Why this $70 Watch Has a Cult Following - Vostok Amphibia History & Review

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In the world of truly affordable watches, Vostok is a name every enthusiast knows, with the Russian-made Amphibia standing out as perhaps the least expensive legitimate automatic dive watch on the market at around $70 at full retail. In this video, we'll do a deep dive into the Vostok Amphibia's history while also reviewing a classic example of this inexpensive dive watch to paint a picture of how this watch became the cult classic it is today.
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[@clauricaune]

This guy is able to enjoy watches in every level, without bias or prejudice of any kind. It's that kind of authenticity that makes this channel great. Thank you, Teddy Bulbasaur.

[@jh565bb]

If you like him, youl like Freddy Charmander and Tony Squirtle lol.

[@whatsstefon]

This is why I enjoy this channel, unlike a few others who review Vostok watches without any research what so ever. Teddy can appreciate the unique engineering that went into Vostok watches. Mine is over 40 years old and still keeps going. Giving me 36 hours of operation per full wind. And fairly accurate too. Maybe mine is a very lucky one. But my two other older Vostok watches with the rare 2 o’clock crown run well too.

[@michaelcope856]

I had a bulbasaur, but a course of antibiotics and some cream and Hey Presto!

[@jasonhuang6332]

Petition for when Teddy gets 500k subs he renames himself Teddy Ivysaur for a week

[@AA-yh4ws]

@@jh565bb win hahaha. I didn't even realize they said Bulbasaur until I read your comment hahahaha

[@dim31rus]

1.In-house movement 2.Domed crystal 3.Back case ring 4.”Wobbly” crown 5.

[@aaa5717]

The thing with most Amphibia calibers is that they're ridiculously precise. I reckon that the factory just doesn't want to waste time calibrating them. Over a month's time, I've regulated mine to stay between -7 and +7 seconds per day, depending on the temperature. For day to day use, it almost never gains or loses over a minute per month, so the real numbers are even lower. I really love the charm of a soviet beater being tuned out to perfection. Vostok rocks!

[@BaddaBigBoom]

Yep, me too.

[@MinefighterLP]

same for me. Regulated my Amphibia to +8 seconds per day, and another Komandirskie to +4 seconds per day lol.

[@CristianQuintero]

How do you regulated it?

[@Doctor-Fate]

Depends, I have a Vostok Komandirskie made in the USSR in the 80s, goes behind 4 minutes a day, but the cost to service it will be higher than the cost of the total watch itself :D

[@davidliftsheavycircles]

7 seconds a day sounds horrendous to me. I almost exclusively own casio watches and my least accurate one is 8 seconds a month. Do you just reset it every single day? That sounds really annoying

[@Zapto01]

I have a 70's long case Vostok that has been running for the past 5 years that i had it like a champ. I recently bought and replaced the bezel and the bracelet, polished the acrylic and now it looks like a 2021 vintage retro watch. Now i love it even more. ♥

[@fernandogil65]

My girlfriend is visiting her parents in Russia and I asked to find me a Vostok! She was very surprised I know the brand so I may receive mine in a couple weeks with “free shipping” 😅 She also told me her dad have the same Vostok since the 70’s, the man used to work for the USSR space agency and received it after a mission he participated on (from earth, he wasn’t a cosmonaut). I think regardless of price they’re very cool...

[@Alias_Anybody]

@Seaworth It's not like there aren't any US soldiers who basically got a medal and a few headpats for life long trauma. States are stingy with everything but names and titles.

[@Alias_Anybody]

@Seaworth Well, you can't eat or drink respect.

[@Alias_Anybody]

@Seaworth What are those perks? A few discounts and bragging rights? If it's not a high life long pension it's certainly not worth it either. Also, when did we determine that said Soviet employees ONLY got the watch? Maybe a lot of them got useless medals too! 😜

[@Alias_Anybody]

@Seaworth Butthurt because your ignorant little world view was challenged?

[@ImPedofinderGeneral]

@Seaworth at least there was no homeless USSR vets or vets who cant pay their medicine bills. You forgot the fact that lot of things were not just "cheap" but free for ex soldiers? Oh, you cant forgot what you are not allowed to know proud cappi. Now go and do something good to tricked by your government homeless vets instead of stinking on every soviet thing in the internet.

