Inside the Vostok Factory: How Russian Watches Are Made

An exclusive look at the craftsmanship behind iconic timepieces

Introduction
The Vostok factory in Chistopol, Russia, is the birthplace of some of the most iconic mechanical watches in the world — from the legendary Amphibia to the rugged Komandirskie. We had the rare chance to visit the factory and document the watchmaking process. Here’s what goes on behind the scenes.

A Legacy of Watchmaking

Founded during World War II, the Vostok factory has produced mechanical watches since 1942. With decades of continuous operation, it remains one of the few watchmakers in the world with fully in-house production.

The Heart of the Watch: Movement Assembly

At the core of every Vostok timepiece is a mechanical movement. From the automatic 2416B to the manual-wind 2414A, these calibers are assembled by skilled technicians using traditional methods that have been refined over generations.

Dial and Case Assembly

Once the movement is ready, it’s carefully placed into a steel case. Dials, hands, crowns, and crystals are fitted by hand. Each part is checked and tested to ensure proper alignment and function. The signature acrylic crystal and screw-down caseback give Vostok watches their unique retro look — and rugged durability.

Testing for the Real World

Every Vostok Amphibia undergoes strict water resistance testing to confirm its 200-meter depth rating. Shock resistance and timekeeping are also tested before the watch leaves the factory. These are not just vintage-inspired watches — they’re built to perform.

Visiting the Vostok factory reveals the human side of these legendary watches — real people, real tools, and a real passion for mechanical watchmaking. Each watch carries a bit of history, built with purpose and pride.

You can explore a wide range of authentic Vostok watches — including factory exclusives — at ScubaDudeStore.com.
Free U.S. shipping is available.