How to distinguish the original Sturmanskie described in detail by user Tammo in the well-known forum watchuseek.com
Movement
- 1. Jewel setting of the gear train: Unlike the standard 15-jewel Pobeda, the jewels are recessed into openings in the top plate.
- 2. Date code: Expect a marking between 1-49 and 4-53, indicating production between 1949 and 1954.
- 3. Spring ratchet wheel:No text or symbols should be present on this wheel. It should be polished in a pattern presenting a shallow S.
- 4. Factory logo: The authentic 1st Moscow Watch Factory diamond logo must be well-defined.
- 5. Stop-second mechanism: A U-shaped spring stops the balance when the crown is pulled.
- 6. Finishing: The movement should feature polished Geneva stripes.
2. Dial and Hands
- 7. Crown:The Shturmanskie has this pillow shaped crown, like the military Pobeda.
- 8. Second hand: Must be red with a clover-shaped tip.
- 9. Hour and minute hands: Luminous, with blue frame edges.
- 10. Markings: No "Made in USSR" inscription should be present on authentic dials.
- Dial surface: Should not have a silver metallic shine, as seen on some fake/restored dials.
3. Caseback
- Attachment type: Snap-on, not screw-down.
4. eBay Listings Analysis
Based on my market research, here are some current eBay listings and their authenticity status:
- 1000 USD - Fake: Incorrect movement, incorrect jewel setting.
- 890 USD - Fully Original
- 850 USD - Fully Original
- 750 USD - Mostly Original: Crown replaced, everything else is original.
- 745 USD - Fully Original
- 730 USD - Fully Original
- 650 USD - Fake (Type 2) Incorrect movement
- 649 USD - Mostly Original: Crown replaced, everything else is original.
- 499 USD - Fake: Incorrect movement.
These are the Sturmanskie watches currently on eBay. You can use my guidance to choose wisely from my competitors or buy from me with confidence. Alternatively, conduct your own research and verify authenticity based on these key factors.
If you have questions or need verification, leave a comment - I’ll help you identify a genuine Soviet artifact!