth chapter focuses on the organisation and management of watch factories within the Soviet system. Factories were not autonomous entities but part of a single state system. Each factory had its distinctive brands but often shared technologies and movements. This chapter explores how factories collaborated and integrated into the broader context of the Soviet planned economy.
Chapter 5: The Post-War Period
The fifth chapter, “Il dopoguerra” (“The Post-War Period”), describes the resumption of watch production after the war. Factories resumed mass production and introduced new models like the Pobeda. This chapter also examines the influence of German technology on Soviet chronographs and the role of war reparations in rebuilding the watch industry. The history of movements under LIP licence and the evolution of major factories like Kirova and Raketa are detailed.
Chapter 6: Men (and Women) in Space
This chapter offers an overview of Soviet space enterprises and the crucial role of watches in these missions. The stories of Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space, and the Shturmanskie watch he wore, along with key figures like Valentina Tereskova, the first woman in space, and Alexey Leonov, the first man to perform a spacewalk, are narrated alongside the watches that accompanied them.
Chapter 7: Beyond the Iron Curtain
The seventh chapter explores the spread and influence of Soviet watches beyond the USSR’s borders. The chapter details how these watches became popular in Eastern Bloc countries and were perceived in the West, highlighting export strategies and the international reputation of Soviet watches.
Chapter 8: Other Soviet Factories
This chapter focuses on other significant but less well-known Soviet watch factories. The histories of factories like Raketa, Chaika, Zarja, and Molnija and their unique contributions to Soviet horology are described. The peculiarities of each factory and their distinctive models are explored.
Chapter 9: After Khrushchev
The ninth chapter analyses the transformations in the Soviet watch industry following Khrushchev’s fall. It examines how Brezhnev’s policies influenced production and technological development. This chapter also describes the new models introduced during this period and the challenges faced by the industry.
Chapter 10: Watches of the 1970s
The tenth chapter focuses on the watches produced in the 1970s, a period of innovation and diversification. Iconic models like the Raketa Copernicus and Poljot Okean are described. The chapter examines design trends and emerging technologies of this decade.
Chapter 11: Watches of the 1980s
This chapter explores developments in Soviet watchmaking during the 1980s. The influence of the 1980 Moscow Olympics on watch production and the impact of political and social events on the industry are described. Models like Poljot and Vostok are discussed in detail.
Chapter 12: Spacecraft and Space Stations
The twelfth chapter offers an overview of Soviet space missions and the watches used aboard spacecraft and space stations. The chapter describes the role of watches in timing and coordinating space missions, highlighting the importance of precision and reliability.
Chapter 13: Epilogue
The final chapter, “Epilogo” (“Epilogue”), summarises the main themes of the book and reflects on the legacy of Soviet horology. The historical and cultural relevance of Soviet watches and their place in modern collecting are discussed. The chapter concludes with considerations on the importance of preserving this historical heritage.
A Must-Read for Enthusiasts
The book is highly praised for being well-written and engaging, providing not only technical details about the watches but also a rich historical narrative that contextualises technological evolution within the scope of Soviet space adventures. This book is a must-have for anyone passionate about Russian and Soviet horology, especially those interested in space exploration stories.
The Unique Appeal of Soviet Watches
One of the most fascinating aspects of the book is the description of Russian watches, known for their robustness and precision. These watches, offered at affordable prices, were the first to leave Earth’s atmosphere, accompanying astronauts like Gagarin and Leonov on their historic missions.
Conclusion
“Il tempo nello spazio” by Anna Pegna is a work that offers a unique perspective on Soviet horology and 20th-century space enterprises. Although out of print, this book remains a treasure for collectors and enthusiasts, representing a piece of history that combines engineering, adventure, and military history. If you haven’t read this book yet, searching for and acquiring it is an investment that will undoubtedly enrich your understanding and appreciation of Russian and Soviet horology.
Zaporizhzhia is the answer to the question that has intrigued many people for a long time. On December 31, 2020, in the Facebook group “Russian Watches Passion,” user Gianfranco posted a photo of a watch asking for information about it:
Initial Hypotheses
The responses from group members and other collectors were numerous. Here are some summarized hypotheses:
Astronomical observatory
Precision instrument
Camera lens
Textile frame
Microcircuit
None of these hypotheses proved correct.
The Accidental Discovery
The solution emerged by chance while I was writing in this same blog about a commemorative watch for the 10th anniversary of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
The History of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant
The Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant is the largest nuclear power plant in Europe and one of the ten largest in the world. Located near the city of Enerhodar in Ukraine, its construction began in 1980, and the first reactor was commissioned in 1984. The plant consists of six VVER-1000 reactors, each with a production capacity of 1,000 megawatts, making the total capacity of the plant 6,000 megawatts.
