When it comes to military watches, people often think of the German Luftwaffe wearing Flieger timepieces or the US Army wearing Hamilton Khakis. But if you’re getting deep into the hobby of collecting military watches and want something unique, a good suggestion is the Vostok Amphibia.
Vostok Amphibia: Russia’s Iconic Dive Watch
In the 1960s, the Russians wanted to create their own dive watch that would compete with the likes of the Blancpain Fifty Fathoms and Rolex Submariner. They needed a watch that could operate at a temperature and pressure of 20 atmospheres without faltering. To achieve this feat, they hired Mikhail Fedorovich Novikov and Fedorovna Belova as chief designers.
Developing the watch proved to be difficult as foreign watchmakers have already patented a lot of technologies they needed. This means they had to start from scratch. As a result, the team designed a special technology for glass and they even started making their own special rubber. After working so hard, they were able to release the first batch of Vostok Amphibia watches in 1967.
After the watch’s release, Vostok started producing the Amphibia in large quantities for the Soviet and Russian military. That being said, the Vostok Amphibia became widely popular worldwide that even decades after its release, watch collectors still hunt for special-edition Vostok Amphibia watches.
Best Vostok Amphibia Watches
There are a lot of flavours for the Vostok Amphibia that choosing the right one might be too confusing for beginners. To make it simpler, here are some of the most popular models that you should look into.
1. Vostok Amphibia Scuba Dude 420059
Specs:
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Case dimension: 39mm
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 31 hours
- Water resistance: 200m
When people say “Vostok Amphibia”, they most probably meant the Vostok Amphibia Scuba Dude 420059. This model is dubbed as the “typical Amphibia” and has one of the most common case styles in the collection. In particular, it sports the 420 case shape that is known to lack a crown guard. All in all, the exterior of the Scuba Dude 420059 appears less angular than other dive watches in the market.
Staying true to its name, the watch’s dial features an icon that’s familiar to Vostok fans — the Scuba Dude. Beside it is the Russian version of the brand’s name. It also has a simple layout with rectangular indexes and a date window at 3 o’clock. To complete the dial, it is protected by a domed plastic crystal that adds a retro look to the watch.
One major thing to note about this watch is its bezel. Dive watches typically have a unidirectional bezel. However, this one rotates in two ways, so if you’re a hardcore dive enthusiast, this is something you should get used to. But if you don’t plan to dive with the watch, then this won’t greatly affect the watch’s functionality.
Inside, it runs on the Vostok 2416 calibre, which is one of the brand’s historic movements. It has vintage specs and has an accuracy rating of -20/+60 seconds per day. And aside from being automatic, it can also be manually wound. Overall, this movement offers great value for the price.
2. Vostok Amphibia Radio Room
Specs:
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Case dimension: 41mm
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 31 hours
- Water resistance: 200m
The Vostok Amphibia Radio Room boasts one of the most interesting dial designs in the collection or even the whole brand. It uses either a black or white background that has four thin flashes of red. But apart from the visual interest of the design, the story behind it is also intriguing as the four flashes equate to four periods of radio silence. These periods of silence can be used to watch out for people sending distress signals at sea.
Unlike the Vostok Amphibia Scuba Dude, the Radio Room version uses a 110 case shape. While it is not a fan favourite, it blends in well with the whole dial with its angular stature. It is also unique enough to merit a few stares from people who are fans of dive watches. Another thing that sets this watch apart from the previous one is the text on the dial. Instead of the “Boctok” logo, it says “Aмфибия” which is the Cyrillic word for Amphibia.
Under the dial, it uses the Vostok 2416B movement, which is self-winding and a popular Russian calibre. In fact, this movement is also used in Vostok Komandirskie watches. It keeps excellent time and is a great value for money.
The Vostok Amphibia Radio Room is an attractive dive watch that can deliver amazing results. Whether you’re attracted to its design, diving capabilities, or backstory, this watch is a good choice.
3. Vostok Amphibia Sailboat
Specs:
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Case dimension: 39mm
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 31 hours
- Water resistance: 200m
Another fan favourite is the Vostok Amphibia Sailboat. It became popular for its clean white dial and easily recognisable 710 Ministry Case. It has black and blue hour markers and a black minute/second train at the outer ring of the dial. And behind it all is a light blue picture of a sailboat to stay true to its name.
Vostok calibres are known to be robust and reliable, and this one is no exception. It is self-winding with 31 ruby jewels. However, if you prefer to wind it manually, you can still do it with the winding stem. It is also shock-resistant, so it is capable of handling harsh conditions.
It is very easy to change the NATO straps on the Vostok Amphibia Sailboat. This is an appealing feature to people who easily get bored with the looks of their timepiece. And thanks to its white dial, this model can blend in well with most, if not all strap colours.
All things considered, the Vostok Amphibia Sailboat is an excellent nautical-themed watch for casual wear. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for spring or even summer, so don’t forget to strap an Amphibia Sailboat on your wrist for your next yacht party.
4. Vostok Amphibia Classic 960760 Neptune
Specs:
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Case dimension: 42mm
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 31 hours
- Water resistance: 200m
The Vostok Amphibia Classic 960760 Neptune is among the newer Neptune releases. In fact, this model was only released in 2018 along with a few other Neptune models. Aesthetics-wise, this timepiece can be likened to watches with a Coke design. In truth, Vostok was able to implement that design well with the diving bezel.