[@elgatto3133]

Vostok is genuinely one of the most impressive clockmakers around considering what all they're able to do at the prices they do it. They make mechanical GMTs, they have watches with tritium, they have 24 hour watches, they have mechanical alarm clocks and you can even buy mechanical ship clocks (similar to marine chronometers)from them! There are so few companies that make mechanical clocks at all, and Vostok is one of them. I wish Poljot was still around, though. They were the USSR's masters of complication.

[@PanaSonyc]

I really wish to own a Vostok Clock one day. Too bad yet I can't just simply afford 300€ for a Clock. But one day.

[@eddieg849]

Can you tell me more about poljot when did they stop making watches?

[@elgatto3133]

@@eddieg849 Somewhere around 2012.

[@eddieg849]

@@elgatto3133 I have one of those watches I can't seem to find another one that looks like it and trust me I've looked everywhere it's a pilot Aviator it has two crowns one on each side 3 6 9 numerals 31 jewels made in Russia black dial bought it off of eBay and I have been searching and I can't find another one like it

[@SurajSinghTomarArya]

Poljot brand is still alive but they are now made in Germany. They still respect their russian heritage as most of them are russian themed.

[@carlnilsson0]

I bought an old Vostok amfibia from the 60s about a month ago. It´s a manual wind but it started at once, not a second of error and has about a 40 hours of "power reserve". I love it!!

[@bandoiler]

You are the most level headed knowledgeable and clean cut watch expert out there. Others are just filled with anger and so abusive. Your videos are just class and a pleasure to view. Keep up the great work Teddy B.

[@stelloyd4266]

Sorting through my parents house (sadly both now deceased) I found my dads Seiko watch that I bought him with my very 1st pay cheque. Brought back happy memories of when we both used to love & appreciate watches. Somewhere along the way I became “trapped” by the popularity of smart watches. I’ve now become sick & tired of them pinging me every minute of the day. So I bought a CasiOak GA-2100 for work & am saving up for a Hamilton Khaki Field mechanical to start my collection. Think I may pull the plug on a Vostok Amphibian too for it’s history & a reminder not to take my collecting too seriously. I’m so glad I found your Chanel Teddy...it’s a godsend 👍

[@emu314159]

I liked the Google love letter movie with Vaughn and Wilson, Internship or whatever, but it actually starts out with them getting fired as watch salesman, because "watches are obsolete." I guess that was just before apple watch, that niche thing from that plucky startup, caught on. Also, try being in a meeting where some high brass is talking, are you going to pick up your phone and check the time right in front of them?

[@TheRonanEdition]

I'm sorry to hear about your parents I hope that you have peace. I think enjoying watches that your dad used to wear is a pretty great way to appreciate him and remember the fond times!

[@MartyP-lr7vw]

I have a Kommandirskie - keeps good time and is rugged, scratches give it even more character !

[@Mr-Safology]

I have one, they're great! If you want to remove the scratches (personally I haven't) you can use polywatch. 👍🏼

[@MartyP-lr7vw]

@@Mr-Safology I even put mine on a Nato strap for convenience & comfort.

[@sheldorleconcher8870]

I have 2 on the way...eventually!

[@Mr-Safology]

@@MartyP-lr7vw same, khaki green nato strap for my blue/green komandirskie.

[@taham33]

I knew a guy who took his in a bike trip all over God-knows-where-istan. The strap snapped, so he had to attach the thing to the handle of the bike. The watch, returning home, was well and good, still ticking... after such a licking.

[@ryanshorts339]

My first venture into the vintage watch market was a vostok amphibia from the 80's. Still one of my favorites

[@FPSWordle]

I bought one of these recently and I use this as my travel watch. I can take it anywhere and not worry about losing it or beating it up a bit. I love it.

[@jtlast9600]

I don't know why but for some reason watching this channel has just made me interested in watches when before I wasn't. It's just something about watches that's fascinating. Thank you for these high quality videos

[@youraveragepasser-by7367]

Start a collection! It's fun as hell

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Happy to get you started! Enjoy the journey, dive in!

[@TheRonanEdition]

Don't buy a Casio you won't be able to stop!

[@MightyFoogle]

I think another reason Vostok is popular is due to the fact they are not hard to self regulate and maintain. The fact they can also be quite modular has led to many enthusiasts just having fun modifying their Amphibias or Kommandirskies. Its fun, it's lighthearted and goofy and is what makes Vostok a brand to be enjoyed by all. Another solid video Teddy 👌👌

[@younusimam-thesalamproject6340]

Ive been wearing a Vostok for nearly 2 years. Very tough, they have been taken rafting and have survived being bashed on rocks. I love switching bezels and regulating them. They can also be dressed up or down. The cushion case is fantastic and allows the watch to conform to the wrist when making sudden movements.

