Raketa Kopernik
Since I have begun looking for and researching affordable watches I have developed quite a taste for old Russian watches. Until recently I knew nothing about the extensive history of Russian horology; now I find myself spending far too much time on watch forums and sifting through ebay listings for interesting, unusual and cheap watches.
I haven’t quite got the hang of photographing watches so apologies for the poor quality of the shots.
In any event, here are a couple of shots of the latest edition to my collection – a 1980′s Raketa Copernik or Copernicus watch. I don’t know much about the history of these watches. I’ve seen it suggested that they were originally designed to mark the quincentenary of the birth of the astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus but as that was in 1473 that would date them to the 1970′s. Alternatively, the name Copernic (or Kopernic or Copernicus) may refer to the way the round markers (it seems wrong to call them hands) circle each others with a planetary or orbital motion.
Fundamentally, this is a basic mechanical watch with the unique selling point of the unusual hands which are often referred to as planetary or a “sun and moon” as once an hour they form an eclipse.
This watch is in quite good condition and keeping good time. The case is a little worn showing what appears to be underlying brass but that just adds to the astronomical instrument feel of the piece. The crystal (actually acrylic) face is probably new as it shows very little sign of wear compared to the rest of the watch. The hands and face show a little wear. The dial itself has a CCCP marking dating it to the Soviet period, i.e. pre 1991, so it is at least 20 years old.
Overall, it’s a functioning timepiece that is interesting to look at and draws plenty of positive comments from colleagues and friends. I mainly wear it with a black suit for a sober but interesting appearance!
For those that are interested in the workings of mechanical watches there is a great series of photographs available here of a Raketa Copernicus being services.