Generally I find most Russian watches to rather ugly with loud ostentatious ornamentation but the Strela is none of that. The Strela, which means “Arrow†in Russian, is one of the most coveted watches in the world of Russian horology. Introduced in 1959, the 3017 Strela became a legend in Soviet space history when worn on the wrist of Aleksei Leonov during the first walk in space in 1965. The original Strela featured a chronograph with a 45 minute counter and did not have a date function. Exclusively designed for the officers of the Air Force, the early Strelas were not available to the public and were constructed to strict military specifications. The 3017 movement ceased production in the late 1970s and was replaced with the current 3133 model. This is the model I recently acquired.
At 38mm Diameter this is not a large watch by modern standards but suits my sparrow wrists just fine. The 23 Jewel hand wind 3133 chronograph is a truly robust movement, based on an earlier ETA movement that the Russians purchased the manufacturing rights for. They have made a number of improvements including raising the beat to 21,600. Rate is -20 +40 seconds/day with a power reserve of 42 hrs.
The chronograph function on these movements tends to be a little stiff to get started but is much easier to stop and restart. The flyback is excellent. No signs of an initial jump when starting the chrono.
Thickness is 18mm and it's water resistant to 30m
Like all Russian watches I've seen it has a mineral glass which, while good quality, is a shame. Standard straps are awful but this one came with a S/S band which is well made but can only be adjusted in 13mm steps.
For those looking for something that stands out a bit more you might consider the 'Blue Angels' model.
Enjoy!
At 38mm Diameter this is not a large watch by modern standards but suits my sparrow wrists just fine. The 23 Jewel hand wind 3133 chronograph is a truly robust movement, based on an earlier ETA movement that the Russians purchased the manufacturing rights for. They have made a number of improvements including raising the beat to 21,600. Rate is -20 +40 seconds/day with a power reserve of 42 hrs.
The chronograph function on these movements tends to be a little stiff to get started but is much easier to stop and restart. The flyback is excellent. No signs of an initial jump when starting the chrono.
Thickness is 18mm and it's water resistant to 30m
Like all Russian watches I've seen it has a mineral glass which, while good quality, is a shame. Standard straps are awful but this one came with a S/S band which is well made but can only be adjusted in 13mm steps.
For those looking for something that stands out a bit more you might consider the 'Blue Angels' model.
Enjoy!
