Lot #28: WORKING - Vintage Soviet Pobeda/Poljot Sturmanskie Yuri Gagarin Mechanical Watch

A manual winding watch featuring a mechanical movement, 17 jewels. The dial commemorates Yuri Gagarin and the first manned space flight on April 12, 1961. The Pobeda brand emerged in 1946 and was produced by various Soviet watch factories, including the First Moscow Watch Factory (1MWF). The Sturmanskie watch used a movement based on the Pobeda design and was produced under the Pobeda name for a period. The First Moscow Watch Factory, the producer of this specific watch model, eventually became known as the Poljot (Russian for "Flight") watch brand. Yuri Gagarin's monumental journey into space in 1961 thrust Soviet watchmaking into the global spotlight. Aboard the Vostok 1, Gagarin wore the Sturmanskie (type 2 - improvement on the type I). This historic timepiece, with its manual-wind mechanical movement and luminescent hands, became an icon of horological achievement. From the blog "Dumarko" title "Soviet Watches: A Timeless Legacy": "Soviet watches, an enduring symbol of the USSR's technological prowess, continue to fascinate collectors and enthusiasts around the globe. These timepieces, produced within a planned economy, were designed with precision, reliability, and functionality at their core. Born out of necessity during the early days of the Soviet Union, the watch industry underwent rapid development, ultimately leading to the creation of legendary brands such as Pobeda, Raketa, Poljot, Vostok, and Slava. Each brand boasts its unique story and significance, reflecting not only the advancement of watchmaking technology but also the sociopolitical climate of the era. Soviet watches were worn by soldiers, astronauts, and everyday citizens alike, serving as reliable companions during times of peace and adversity. The watch industry experienced a significant boost during the Space Race, as timekeeping became an essential aspect of manned space missions. The cosmonauts' timepieces, now icons of horological history, exemplify the symbiotic relationship between Soviet watch manufacturers and the nation's ambitious space program. Despite the challenges and upheaval following the collapse of the Soviet Union, the allure and craftsmanship of Soviet watches persist. " Pickup category timeslot {A}