Molnija Caliber 3602 18-Jewel Mechanical Pocket Watch Movement
Watch · Not applicable (Steel, brass, and synthetic rubies)
Purity: Not applicable (Base metal movement components)
Type
Watch
Purity
Not applicable (Base metal movement components)
Gold Type
Not applicable (Steel, brass, and synthetic rubies)
Weight
Estimated movement weight approximately 15 to 25 grams
Description
A classic Soviet-era mechanical pocket watch movement, specifically the robust and widely produced Molnija Caliber 3602. Featuring 18 ruby jewels, visible gear trains, and distinct factory serial and caliber stampings, this movement represents durable Soviet horological engineering. The architecture is heavily inspired by the French Cortebert 548 movement, adapted for mass production to serve military, railway, and civilian needs.
Key Features
Prominent 'SU' export stamp indicating Soviet Union manufacture, 18-jewel layout, manual-wind caliber 3602 marking, and individual serial number 341852
Color & Finish
Steel bridges with circular brushing (Côtes de Genève style or similar mechanical finish), polished screw heads, and brass gear wheels
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamps visible include serial number 341852, 'SU' (Soviet Union export mark), '18 Jewels', and '3602'
Dimensions Estimate
Standard 36mm pocket watch movement diameter
Gemstones & Inlays
18 synthetic ruby jewels used as bearing bushings to reduce friction
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable
Chain & Links
Not applicable
Craftsmanship Details
Utilitarian industrial mass-manufactured finishing, featuring standard mechanical gear cutting, stamped metal bridges, screwed chatons, and functional rubies
Authentication Indicators
Authentic Soviet Molnija 3602 layout with standard Cyrillic/export factory stampings, characteristic bridge shapes, and standard screw placement for this movement family
Origin & Maker
Molnija (Lightning) Watch Factory, Chelyabinsk, Soviet Union
Era & Period
Soviet Era (Mid to Late 20th Century)
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s to 1980s based on the 'SU' stamp and movement styling
Cultural Significance
Molnija watches are enduring symbols of Soviet industrial manufacturing, known for their utilitarian durability, oversized proportions, and widespread daily use across the USSR.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good vintage condition. Visible surface dust and standard age-related patina on components. Balance assembly and gear train appear intact, but functionality requires professional verification.
Value Estimate
Low to Moderate collector value, typically ranging from $30 to $100 depending on overall functional condition and whether it is housed in its original pocket watch case
Care & Maintenance
Keep away from moisture and magnetic fields. Requires professional cleaning, lubrication, and adjustment by a watchmaker experienced in vintage mechanical movements.
Similar Items
Cortebert 548 movements, Soviet Zlatoust military divers' watch movements, and other vintage Molnija 3601 or 3603 calibers
Interesting Facts
The Molnija factory was established in 1947 in Chelyabinsk, supplying watches primarily to the Soviet military, tank commanders, and navy, as well as producing reliable pocket watches for the general public.