The VOSTOK Komandirskie 650539 GMT is an automatic watch with a strong military design, perfect for lovers of robust and functional watchmaking. Made in Russia, it perpetuates the legacy of Soviet watches with a raw style and reliable mechanics.

It's a real Kalashnikov, it's basic but reliable. The red GMT hand allows you to follow a second time zone, which adds a touch of charm.

Under the hood, we find the VOSTOK 2432 automatic movement, known for its reliability and simplicity. With a power reserve of 31 hours, it offers sufficient autonomy for daily use. Its supposed water resistance to 200 meters (I haven't tested it in an aquatic environment) reinforces its adventurous side, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Its slightly domed acrylic glass adds a retro charm, reminiscent of military watches from years gone by.

In summary, the VOSTOK Komandirskie 650539 GMT is a watch with a strong character, perfect for those looking for an authentic and functional piece, with a rich history and a timeless design.

A robust watch with timeless charm

Passionate about conquest, I wanted a watch with a space history at a lower cost. This GA8470.WBB limited to 999 copies is the replica in a smaller diameter of the one worn by the taikonaut Zai Zhigang during the first spacewalk. It is rather imposing and will not suit all wrists, but it has a look of its own and its finish is rather good. I have never had any problems to date. The rubber strap is of very good quality, it just lacks one or two holes for more precise adjustment.

The Chinese taikonaut watch

It's one of the watches I wear the most and yet paradoxically it's one of the watches that disappointed me when I received it. Why? Its diameter. At the time I wasn't used to 39 mm and my first impression was "it's too small". Finally I love its contained diameter, its vintage look with its yellow hands never tires me. I don't dive with it unlike other of my divers but it accompanies me almost everywhere. It is very reliable with its yema 2000 and I have never had any problems.

Yema Navigraf

Certainly one of the best value for money emotions. Its vintage look, its movement that flatters the eye and its history make it a must have. Of course it is a chinoiserie, you should not expect exceptional quality. But compared to the price there is nothing to complain about. I have had it for 5 years, it still works impeccably and I really enjoy putting it back on regularly. Its small diameter can be scary but on nato it has a beautiful presence and always arouses a look and questions from people who lay their eyes on it.

An interesting chinoiserie

Of course it is not a Bianchi in the literal sense. But the quality/price ratio is good, it retains some of the brand's codes including the crown on the left and the shape of the case with a more fun side thanks to the Octopus. It is a nice tool watch that does the job when diving. I always wear it with great pleasure.

Attractive diver

HKED is a distributor based in Hong Kong. On the site, it is possible to buy "1963" models with increased quality control and TOP finishing. I gave this watch to my son for his 14th birthday. This HKED has a 40mm 1963 case, with an ST 1901 movement, derived from the Swiss Venus 175 mechanical chronograph movement, visible, thanks to the glass, which the case back is provided with. It has a "Swan Neck" setting. The emerald green sunray dial, with the two cream sub-counters is beautiful. The domed glass is made of plexiglass and gives a vintage look to this model. A good chronograph at a very low budget to start a collection!

HKED-Seagull 1963

Watching Ivan on Xavier’s couch finally convinced me to buy the Sea-Gull International Edition 1963. Beyond Ivan’s comments, it was the iconic design of this watch that really appealed to me, including its red star, blued hands, and bright red chronograph. Its excellent value for money and its status as a modern reissue of a legendary chronograph originally designed for the Chinese Air Force also played a key role in my decision.

Classic and elegant design: The champagne dial, with its subdials for the minute track and small seconds, evokes the military style of the 1960s. The blue hands and gold-tone indexes create a striking contrast, while the glass crystal adds a touch of luxury while preserving the watch’s vintage charm. The round 316L stainless steel case, with a diameter of 37.5 mm and a thickness of approximately 15.1 mm, offers a robust yet refined silhouette.

ST1901 Manual Movement: Equipped with a ST1901 manual mechanical movement with 22 jewels, this watch is renowned for its reliability and precision. Its movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 A/h and offers an adequate power reserve for everyday use.

Comfort and dimensions: With a net weight of only 60 g and a canvas strap with a length of approximately 28 cm and a width of 18 mm, this watch is comfortable to wear all day long. Personally, I am not a fan of the Nato strap supplied with the watch, so I opted for a green leather strap, whose stitching recalls the color of the dial. This allows me to admire the movement more easily while offering optimal comfort for everyday use.

Modern finishes: This edition is distinguished by the use of quality materials, such as resistant glass. The transparent case back allows you to observe the movement in action, a real asset for watch enthusiasts.

Military heritage and versatility: Elegant and functional, this watch can be worn in both formal and casual settings. Its water resistance of 3 bar (30 meters) makes it practical for everyday use.