[@Alex-zz6ow]

Only Teddy could make a Vostok look incredible with that camera work

[@simonrano8072]

Watchfinder could make a Vostok stunning just speaking about ;)

[@oscarosullivan4513]

@@simonrano8072 But they wouldn’t

[@bunberrier]

Is it a filter it looks amazing

[@derekshearer9049]

Extremely easy to make A Vostok look good just take a photo. The watch does the rest.

[@nomadben]

@@bunberrier Not a filter or anything like that. Just good lighting, good camerawork, and good color correction.

[@blasien1]

In house movement, performance, history, innovative design features (in the best Russian tradition!). Its cheap price just points out the utter nonsense of the tool-as-jewelry joke that the "luxury" watchmakers have foisted upon us.

[@rg1283]

Amen!

[@danpinzone8226]

How can I order one

[@NICHOLSON7777]

Absolutely. And a bonus point for the use of "foisted".

[@watsondna]

Agreed. My only “high dollar” watch cost $200 and I sweated over the expense.

[@XstonedmonkeyzX]

Reason a Rolex cost as much is because I just took an unserviced Rolex from the 90's, wound it and its running at -1 second a day after 30 years! Used prices are ridiculous tho..

[@BlackthorneBuilds]

There is beauty in simplicity. Something I've always admired about soviet era engineering. Things were made to be robust and functional, while perhaps not incredibly accurate. Built to last and get a job done. I love it and can't wait to get my (first?) Vostok.

[@joseinluzon2218]

I don’t go out of my way to watch your videos, but like with this one… when I watch one I’m usually very impressed with your content. Awesome!

[@VladDeBriansky]

Love Vostok! I own Rolexes, Longines etc... which are a pieces of art with superb technology. But the Vostoks are not pretending to be the gold íPhone of the watch world. They are the first "Nokia' made out of steel that work great, keeps the battery forever and feels solid. And holding that watch is like that first bicycle you had when you were a kid, the first cool car you bought and fell in love with it. It's almost like the first time you fell in love - that's the feeling of Vostok, reminding you of the "life is good". They are a niche of its own, with its real horological history and a proven functionality. And let that cherish and be loved.

[@christopherstarr7607]

Does your Vostok take a standard battery that is found in the USA?

[@YusufSahin-ks2lx]

@@christopherstarr7607 They are automatic watches, they do not have batteries.

[@christopherstarr7607]

@@YusufSahin-ks2lx Thank You, I will be looking for one soon!

[@nomadnotary3970]

Can you please give me a recommendation where to buy this watch?

[@NikitaNikita-qb8pz]

@@nomadnotary3970 Good evening. Contact me, I can walk you through the whole process.

[@MolotovSandvich97]

I bought a vintage Komandirskie last October, one of the more “loud” dial designs. And now here I am, not a year later, with 4 more. A couple brand new Amphibia models as well as a second edition Amphibia from the early 70s. I think the draw to Vostok, at least for myself, is the modification potential as well as the mystique of owning something from behind the iron curtain. Even something as mundane as a watch has huge design differences and quirks, and whether you agree with it or not, that old Soviet “power to the people” still stands with the affordability and accessibility of the watches they make. That’s something special, even if the accuracy ratings aren’t. I’m a huge Vostok guy, and I definitely appreciated this review.

[@ItsNeverTooHot4Leather]

My 1980s Vostok Amphibia has been running for almost 40 years. That's power in engineering. Anyone who has held a Soviet-era Vostok knows how much better the quality of those watches are compared to what is being made now.

[@oneuer]

Great review of the Vostok Amphibia - thank you Teddy! I am addicted by divers and own already some very nice Vostok models. I liked this particular one immediately when I watched your review but it was difficult to find one in Germany, even my local Vostok dealer had no stock. Finally I found exactly that watch at an online store in Russia and hope it arrives before Christmas. Great Channel, I love watching your reviews and to learn about watches of all kinds.

[@robbieburke5123]

Nice to see you covering a brand that are completely different to your normal reviews. Keep up the good work 👍🏻

[@nathanwayne6673]

It took so long to arrive because it's Russian......in Russia you don't order watch....in Russia watch orders you 🤨

[@canadianwatchmonkey3992]

Be careful Vostok watches are highly addictive! Really the Amphibia is the Russian version of the SKX. The SKX is a much more refined watch no doubt but the Amphibia has it’s own charm.