The plant has been a symbol of technological and industrial progress for the Soviet Union and, subsequently, for independent Ukraine. Over the years, it has played a crucial role in supplying electricity to the country and the surrounding region.
The Meaning of the Dial
Thanks to this discovery, the mysterious dial now has a solution. It is one of the Raketa commemorative watches for the 10th anniversary of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
The black silhouette represents the buildings housing the nuclear reactors. In the photo below, it is possible to see how they have a dome on top and, next to it, a lower building, probably housing the steam turbines. The building containing the reactor also has a particular shape that mirrors the silhouette on the watch dial.
The vertical yellow and black rays crossing the black silhouette probably represent nuclear energy or energy in general.
In 2024, the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant remains a focal point not only for Ukraine but also for the international community, especially due to the geopolitical situation in the region. For updated information, you can visit the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) website, which monitors the safety and operation of nuclear power plants globally.
The mysterious dial is thus a tribute to the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, a detail that enriches the history of this particular Raketa watch model. This piece is a fascinating example of how everyday objects can hold deep stories and meanings, linked to significant moments in industrial and technological history.
One of the most fascinating aspects of collecting watches is discovering what they commemorate or represent. This passion led me in November 2020 to discover a Soviet Zim watch with a champagne-colored dial and a monument depicted on it, which was unknown to me at the time.
The Zim Watch
This Soviet Zim is well-preserved, with a champagne-colored dial that is rich in detail but aesthetically very pleasing. The main elements are well distinguished, and the dial depicts the Monument of Glory in Kuibyshev, now known as Samara. The dial also bears the inscription “Kuybyshev,” the name Samara had from 1935 to 1991 in honor of the Bolshevik leader Valerian Kuybyshev.
Zim 400 years Kuibyshev monument of Glory
Details of the Watch
The hands, including the small second hand, appear to be original. The dial is in excellent condition, although the watch seems to have been used. The plexiglass may have been replaced. On the dial, between three and nine o’clock, are the waves of the Volga River, adding a touch of elegance and geographical context to the watch.
The Back of the Watch
The case shows signs of wear that have removed the plating, revealing the brass underneath. The stainless steel case back is fixed with a screw-down ring, also in steel. The back bears a serial number: 524715. Although the serial numbers of Soviet watches do not have a particular significance, they are useful for identification through the watch passports.
The Movement of the Watch
The heart of the watch is a simple yet effective Pobeda 2602 caliber without antishock.
Located in the city of Samara, the Monument of Glory is dedicated to the workers of the aviation industry who contributed significantly during the Great Patriotic War. Built between 1968 and 1971, the monument was created by sculptor Pavel Bondarenko, artist Oleg Kiryuhin, and architect A. Samsonov. The structure, over thirty meters high, is made of a stainless steel alloy. The inauguration took place on November 5, 1971.
A selection of historical images allows you to appreciate the monument in various periods, probably starting from its construction in 1971.
The Monument of Glory Today
The monument is located in Slavy Square, with the Volga River in the background. This detail is also depicted on the watch’s dial. The monument, made of an aeronautical alloy, features vertical lines at the base and shiny steel representing rays of light directed towards the sky. The statue on top, 13 meters high, depicts a figure with wings spread.
Video of the Monument
Various videos online show the grandeur of the Monument of Glory and the adjoining square. Here is one of the best from 2019:
The City of Samara
The watch dial shows the founding date of the city of Samara, 1586. Interestingly, one of the earliest representations of the city is on a 14th-century Italian map when Samara was considered a pirate haven.
The two dates on the dial refer to the city’s 400th anniversary (1586-1986).
This watch perfectly represents why I love collecting Russian and Soviet watches: each piece is a journey through time and space, allowing me to visit historical moments and fascinating places just by looking at the dial.
Welcome to the story of Sovietaly, my collection of Russian and Soviet watches that has taken shape over the years. My passion for watches has deep roots in my life, roots that delve into the tales and stories of the watches my grandfather collected with care and pride. Growing up, those pieces of history always fascinated me, and in 2017, I began to make sense and structure of my expanding personal collection.
The Birth of the Sovietaly Website
In an attempt to organize the information and share my passion for Russian and Soviet watches, I decided to create a website. After exploring various options, I chose Google Sites for its simplicity and familiarity from past use. The result is the site you can visit here: Sovietaly. This space allowed me not only to showcase my collection but also to address an important issue: what to name this unique collection of watches?