Conclusion: My Sea-Gull 1963 International Edition fuses military heritage with a touch of modernity. For fans of vintage mechanical chronographs, this is an exceptional choice. Its fascinating history and technical performance make it both collectible and practical, while offering excellent value for money.

Sea-Gull 1963: An Iconic Chinese Chronograph

I was looking for a mechanical chronograph, and after some research and videos, I fell in love with the Seagull 1963. This iconic watch, powered by the ST19 movement inspired by the famous Swiss caliber Venus 175, offers exceptional value for money. The Seagull 1963 is a must-have model for enthusiasts and collectors, combining fascinating history, vintage design and mechanical engineering. In 1961, the Chinese government gave the Tianjin Watch Factory a prestigious mission: to design a chronograph to equip the Chinese air force, the PLA Air Force. After two years of development, in 1963, the legendary ST19 chronograph was born. This movement, based on the Venus 175 acquired by China after its production ceased in Switzerland, demonstrates a perfect fusion of Swiss watchmaking know-how and Chinese innovation. The Seagull 1963 seduces with its retro aesthetic: a refined dial, delicately colored hands and remarkable mechanical precision, thanks to its manual winding. More than a watch, it is a true piece of watchmaking history, a tribute to an era when watchmaking was at the crossroads between tradition and innovation.

My SEA-GULL 1963 mechanical chronograph watch

Having been for a long time only attracted by mechanical watches without complications, 3 hands, no date; by dint of listening to the various influencers, I asked myself "and why not a chronograph" with an emblematic & very connoted finish, even caricatured, the PANDA. This type of watch not having a priority in my collection, I turned to an economical choice, the reissue of the Chinese chronograph from 1963, in a finish under contrasting dials, panda. The watch is nice, blued hands, red chrono second hand, we lose the great elegance, but the compromise is nice. A relatively endearing watch, mounted on a "racing green" strap to bring it back to the automotive world. I wear it little, the 30mn compax counter ultimately finds few concrete daily applications. It does have style, however, it could be replaced by an equivalent LONGINES or UNIVERSAL Genève, panda .... to be seen

Panda

Sea-Gull 1963. While browsing YouTube videos, I came across this model praised by several "Watch enthusiasts". Beyond the small difficulties of acquisition, necessarily online, the model presents an excellent level of finish for this price. The movement is correct and the model arouses curiosity.

Sea-Gull 1963, original small Chinese chronometer

Friends with a passion for watches piqued my curiosity and it was through a YouTube video that I discovered the Sea-gull 1963. Since the model was not patented, this watch is produced by many Chinese manufacturers. So I bought the model from Red Star on a famous Chinese sales platform for €133 including tax. At that price, I didn't expect much, but this watch exceeds my expectations. 

Its finishes are certainly simple, but well done: no brushing on the case but a flawless polish, a satin champagne dial, sub-dials painted directly on the dial in a very clean way, magnificent gold indexes, blue and red hands that fit well into the case. 

As for the movement, my ST1901 gives me a little over 48 hours of power reserve, and a drift of +10s/day (test watch placed flat for 24 hours). The chrono is great for monitoring the cooking of pasta.

Finally, I find that a brown leather strap with a bund suits it better than the usual Natos.

A good introduction to the world of watchmaking

Bought in November 2023. It's more of a Red Star 1963, because it's not the official model of Maison Sea-Gull... but it's still legitimate, there is indeed the famous ST1901 mechanical winding movement based on the Venus 175, 38 mm case and acrylic glass, I chose this version to get as close as possible to the original version.
It's a very accessible watch that was a great success on the Internet, I got it very easily at a more than reasonable price.
You always take a risk when buying a watch on the Internet without trying it but frankly it's without regret and at worst it can be resold.
It has a little charm thanks to its bi-compax type chronograph, a pretty champagne dial and gold indexes, for my part I'm not totally a fan of the hands whether in terms of shape or color (a bit cheap) except for the large red second hand which makes sense for a watch coming from China.
The case is relatively basic and the domed glass really gives it that vintage look, the back reveals the ST19 movement which is impressive at first glance but you shouldn't expect finishes worthy of high-end watchmaking movements, but it's still down.
A watch with excellent value for money that is truly endearing and deserves to be in a collection.