[@royfarrand1268]

It's always a tough choice between my Amphibia 710 and my SKX175. Love them both!

[@canadianwatchmonkey3992]

@@royfarrand1268 check out my review of the skx 175 on my KZbin channel “THE WATCH MONKEY’” love that watch.

[@bri13wvu1]

I've had an skx and worked on several 7s26 movements, and this vostok mvt sure doesn't look any worse than the seiko at first glance from this video. Waiting to get mine in the mail and then we'll see. I doubt the Seiko is going to be much more refined though!

[@canadianwatchmonkey3992]

@@bri13wvu1 very true the Seiko movements are not very special to look at that is for sure.

[@Chino780]

Do you know of a reputable online retailer?

[@MrMcGuy]

For me Vostoks are not 'entry' or 'look back' pieces. Each that I have makes the watch rotation within my collection along with multi-thousand dollar watches. I appreciate them for exactly what they are, and find them incredibly interesting and cool. As my high-end watch collection grows, I still go back to Vostok on a regular basis as a daily / weekly wear.

[@uncleterry2148]

Just received two Amphibia models I ordered from Vostok in Chistopol. Delivery time was 42 days and although I had a tracking number, there was a three week period where it dropped off the radar. In the end I received the order and couldn’t be happier.

[@ArtyomPersidskyTube]

Hi there. Its so nice to hear from you about Vostok!!! Im Russian...Live in Saint Petersburg. Run my own channel about watches, but in Russian language :) And I did mention your channel in my recent video reviewing bloggers) Well, just wanted to say hello.... From Russia with love! BTW we watch you here in Russia too))

[@rickross5949]

Do you know where to purchase this exact watch from? Thanks in advance

[@ArtyomPersidskyTube]

@@rickross5949 vostokwatch.ru/products/chasy-naruchnye-amfibiya-120509 I guess this is it

[@rickross5949]

@@ArtyomPersidskyTube Thanks for the fast response! It’s very similar, (same case & band), but the face is different. His gas no numbers, just arrows. I like it much better. If you can find it please send the link. Thanks again man!

[@ArtyomPersidskyTube]

@@rickross5949 probably this particular watch is not available now. But there are a lot of options and variations… and maybe in the future they will be listed again

[@rickross5949]

@@ArtyomPersidskyTube Weird I was just on meranom.com and couldn’t find it but Google searched it and found it on there for $75. Just gotta figure out how to checkout in Russian 😅

[@typhoon20724]

Vostok Anphibia watches are the AK-47 of the watch world. Nice review btw, now one for the Sturmanskie please 😁👍

[@Zundfolge]

I would liken wearing a Vostok to EDCing a Makarov (which I have done in the past).

[@shilvock22]

I was thinking this exact same thing while viewing this video.

[@zoha605]

Like a china AK.

[@happysatishthapar2383]

Vostok amphibia watches 70$ i love everything in the video .. i like to buy asap ..

[@Andrew__Smith]

Guys!!! ANY “Vostok”- it is LOTTERY! Not bad watch if you IMMEDIATELY (yes BRAND NEW, NEVER USED) give them for maintenance to specialist.

[@JimboXiii]

I'm not sure if you pick up on comments on old uploads or not but just wanted to say thank you. Via whatever algorithm youtube uses, this video ended up being recommended to me. I'd never heard of Vostoks before or really considered myself a watch collector or enthusiast. I've always worn a watch since being about 10, and still have all the watches I've owned since being 18 (so, 20 years and a bit of change) but never thought about watches as anything else but something I wear. The hours of watching your videos and others on youtube, and looking at different websites, and on Reddit and just revisiting the pieces I already have in my collection (didn't even realise I had a collection until recently) has firmly made me a watch enthusiast. I am now proudly wearing my first automatic watch, the Vostok Amphibia 120656 "Scuba Dude" and I could not be happier with it. Thank you, Teddy.

[@PirArkam]

You are indeed the leading watch channels. Your passion is the reason and love ur videos.. now if i have to add watch in my collection, i check on you to reaffirm if the watch iam buying is good.. if there is a watch u didnt cover, i hesitate to buy

[@stuart150]

Really enjoyed hearing Teddy in his "Nomos, Glashutte, Sinn" voice, discussing an Amphibia! Incredible photography, worth comparing with the photos on Meranom!

