Raketa UFO 1980s USSR Watch Mechanical 2628H Day Date Vintage Rare
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Vintage Raketa “UFO” Soviet Watch – 1980s
A distinctive and highly collectible vintage Raketa wristwatch, produced in the 1980s at the Petrodvorets Watch Factory (USSR). Known among collectors as the “UFO”, this model features a bold round case design with a strong wrist presence and iconic Soviet industrial styling.
In the Soviet Union, this model was informally nicknamed “Cheburashka” or “Hockey Puck” due to its compact, rounded shape and characteristic proportions. These nicknames have remained popular among collectors and enthusiasts to this day.
The watch features an elegant silver-tone dial with applied hour markers, a day-date complication, and a sharp fluted chrome bezel that adds a refined yet rugged aesthetic. The Raketa logo and “Made in USSR” inscription emphasize its authentic Soviet origin.
Condition
The watch is in good vintage condition with light signs of age. Fully serviced in April 2026: complete disassembly, ultrasonic cleaning, lubrication, and precision adjustment. The movement runs reliably and keeps time within expected parameters for its class.
Specifications
- Brand: Raketa
- Origin: USSR, 1980s
- Movement: Mechanical, Caliber 2628.H
- Jewels: 19
- Frequency: 18,000 A/h
- Power Reserve: ~45 hours
- Functions: Sweep second, Day, Date
- Quick Date Change: Yes (via crown pull)
- Lift Angle: 42°
Case & Dimensions
- Case Shape: Round
- Case Diameter: 43 mm
- Thickness (with crystal): 12 mm
- Lug Width: 18 mm
- Case Material: Blackened brass
- Bezel: Chrome-plated, fluted
- Caseback: Stainless steel, screw-lock ring
- Markings: “Shockproof balance”, “Splash-resistant” (in Russian)
Strap
Brand new dark green (military-style) textile strap with a stainless steel buckle. Durable, comfortable, and perfectly matching the watch’s utilitarian Soviet aesthetic.
Authenticity
All parts are original. No aftermarket components. The watch retains its authentic Soviet character and mechanical integrity.
Why This Watch
This Raketa is not just a timepiece — it is a statement of design and history. Its distinctive round case and strong visual identity make it highly sought-after among collectors worldwide. At the same time, its reliable mechanical movement makes it perfectly suitable for everyday wear.
A rare find that combines collectibility, history, and practical usability — an excellent addition to any vintage watch collection.
Overview
- Period
- 1980s
- Factory
- Petrodvorets Watch Factory
Movement
- Movement
- Mechanical (hand-wound)
- Caliber
- 2628
Case size
- Diameter (Ø)
- 43 mm
- Weight
- 200 g
Case
- Case material
- Chrome-plated
- Case finish
- Chrome-plated
Dial, hands & crystal
- Dial color
- Silver
Condition & service
Condition: Fully serviced
Carefully packed and sent with tracking — typically 7–21 business days depending on destination.
Every watch is a genuine Soviet-era original, inspected and (where noted) serviced before it ships.
If it isn't right, return it within 14 days for a refund — just get in touch and we'll sort it out.
A Soviet mechanical watch has no battery — it runs on a tiny wound spring, just as it did decades ago. Treat it kindly and it will keep good time for many years. Here is how to wind, set and care for yours.
Winding a hand-wound watch
- Wind it off your wrist. Hold the watch in one hand so you do not put sideways stress on the winding stem.
- Turn the crown clockwise (away from you) with your thumb and forefinger, in smooth, steady turns.
- Stop as soon as you feel firm resistance. Do not force that last turn — a fully wound spring stops abruptly, and pushing past it can damage the mainspring.
- A full wind lasts roughly 24–40 hours. Winding once a day, at about the same time, keeps the watch running and accurate.
Automatic (self-winding) models
Some Soviet watches — certain Vostok and Slava models — wind themselves from the motion of your wrist. If one has stopped, give the crown 20–30 gentle turns to get it started, then simply wear it. You cannot over-wind a healthy automatic.
Setting the time & date
- Gently pull the crown out to the setting position and turn it to move the hands. Setting the time forwards (clockwise) is kindest to the movement.
- If your watch has a date, avoid changing it between roughly 9 p.m. and 3 a.m. The date mechanism is engaged during those hours and forcing it can break it — move the hands to mid-morning first, then set the date.
- Push the crown fully back in when you are finished.
Everyday care
- Keep it dry. Vintage watches are not water resistant, even if marked so decades ago. Take it off before washing your hands, swimming or showering.
- Avoid magnets — speakers, phones, laptops and magnetic clasps can magnetise the movement and make it run fast.
- Avoid knocks. Take the watch off for sport or heavy work.
- A vintage movement that keeps time to within about a minute or two a day is running well. Small variation is normal and part of their charm.
Storage & service
When you are not wearing it, store the watch flat in its box, away from heat and moisture. There is no need to keep it fully wound at all times. To keep it healthy, have it professionally serviced every 3–5 years — a clean and fresh lubrication is what lets these watches run, quite literally, for generations.
Look after it and your Soviet Time piece will outlast its battery-powered cousins many times over. If anything ever feels wrong, write to support@soviet-time.com. You can also review our Returns & guarantee. — Igor, your watchmaker
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