Speaking of diving, the 960760 Neptune is capable of exploring the oceans. In fact, it boasts a high water resistance rating of 200m. Furthermore, its hands and indexes are well-lumed to stay legible when underwater. You also don’t have to worry about its durability as it has a scratch-resistant crystal to protect the dial.
Like the Radio Room, this watch runs on the 2416B calibre. And as mentioned above, it is self-winding with a safety device that keeps the spring safe from overwinding. When it comes to accuracy, it has an average daily rate of -20/+60 seconds. Moreover, it includes 31 ruby jewels and can run for about 31 hours.
This Neptune model looks more modern than the other Vostok Amphibia editions. If you are a fan of Coke watches and want something that looks like a classic dive watch, this watch is a top contender.
5. Vostok Amphibia Zissou
Specs:
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Case dimension: 40mm
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 31 hours
- Water resistance: 200m
Some people might recognise the Vostok Amphibia Zissou edition as part of a comedy movie called The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou. The Russian brand even made a special-edition model to give to Zissou and, as expected, it has a set of features that’s unique to only the Zissou watch.
This watch is the same as other Vostok Amphibia models when it comes to the inside. But on the outside, it is a lot different. For instance, it has a ship’s steering wheel at the 12 o’clock position and at the bottom is an anchor. Another interesting design cue is the rope running around the outer part of the face. While it is subtle, it successfully adds to the nautical vibe that the watch gives.
As mentioned above, the Zissou runs on the same 2416B calibre movement. This movement is self-winding with the ability to be wound by hand. Furthermore, it provides a date complication as well as 31 hours of power reserve.
The Vostok Amphibia Zissou has become a cult classic. A lot of dive watch enthusiasts search high and low for this piece. So if you manage to get your hands on one, it will definitely prove to be a good conversation starter.
6. Vostok Amphibia Desert Shield
Specs:
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Case dimension: 45mm
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 31 hours
- Water resistance: 200m
The Vostok Amphibia Desert Shield is one of the most historically interesting watches. One intriguing fact about it is that it is a Russian watch that bears the American flag on its dial. To add, the USA was known to be an enemy to the USSR when this watch was made. That being said, fans are eager to know the real deal about this watch.
It is inevitable for a controversial piece such as the Desert Shield to attract rumours. A few sources say that this model was made by Soviet allies for the US troops who fought in the Gulf War. But the true story is that the watch was a collaboration between Vostok and Timepeace Russian Watches Inc. The latter was an American import company that wanted to capitalise on patriotism amid the war. So to commemorate the Gulf War which was codenamed Operation Desert Shield, they made this watch.
There are a lot of Vostok Amphibia Desert Shield variants in the market. But they have a lot of similarities. One is that the dial contains the words “Operation Desert Shield” in green font colour. Another is that it bears the US flag, a tree at the top, and two swords at the bottom. Some versions of the watch may be harder to find than the others.
If you have an affinity for watches with military history, this watch is something to look out for.
7. Vostok Amphibia KGB 420457
Specs:
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Case dimension: 39mm
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 31 hours
- Water resistance: 200m
Here is another Vostok Amphibia piece that collectors love. The Vostok Amphibia KGB 420457 bears the logo of the Russian security agency. Furthermore, it has the Russian letters “KGB” and “CCCP” right beside it. As a lot of people know, KGB is a well-known USSR agency, so history buffs would be keen to own this watch.
This watch has a bezel that rotates in two directions. But unlike typical dive watches, its bezel doesn’t click and instead slides smoothly. In addition, it has a screw-down crown that helps to achieve a 200m water resistance rating. And if you’re planning to wear this during a dive, its resistance to shock will help put your mind at ease.
Moreover, this watch contains a classic Vostok movement called the Vostok 2416. It has 31 ruby jewels and is self-winding although it can also be manually wound. In terms of accuracy, you can expect a rating of -20/+60 seconds per day. Overall, this movement is trusted by many enthusiasts around the globe.
Whether you’re a dive watch fan or a history enthusiast, this watch is something to consider. Its quirky looks paired with an affordable price tag makes it irresistible to different kinds of watch collectors.
8. Vostok Amphibia 090661
Specs:
- Case material: Stainless steel
- Case dimension: 48mm
- Movement: Automatic
- Power reserve: 31 hours
- Water resistance: 200m
Lastly, the Vostok Amphibia 090661 does not have an interesting backstory like the previous models. But what it lacks in history it makes up for with its looks. Its case comes in a cushion-style shape that is similar to a Seiko Turtle. Furthermore, its dial is one of the simplest designs in this list.
When it comes to diving function, it has a lot to give. It has a water resistance rating of 200m and a screw-down crown. Furthermore, its stainless steel casing is solidly built and can handle a lot of bumps on the road.
It uses a movement called the calibre 2415 which is self-winding. This calibre can make the watch tick for not less than 31 hours when fully wound. Last but not least, it has an accuracy rating of -20/+60 seconds per day.
For people who want a Vostok Amphibia that’s easy to read, the 090661 is a good choice. Its clean dial and solid build make it a reliable daily driver or even a dive companion.
Final Notes
The Vostok Amphibia is not your ordinary military watch. For one, it has an uncommon design that will appeal to a handful of fans. Another is that it is connected to a part of history that many have never heard of. Military watch fans should not skimp on this Soviet military watch.
Interested in other underrated watch brand? Read our guide to Greubel Forsey watches!