China's first aviation watch for the Air Force

I had been hesitating for several months, probably even years. The ultra vintage look and the historical (mythical? ...!) character had seduced me. As well as the general compactness for a chronograph. Finally, a promotional opportunity convinced me (yes, it's almost petty!). 
OK, the leather strap is much too long (therefore quickly changed), the whole thing does not exude foolproof robustness, and the diameter sold at 38mm actually measures 37.5 in diameter (a 38.5 would have been perfect), but the synthesis of this Chinese watch is still surprising. I also measured a lug to lug of 47.2, a thickness of 13.3 and a weight of 61 grams with strap. 
It is a pleasure to wear it, and the movement visible on the glass case back is particularly pleasant to look at! I opted for the sapphire crystal version and swan neck regulator supposed to provide better precision, we will see in the long run. Skeptical before purchase on the movement, I must admit a surprisingly satisfactory adjustment and regularity (the personal threshold of tolerance being naturally lowered, the opposite of the level of indulgence!). 
In short and in fine, the watch figures worthily in my collection, and I intend to alternate fairly without sulking, as for the others!

SEAGULL 1963 Chronograph

(Sea-gull 1963 (reissue); 40mm; sapphire crystal and open back). This mechanical chronograph is an icon and is very successful thanks in particular to its affordable price (paid €177 in 2021). The original model was developed in the early 1960s by the Tianjin manufacturer at the request of the Chinese government in order to equip its air force pilots. The on-board ST1901 movement is inspired by the Venus 175 which equipped Breitlings in particular. My model is a little different from the historical model because I chose it in 40mm with a domed sapphire crystal and an open back. On the other hand, the Kanji writing at 6 o'clock is on 2 lines (unlike the majority of recent models). This is one of the many reissues (cloning? Counterfeit?) from the land of the rising sun but I cannot certify that it really comes from the Sea-gull manufacture...
With its champagne dial on which its applied gold indexes, its blue hands and its red second hand are placed, this watch has a deliciously vintage look. The show continues on the back of the wide open case with this magnificent ST1901 movement with its column wheel and blue screws... A treat!. Despite the plastic ring which is unfortunately quite visible around the movement and the minute hand of the chrono which wanders a little when it is engaged and I move my wrist too much (the defect of my model), I am rather seduced by the general aesthetics of this timepiece. If you choose this chrono, you must take into account the sometimes random quality and the risk of receiving a defective copy without any guarantee of real after-sales service (many testimonials on the net). Likewise, in the event of a mechanical problem, it will be difficult to find a watchmaker who will agree to plunge his hands into the engine...

The essential chronograph to start your collection

If the market is flooded with bronze models, I find that if only one had to use this material it should be this seagull which seems to come from ancient times.
The patina accentuates its vintage aesthetic, the association of colors is perfect with its champagne dial.
The only flaw is the nato with which it is delivered. It's simple, nothing goes on it. The pin is too small as are the loops. Changing the latter is simple since its width is 18mm.

Bronze suits him perfectly

<p>La marque <strong>SYE</strong> [Start Your Engine] a &eacute;t&eacute; cr&eacute;&eacute;e en <strong>2020</strong> par Arnaud Pezeron &agrave; c&ocirc;t&eacute; de Paris en France. La marque inaugure le Sport Tailoring au poignet. Elle propose des montres sport-chic de caract&egrave;re, fiables, ludiques et abordables inspir&eacute;es de l'univers de la m&eacute;canique auto-moto. La gamme comprend deux mod&egrave;les distincts, la <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/sye/mot1on_automatic_24">SYE MOT1ON Automatic 24 </a>et la <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/sye/mot1on_chronograph">SYE MOT1ON Chronograph</a>.</p>
<p>Cette marque embarque une innovation sur le changement du bracelet disponible en acier ou en cuir. La montre n'offre aucun espace entre le bracelet et la boite d&ucirc; &agrave; l&rsquo;absence de cornes, ce qui am&eacute;liore son confort et sa portabilit&eacute;.</p>
<h2 class="p1">Combien co&ucirc;te une montre&nbsp;SYE&nbsp;?</h2>
<p class="p1">La gamme SYE comporte deux mod&egrave;les disponibles sur le site de la marque : La <strong>SYE MOT1ON Automatic 24</strong> est propos&eacute;e &agrave; partir de <strong>750&euro;</strong>. La <strong>SYE MOT1ON Chronograph</strong> est propos&eacute;e &agrave; partir de <strong>599 &euro;</strong>.</p>
<p><strong>SYE</strong> est ind&eacute;pendante et produit plusieurs centaines montres par an tous mod&egrave;les confondus. Pour choisir une SYE qui vous correspond le mieux, les <strong>avis clients Dialicious</strong> sont une pr&eacute;cieuse ressource pour &eacute;valuer chacun des diff&eacute;rents mod&egrave;les &agrave; travers l'exp&eacute;rience r&eacute;elle des clients.</p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Consultez le <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/top/les_meilleures_marques_de_montres_francaises"><span class="s2">Classement des meilleures marques de montres fran&ccedil;aises</span></a> dont SYE fait partie.</span></p>
<p>(Mise &agrave; jour Novembre 2023)</p>