[@ryejack]

I own a Vostok from the early 90s and I love that thing. It's such a quirky timepiece that still works after all this time. I'm also about to start my journey into modding them. I recently purchased an amphibian and now looking at parts online.

[@markweisman6326]

Great review! My lume experience with my Amphibia has been excellent. I briefly blast it with a small, powerful flashlight before bed and it's still bright at 5am.

[@chunkhenderson1878]

I just got my first Vostok today. A Kommandirskie on a NATO strap. I love it. Thanks for the introduction.

[@mike0400]

Vostok is the soviet version of Swatch: you may get a whole collection with different cases and dials for not that much money and it will be really fun

[@roberth7054]

As a casual Swatch collector (approx 30 models), I concur. These look fun - maybe even more durable and serviceable as the majority of Swatch are plastic and sealed

[@oscarosullivan4513]

@@roberth7054 And have water resistance

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Very good comparison. Very true!

[@petertakacs8046]

Luch is the soviet Swatch but Vostok is a close second.

[@oscarosullivan4513]

@Seaworth Many have yet to fail

[@tizombie]

Great post Teddy. As a Vostok fanboy, I appreciate the respect you gave the brand. Thank you.

[@comrade__945]

Comrade,have to mention you are a legend, this brand was my first mechanical watch ,got it from my grandpa in 1994 and still have it ,accuracy is not perfect but it's understoryable.,very affordable and nice watch .

[@TheTedMeister]

Thank you for showing a watch that you don't sell. You are a very important resource and advocate for this great hobby.

[@bruceleroy8063]

I look forward to the day when I forget I ordered a watch lol

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Hahaha doesn’t happen often

[@kingadjust5422]

@@TeddyBaldassarre wassup teddy!!!

[@Mr-Safology]

That's happened once. I ordered a San Martin bronze watch. 5 weeks later, got a letter from royal mail, stating that I have not collected my parcel and there is a custom charge. It felt as if someone gave me a birthday gift, though moments later realised I paid for it. 😂👌🏼

[@garyboyle695]

@@kingadjust5422 How's your Hublow?

[@svencorstjens966]

What’s your opinion on the Vostok classic 170548 “AMPHIBIANERAI”

[@markdd2142]

Teddy you continue to come up with some remarkable finds in the watch world. Now I am going to look into getting of these unique pieces.

[@sunglee2048]

Received my Vostoks (yes two) and I love their quirky nature. I particularly love the green/blue face. Setting the date is unique. Wind hand forward until date changes then wind the minute hand backward pass the 9 O'Clock position and then wind forward pass 12 O'Clock position to advance the date. Otherwise, just keep winding forward until the date changes! Like I said, quirky, but love it!

[@donaldleejc]

Stumbled upon this video and THANK YOU, love the simple basic design. I will most definitely get one.

[@suheilkaspar8885]

Vostok is originality and character, and that ring on the back cover is really ingenious .. It's the feeling that you're wearing something really unique with a strong character at an incredible price !. Thank you Teddy for being such an honest, unbiased, watch fan.

[@ram281009]

Agreed, same goes for the acrylic dome, it will resist underwater pressure by giving in

[@daveinthemedctr6640]

Teddy - Your work and your company's work is nothing less than extraordinary! Your passion and love for watches is infectious! You'll never work a day in your life! Thanks for the introduction to this series.

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Appreciate you my friend! Having a blast doing what I do 🙌🏻

[@steve-wu7jp]

Vostock watches are great, once you get one it's easy to get a few in the collection for not a lot of money. They represent a fantastic value with all the heritage .

[@ThatstheWatch]

I can see you really like the Vostok. The smile on your face near the end of the video tells it all.

[@brianrusso8018]

Im a habbyist watchmaker and have had many Vostoks on my bench. They are absolutely workhorses and you nailed it. They are just FUN! They are easy to work on and many can be regulated to within +-10 seconds a day. Great value even if just a EDC beater. And the mod capabilities are endless.

