Molnija Caliber 3602 18 Jewels Mechanical Pocket Watch Movement
Watch (Pocket Watch Movement Subcategory) · Not applicable; features silver-tone nickel-plated bridges and brass gear wheels
Purity: Not applicable; base metal watch movement components with brass and steel alloys (often housed in gold-plated or silver-plated cases)
Type
Watch (Pocket Watch Movement Subcategory)
Purity
Not applicable; base metal watch movement components with brass and steel alloys (often housed in gold-plated or silver-plated cases)
Gold Type
Not applicable; features silver-tone nickel-plated bridges and brass gear wheels
Weight
Movement weight approximately 20-30 grams; full pocket watch typically 75-100 grams depending on case material
Description
A robust and reliable Soviet-made Molnija caliber 3602 mechanical pocket watch movement. Featuring 18 jewels and distinct striped bridges, this movement is a testament to utilitarian Soviet horology, heavily inspired by the French Cortebert 548 design. It is prized by watchmakers and collectors for its durability, large balance wheel, and historical significance.
Key Features
Large 36mm movement size, 18-jewel configuration, SU Soviet Union export mark, distinct bridge layout, and high interchangeability of parts
Color & Finish
Silver-toned brushed Geneva stripe finish on the bridges, polished screw heads, and golden brass gears
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped '18 jewels', '3602' indicating the movement caliber, and 'SU' denoting Soviet Union origin, along with serial number 841852
Dimensions Estimate
Standard 36mm watch movement diameter with a height of approximately 4.5mm
Gemstones & Inlays
18 synthetic ruby jewels serving as bearing bushings to reduce friction in the gear train
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable to movement; standard pocket watch case snap or screw back closure
Chain & Links
Not applicable to movement; typically paired with a matching pocket watch chain such as an Albert or curb chain
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial mechanical construction utilizing stamped steel plates, brushed nickel-plated brass bridges, cut bimetallic or monometallic balance wheels, and functional Geneva stripes
Authentication Indicators
Clear 'SU' export stamp, accurate caliber number '3602', factory serial engraving, and characteristic Soviet industrial finishing
Origin & Maker
Molnija (Lightning) Watch Factory, Chelyabinsk, Soviet Union (USSR)
Era & Period
Soviet Era (Mid-to-Late 20th Century)
Age Estimate
Circa 1960s-1980s based on the stylized SU export stamp and bridge design
Cultural Significance
Represents the height of Soviet mass-market mechanical watchmaking, providing reliable timepieces for everyday citizens, military personnel, and railway workers across the USSR
Condition Notes
Good vintage condition with clean bridges, visible rubies, intact gear teeth, and minimal oxidation on the steel components
Value Estimate
Low to moderate collector value ranging from $30 to $100 depending on working condition and whether it is housed in a pristine case
Care & Maintenance
Requires professional mechanical servicing and oiling every 3-5 years; keep away from strong magnetic fields, moisture, and dust
Similar Items
Cortebert 548, Hamilton 917, or other vintage Soviet pocket watch movements like the Zlatoust-related military watches
Interesting Facts
The Molnija 3602 movement was produced for decades and was famously used not only in pocket watches but also in cockpit clocks for Soviet military aircraft and tanks