<p dir="ltr">The brand <strong>SYE</strong> [Start Your Engine] was created in <strong>2020</strong> by Arnaud Pezeron near Paris in France. The brand is introducing Sport Tailoring on the wrist. It offers sporty-chic watches with character, reliability, fun and affordability inspired by the world of car and motorcycle mechanics. The range includes two distinct models, the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/sye/mot1on_automatic_24"> SYE MOT1ON Automatic 24</a> and the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/sye/mot1on_chronograph"> SYE MOT1ON Chronograph</a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr">This brand has an innovation in changing the bracelet available in steel or leather. The watch offers no space between the bracelet and the case due to the absence of lugs, which improves its comfort and portability.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">How much does a SYE watch cost?</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The SYE range includes two models available on the brand's website: The SYE MOT1ON Automatic 24 is offered from &euro; 750. The SYE MOT1ON Chronograph is offered from &euro; 599.</p>
<p dir="ltr">SYE is independent and produces several hundred watches per year, all models combined. To choose an SYE that best suits you, the Dialicious owners' reviews are a valuable resource for evaluating each of the different models through real customer experience.</p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Check out the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/top/the_best_french_watch_brands"><span class="s2">Ranking of the best French watch brands</span></a>, including SYE.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">(Updated November 2023)</p>

<p dir="ltr">The <strong>Sea-Gull 1963</strong> is an iconic watch that embodies Chinese watchmaking history and know-how. Initially designed for the Chinese Air Force, over the decades it has become a symbol of military watchmaking and a prized piece among collectors around the world, particularly for its historic design and affordable price.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Origins and Historical Context</h2>
<p dir="ltr">In the 1950s, <strong>China sought to develop its watch industry</strong> to reduce its dependence on foreign imports. In 1955, the Chinese government ordered four watch specialists to produce a national watch for the People's Liberation Army. This initiative led to the creation of the first Chinese watch, known as the WuXing, produced by the Tianjin Watch Factory, which later became Sea-Gull.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In 1961, the Chinese Air Force issued a specific order for a chronograph to equip its pilots. After several prototypes and rigorous testing, official production began in 1963, giving birth to the watch today known as the Sea-Gull 1963.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Technical Characteristics and Design</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The Sea-Gull 1963 stands out for its classic design and technical specifications:</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Housing:</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Initially in stainless steel, with a diameter of 38 mm, adapted to the standards of the time.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Dial:</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Champagne color, decorated with gold indexes and hands, with a red star at 12 o'clock, symbolizing the People's Liberation Army.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Complications :</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Bicompax chronograph with a small seconds at 9 o'clock and a 30-minute counter at 3 o'clock.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Movement :</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Caliber ST19, a mechanical movement with manual winding, <strong>derived from the Swiss caliber Venus 175</strong>. Indeed, China acquired the rights and production machines for the Venus 175 movement, allowing local production and adaptation to military needs.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Glass :</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Domed acrylic, offering a vintage aesthetic.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr">Bracelet :</h3>
<p dir="ltr">Olive-colored NATO, reinforcing the military aspect of the watch.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Evolution and Reissues</h2>
<p dir="ltr">After its initial production for the army, the Sea-Gull 1963 went through several reissues intended for the general public:</p>
<p dir="ltr">2000s : Faced with collectors' enthusiasm for vintage military watches, Sea-Gull reissued the 1963, retaining its original design while improving certain technical aspects.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Modern Variants : Versions with 40mm and 42mm cases have been introduced to suit contemporary preferences. In addition, options with sapphire crystal and transparent back were offered, allowing you to admire the ST19 movement in action.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Limited Editions : Some reissues were produced in limited quantities, with engraved serial numbers, increasing their appeal to collectors.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Cultural Impact and International Recognition</h2>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>The 1963 Sea-Gull became an icon of Chinese watchmaking</strong>, symbolizing the industrial independence and technical know-how of the country. Its unique history and connection with the military make it a sought-after piece by military watch enthusiasts.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Internationally, the 1963 Sea-Gull has gained popularity thanks to its excellent value for money and timeless design. It is often recommended as a first mechanical watch for new collectors, providing an affordable introduction to traditional watchmaking.</p>
<h2 dir="ltr">Conclusion</h2>
<p dir="ltr">The Sea-Gull 1963 is much more than just a watch; she is the testimony to a time when China sought to assert its technological independence. Its elegant design, combined with a rich history, makes it a must-have piece for any watch enthusiast. Today, <strong>it continues to seduce with its vintage charm</strong> and reliable mechanics, perpetuating the heritage of Chinese watchmaking on the international scene.</p>
<p dir="ltr">(Updated November 2024)</p>

Sea-Gull 1963 Owner Review : Endearing, historical and surprising

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