[@brianmsahin]

I want a Vostok!! I will definitely be getting one shortly, a must have for watch collectors! Excellent video. 👏👏

[@jkr3008]

I've had a few of those, both soviet & new ones. They're very popular in post-soviet countries due to the fact that they're not only affordable robust watches - but you can also fix & maintain them in every village, literally. Vostok also makes relatively expensive (in comparison to this one) watches, which are pretty accurate and look very well. (for instance - K39 series) I'd also recommend looking at Lithuanian "Vostok-Europe" factory, which uses their mechanisms with cases of their own design. Had a chance to own one of them, Ekranoplan automatic 200m diver, for a few years - an extremely interesting piece as well. Thanks for the review!

[@gaylemcgee2221]

Simply put, Vostok watches are fun. They have so much variety that everyone can find one they would wear. I love mine. It took awhile to reach me because it was sent back to the company but it was sent to me again and I have it. Thanks to the HR woman there. The Amphibian you have is a good looking dress watch. They just keep getting better looking. Nice video.

[@BenOwen152]

I have many watches, but my cheap little Vostok has a special place in my heart and gets worn regularly. Partly because it makes me smile every time I look down, and partly because I hate when it stops and I need to reset the date, which is a pain in the A!

[@TheMightyJoggernaut]

I can only emphasize the second half of your statement. Better to not let too many days pass in between

[@clange50]

@@TheMightyJoggernaut Just spun one up after like 10 days (or 40?). It's definitely not a quick thing, getting that date right!

[@fishmeister2625]

One of the reasons why I just purchased this model, no date to keep catching up with whenever the watch goes out of rotation for a few days or more.

[@gerardogarcia-trio3572]

I love them, they are produced like when they were created, when the divers were tools, it's like a living fossil. Nice review, I like the conclusions.

[@paulthompson9062]

As soon as I saw this watch I had to buy one. It took me a couple of weeks of searching the Internet to finally find this exact model that was in stock. Eventually I found a guy selling this model only ten miles from my house! Not the normal price bracket I'd buy at, but I love this watch! Thanks for doing this video!

[@christianluviano8838]

This is why I follow this channel. He understands what the ppl love without bias.

[@hanzkammler6388]

I look at my vostoks as I looked at my AK 47 back in the army. Staring at it, enjoying its curves, it's imperfections and its functionality. Lovely tool.

[@jeffsherk7056]

Just ordered my first Vostok, and can't wait for it to arrive. I really enjoy Citizen Eco-Drive watches, but when I heard a watch maker say good things about the Vostok movement and saw that these are really water resistant to 800 meters, I had to try one. I enjoy watches that have white faces with black numbers, but these are usually found on dress watches, not dive watches. Vostok has one with a white 24 hour dial and black numbers, and that is the one I chose.

[@pekkajaaskelainen4377]

Thanks for a great review, I agree completely with you. I've had Amphibias for many years, and they are great watches. Reliable, tough (waterproof and probably bombproof, though I haven't tested the latter), easy to wear and of course cheap. It's a watch you can wear without worries in all kinds of physically demanding activities. If it gets a few scratches, who cares. Accuracy of the Vostok movement is also interesting. Out of the box, they typically seem to run too fast, maybe +20 to +30 s/day. But you can very easily regulate the Vostok yourself (don't need any fancy equipment), and you can make it run very accurately - even surprisingly so, considering the low price.

[@jarazimmerman3400]

I can honestly not believe the accuracy of mine. It's +3 s a day out of the box. Set it once per week and it's fine for me. How they do it at that price I'll never know.

[@Tribalius]

@@jarazimmerman3400 Hahahaha without COSC

[@eduardopinto8816]

Just got mine...after 2 months....totally worth the wait, LOVE IT

[@a1d3nh0]

My 2nd Vostok arrived 1 hour before your video went live. My 3rd has been on the way for weeks. Great watches :-)

[@Max.Effect]

I really appreciate the design of these watches. Diver spec, affordable, you can wear it and forget it all the day, doesnt matter your activities because it is not precious. So you live things with it, and that is why you'll love it more and more.

[@KwangTheMongrel]

My grandfather bought me one maybe 20 years ago and it still works fine. Found this video because I’m looking for a new one and this video was great.

[@fireonetwoable]

I've been a fan of Vostok for years but never got round to buying one. Thanks to Teddy I think that time had come

[@calebnewton_]

I have the same case and bezel with a white dial. I ordered a manual movement and a flat caseback to swap with the stock version in order to decrease that 15mm height. If I can feel confident buying parts and removing hands and dials to mod it to that level, it's a win in my book. I think that summarizes the appeal of these workhorse watches.

[@youraveragepasser-by7367]

Where did you order those parts from!

