Wristwatches from the USSR

The Soviet watch industry was one of the most powerful in the world at the time. There were about 10 factories in the country that produced high-quality and original products. At that time, a lot of modifications were produced on the market, differing in design and technical features.

Wristwatches from the USSR are different several features:

1. Reliability. The assembly of mechanical structures was carried out strictly and in compliance with all the rules. This made it possible to obtain not only beautiful, but durable products that can work in various conditions.
2. Accuracy. Some of the most accurate movements distorted time by about 5 seconds per month. But low-quality systems were relatively few. Often they worked with an accuracy of about 5-20 seconds / day, depending on the modification and model.
3. Functionality. Many mechanisms were equipped with a signal measuring certain time intervals. There were also watches with an alarm clock, which include electronic modifications.
4. Unique design. Most watch movements are standard and do not differ much in appearance. But there are several rare models that are examples of style and beauty.

Wristwatches from the times of the USSR are still popular today. Some models are antiques and are very rare. You can find such antique watch movements only from collectors of such products.

Manufactured watches for men were quite diverse in design and form. Some of them were designed to be worn in extreme conditions, so they could withstand heavy loads. Such products were valued by representatives of the officer corps, to whom they were given as a reward for service. A distinctive feature of these products was the presence of various inscriptions.

In every era there were some popular men's watch movements:

1. Navigators. This model was produced in 1949 and was intended only for the Air Force. They were hard to find on the open market at the time. Today, the cost of such products can reach significant sums.
2. Commander's. Watches of this brand are one of the most popular men's models. They went on sale in 1965. The design was distinguished by the presence of a shockproof, dustproof and waterproof case. Also, the mechanisms were supplemented with special night lighting.

The main manufacturer of Soviet women's watches at that time was considered plant "Zarya". The first models were released in 1938. They were equipped with 15 stones, providing durability and reliability. After that, watches appeared on the market, which had 17 and 21 ruby ​​stones. The most popular female models are brands:

• "Dawn";
• "Star";
• "Auror";
• "Ray";
• "Spring".

Soviet watches were distinguished by practicality, as they were made from high-quality materials. Most of the models were made of high-quality stainless steel, which could withstand significant physical exertion.

Manufacturers at that time did not use precious stones to design cases. Basically, such products were intended for high-ranking officials or sold abroad.

The watch market in Soviet times was oversaturated with various products, allowing you to choose them for every taste. It should be highlighted some popular brands at the time:

1. "Glory". These products did not differ in unique design and high price, although they were equipped with a reliable clockwork. Available to this day, but with a modified design.
2. "Rocket". The designs were equipped with a standard clockwork and did not differ from their counterparts. Modern modifications are distinguished by the decorative design of the chronograph with mother-of-pearl and red crystals.
3. "East". The watch manufacturer was the Chistopol factory, which equipped them with a 24-dials dial and a date indicator. Among the distinguishing features of the mechanism, one can also distinguish the presence of luminous hands and high accuracy of movement.
4. "Flight". These products were popular with scientists and cosmonauts (Yu. Gagarin took them with him). The products are characterized by high precision and reliability of the mechanism.
5. "Dawn". Designs of this type were distinguished by a thin body (Zarya-5). Watches were intended mainly for women.Today, brass and rhodium plating are used as the main material. Some models can withstand water pressure at a depth of up to 30 meters. Another representative of the Penza plant is the "Spring" watch, which was popular with women.
6. "Gull". The production of watches began in 1937 under the name "Victory". Over time, the design was improved, which made it possible to improve not only the design, but also the technical characteristics. Today they are produced in two collections, among which wrist and pocket modifications can be distinguished.
7. "Ray". The manufacturer of these watches was the Minsk Watch Plant. The product design is very simple and will suit most users who are not looking for originality.
8. "Amphibian". This model was released in 1967. A distinctive feature of this mechanism is the presence of an anti-shock mechanism. Such watches could work under water at a depth of up to 200 meters, so they became popular among sailors and divers who used them to solve their problems.

They were especially popular watch "ZiF", which were renamed before the war to "Star". Also, Soviet manufacturers produced many other brands, among which are:

• "Mayak", "Strela" (Poljot plant);
• "Spartacus";
• "Lightning" (factory "Glory");
• "Space";
• "Capital";
• "Second";
• 1945 classic automatic 143;
• "50 Years of Victory".

The value of Soviet watches depends on many factors, such as the year of issue, the number of copies and decorative finishes. Thus, one of the first mechanisms "Victory", "World" or "East" released back in the 1940s. Today you can buy at a price of 700 to 2000 rubles.

Some of them are very hard to find. Popular women's watch "Luch" will cost connoisseurs no more than 400 rubles. Diving models are still popular today. Collectors purchase such products at a price of no more than 1200 rubles.

Buying Soviet watches should pay attention to several factors:

1. Design. The shape and size of the products should be selected according to your taste and preferences.
2. Availability and possibility of restoration. Please note that now factories no longer produce watches of many brands. Therefore, there is no guarantee that in the event of a breakdown they can be repaired and whether it will be economically viable.
3. Accuracy level. Many modifications of Soviet products at that time were compared with the most expensive Swiss products. Therefore, if this factor is important to you, buy only certain watch models.

Owners of Soviet watches note their durability and precise mechanism. Some of them have been using these products since those distant times. This indicates a quality assembly and durable materials.

Among the best models are products such as waterproof "Amphibians", original "Komandirskie", exquisite "Ray" and "Dawn". Here are watches for any category of people from lovers of classics and rare items to reliable mechanical or electronic systems.

See below for details.