The name “Sovietaly” was suggested by a dear collector friend who saw the deep connection between the concept of “Soviet” and Italy. This name became my distinctive brand, also used as a nickname in groups and forums. I decided to protect the brand (™) after legal advice, recognizing the value and protection my collection deserved.
The Creation of the First Logo
The second step was to find a logo that fully represented the essence of Sovietaly. Inspired by iconic symbols like the Raketa Big Zero watch, the hammer and sickle of the Soviet Union, and the colors of the Italian flag, the logo was created with the collaboration of a professional on Fiverr.com.
It should be emphasized that the logo with the hammer and sickle was created solely to evoke the collection of Soviet watches, without any reference to communist ideology or political issues, which do not interest me.
Sovietaly (TM) logo
The Evolution of the Logo in 2024: A New Identity
In May 2024, I decided to renew the logo to eliminate any political references and to highlight the connection with Italy even more. The new logo maintains the brand’s recognizability, adding a border with the Italian flag, reflecting a new identity more aligned with reality, given the increasing dissemination on social media.
This is currently the logo of the site and social media channels, representing the identity of Sovietaly and its evolution more accurately.
Logo di Sovietaly
A Journey of Passion and Sharing
The journey of Sovietaly has been an exciting path of growth, learning, and sharing. Since then, the Sovietaly logo has become a recognizable and original element, proudly accompanying the collection. Over time, I have also experimented with its presentation, using only the text as a watermark for photos on social media.
Each watch in my collection has a story to tell, a story that I could not wait to share with other enthusiasts. Each piece represents a piece of history, a fragment of time that carries the charm and mystery of past eras.
I hope this story can inspire other watch enthusiasts and collectors. Thank you for being part of this adventure!
Missile Troops and Artillery: here is the true meaning of this dial revealed. It’s a widely distributed Vostok Komandirskie, and often people wonder about the hidden meanings behind such a cryptic dial. Careful research is required to uncover the exact significance of the various symbols on the dial.
Discovering the Watch
I found this watch for a few euros in a lot, and it immediately intrigued me. I had seen it many times, but never so peculiar or beautiful to justify a single purchase. After a bit of investigation, curiosity took over, and I sought to find out what it was exactly about.
The Watch
The watch, upon closer inspection, is quite standard. It’s a Russian Vostok Komandirskie with a 2414 movement and a 439xxx case. Both the glass and the case are unfortunately quite damaged, but the watch is still functional, indicating that the reliable Vostok 2414 works well even under harsh conditions.
Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops
Vostok Komandirskie Missile Troops: Where Are the Missile Troops and Artillery?
Everything is grouped in the emblem found at the six o’clock position on the dial. What is it about?
The image consists of three elements:
A laurel wreath
Two cannons
A missile
Uncovering the Meaning
After some research and the help of a Dutch collector friend, I found a military patch online that clarified the meaning. The writing: ракетные войска и артиллерия on the patch means “Missile Troops and Artillery.” This is therefore a commemorative Vostok of these armed forces, which are part of the Vooružënnye Sily Rossijskoj Federacii, or the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.
A curiosity: on November 19, Russia celebrates the “Day of the Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Federation.” Here is a video about it:
Missile Troops and Artillery: Who Are They?
For those interested, here is the link to the Russian Wikipedia page: LINK.
Interesting information I found includes the existence of:
Missile Troops and Artillery of the ground forces of the Russian armed forces
Missile Troops and Artillery of the coastal forces of the Russian armed forces
Tasks of the Missile Troops and Artillery
The missile troops and artillery are tasked with:
Achieving and maintaining fire superiority over the enemy
Destroying enemy nuclear attack means, personnel, weapons, military, and special equipment
Disorganizing enemy troop and weapon command and control systems, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare
Destroying long-term defensive structures and other infrastructure
Disrupting enemy operational and military rear
Weakening and isolating the enemy’s second echelons and reserves
Destroying tanks and other armored vehicles penetrating the enemy’s depth
Covering flanks and open joints
Participating in the destruction of enemy airborne and amphibious assault forces
Remote mining of areas and objects
Supporting night operations of troops
Smoking and blinding enemy objects
Distributing propaganda materials and others
Conclusion
It is easy to see how even a simple Vostok Komandirskie can intrigue and lead to unexpected in-depth research. Sometimes the only challenge is navigating the numerous military units present in Russia. The watch was probably commissioned for some celebration or simply made like many others to celebrate the armed forces.
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.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
There are three main theories regarding the identity of the cosmonaut depicted:
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).
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).
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.
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).
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.
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.
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