[@mahemo42]

Same, they're really fun + easy to mod and look stunning. Not much you can do wrong. I changed caseback, crown, hands, and bezel + brushed the case and swapped movement to a manual old komandirskie one (though you can get a new manual too or remove rotor + change the barrel to prevent overwinding). If you want to retain an exhibition caseback but don't like the heights of the Vostok ones I can recommend this mod: www.watchuseek.com/threads/in-which-a-display-back-is-made.903489/

[@calebnewton_]

@@youraveragepasser-by7367 Meranom, they seem to be the best source in my experience.

[@sportsguy2891]

@@mahemo42 Would i have to change the movement to go to a flat caseback? I am a newbie.

[@mahemo42]

@@sportsguy2891 if you want to use the flat caseback with the default automatic movement you'll need to take off the rotor as otherwise the movement is too thick. Takes 1min and is super easy.

[@mdunawaym]

Great strap choice!

[@jeanmartox3570]

hello to France! My Vostok Amphibia 710640 take 20 second / 24 hours to factory, and now take 12 second / 24 h! thank's for your revue!! God Bless you!

[@dr.davidmiller6682]

I feel the same way about my Orient Bambinos. Solidly made decent looking watches that I just don’t have to worry about! I totally get the Vostok!

[@justinsaunders4068]

Perfect watches for learning how to mod, service movements and probably the best "beaters"

[@Javi_C]

Photography is on point Teddy!!

[@TimBee100]

One thing about these watches is that if your watch is running fast, you can take off the case back and adjust it. Like owning a car in the 1960s and adjusting the carbs, but hopefully not as complicated. Plus, you can change bezels and even put on an exhibition case back if you want to spend a little money.

[@geoffyoung7822]

Just bought this watch from a UK seller £70 brand new . On the back of your review. Can't wait for it to come.

[@russellschaper-kotter7783]

Yes! Great review man!

[@Rogeras32]

Seeing the Chistopol' factory get that much recognition among watch enthusiasts around the world makes me so proud of my fellow Russians. And a proud Scuba Dude owner :D Great content, Teddy!

[@henryalvarez6284]

I have the same one and I really love it. I was able to regulate it to about +2 to 4 seconds a day by only using the watch accuracy app an watching a KZbin video on how to regulate a watch.

[@edwerdnorton]

Just got my amphibia. Shipped from US to Dubai and from there to Pakistan ❤ thank you for introducing me to this masterpiece

[@RacnJasn]

Love mine, I wear it quite a bit despite owning much more expensive watches. Why? Like the man said, they’re fun and when it’s noticed, it has an interesting story and history. Thanks for giving us a great video explaining this cool watch. Sharing this link with many friends!

[@NobodyYouknow-fl2tw]

After watching this video, I ordered the exact model Teddy reviewed. It arrived today, and I couldn’t be happier. It’s truly a stunner in person and fun to wear! I don’t mind the rubber strap from the factory. I find it comfortable and one of the more pliable rubber straps I have, plus it looks good! I’ll leave it on for a while. I took off my Speedmaster and put this on and my wrist didn’t miss a beat. Definitely worth the small investment in a unique timepiece.

[@sheleshrauthan5912]

can you share me the model link from the website ?

[@dofler]

Link please?

[@ECHOXMIKE]

Just got mine in the mail, got a similar but different dial, I absolutely love it. Real quality for the price

[@markknight3983]

Hello Teddy, Great review - I use my Vostok every day and it hasn't missed a beat.

[@marlboro9tibike]

Vostok was my first automatic watch and I wore it daily more than 7 years. From there now I have more others, but Amphibia is like a first kiss, you never forget it.

[@cecilyau4440]

The stars have aligned. I’ve been aware of Vostoks for a while now due to reviewers like Jody (JOMW), but I didn’t buy my first one until yesterday. And today, Teddy does a Vostok vid! Oh, Sweet Validation!

[@davec4224]

How and where did you order

[@cecilyau4440]

@@davec4224 Hi, Dave! Go to online.vostokinc.com. I think it’s the factory store. Great selection and prices. Took about 3 weeks for delivery to the US. Pete at the “Chillin’ wit Watches” KZbin channel is a Vostokaholic, and he recommended this site. I have 3 Vostoks now and enjoy all of them. Good luck choosing, Dave!

[@mistadopeman]

This is a very nice channel. It’s just always pleasant to hear me talk about watches. Great job here, sir.

