Movement Codes Explained

Someone asked me recently why different brands of Russian watches sometimes seem to have the same model/movement number. For example, Poljot 2623 and Raketa 2623.

The first two digits of the code, in this case 26, are the diameter in millimeters. The next two digits are a code that describes the features of the movement.

Here's a link to a detailed explanation of the movement codes for Russian watches:

http://www.netgrafik.ch/russian-codes.htm

The Movement Inside a Typical Russian Watch

Most Russian watches use mechanical movements. Vostok and Poljot movements are the most common, however some higher-end Russian watches are now using Swiss ETA movements. Some low-end models are using Chinese movements.

If you are curious what these movements look like, check out this page at the PMaier Russian Watches Shop (based in Germany):

www.vostok-watches.com/movements-russian-watches.html

It gives pictures and data for mechanical movements by Vostok, Poljot, Molnija and ETA. The chart also lists watches that use each movement.

It's a good resource.