[@surrogatechannel]

14:51 Bought my first watch in Dec 2022, a Vostok Amphibia. Great so far, and the start of my collection. Thanks Teddy for the great vids!

[@ahmeda4792]

Still recommend?

[@russianwithevgeniy]

It's a very good review, thank you for posting! It's amazing how you managed to share with us the simple but stoic spirit of this watch. What do you think about their "retro" series?

[@vuklozo]

Love mine. One of the best purchases I've made. I will be customizing it soon as well. Great video Teddy!

[@TeddyBaldassarre]

Thanks for watching and the comment 🙌🏻

[@tyrewald9083]

Have a Seiko licence built, 27 years old. Day/date, around 30$. Working without maintenance! Would like to know about the longevity of such a Russian watch.

[@rupanterchhabra8484]

Hey, any links from where I can purchase this? Thanks

[@vuklozo]

@@tyrewald9083 Vostok claim that the watches need servicing after 10 years. I can't confirm that as I own mine for a few months only, but a few watchmakers I've been to did tell me that they're incredibly durable with some of them working even after 20, 30 years (speaking of the USSR made ones of course).

[@crazysheepfilms]

I moded mine with a signed crown, a new bezel and a gray NATO and man it looks the part. I think they have one of the most straightforward, yes even beautiful case designs ever (case 420). I also love the almost ridiculous height - it's perfect for a tool watch to tuck over your sleeve and keep the time always legible. Happy to have gone for an Amphibia over a now overpriced SKX. Enjoy the moding!!

[@christopherstombaugh6004]

Wonderful review, Teddy! I’ll be getting new straps for my Vostoks from you.

[@babychuma1]

It wasn't this video but mentioned on another and inspired me to order the amphibia with the dive guy on it. I have a Seiko 5 sport from '96 and a citizen ecco chronograph but always regretted not buying a Russian watch I saw when I was on a trip to Alaska. Love Soviet nostalgia and I'm super psyched, thanks for cluing me in..

[@darraghtyrrell9240]

Already on a waitlist for the Zissou, can’t wait but have been told not to hold my breath! Great video man.

[@MyEnemy]

How's that going?

[@darraghtyrrell9240]

@@MyEnemy still waiting!

[@koustubhmoharil7742]

A $70 quirky watch with a great story! Loved this review of the amphibia.

[@d.pierce.6820]

I've had Vostoks for many years, but I set them aside for other watches. Lately, I started thinking I might get a new one, and looked at them online. I didn't order one, but I walked into a thrift store today, and they had a tray full of NOS watches someone had donated. Among the dreck were four Amphibians, and three Komanderskies (sp?). They were all brand new, with all paperwork and protective film coverings-$12 each. I bought them all! Why, I don't know, but they appeal to me.

[@vitmat7779]

The Engineering behind this watch- is Domed Stracture as the watch goes deeper under water and Pressure increases so does the Seal around Acrylic Glass and back domed metal plate Water pressure increases Seal and also strength of watch it self. I have same Amphibia Watch for 6 years and it’s running great , also you can manually wind mechanism via crown

[@arkajyotijha3291]

I really wanted to get a Vostok, but with import prices to India, it makes it a pretty unreasonable buy, unfortunately. Plan to get my hands on this someday though!

[@jimmylives]

What's the price in Dubai

[@anveshapkari5149]

Just order from meranom, no extra shipping or import charges

[@ygrbooks]

Having watched your video, I had to order one (though not for the $78 you mention, rather double that). It has just arrived and I can totally see why you love it. I do, too. It is just a wonderful piece of watch-making history and very cool at that. Thank you for bringing this to my attention and keep up your good work. I wish you all the best.

[@yiannismerianos]

To me the most honest dive watch In the market! Great price, lots of parts for customization.

[@BalafreX]

I liked this reedition of 60 's model with acrylic glass and diver's water resistance. Thanks Teddy.

[@TimeWAR_TV]

Восток- это дешево и сердито! Но они настолько родные, настолько пропитаны духом времени, что их просто нереально не любить!

[@nicholastucker1966]

I wear my Vostok more than my Tudor or omega and love it. It is indistructable and keeps perfect time.

[@AndreAndre-yd5gw]

I had mine for over 15 years now. It's a 420 model with a very conservative dial on a light gray nato strap that badly needs a replacement. I love the 60's styling and would have to spend at least 1k usd to be able to replace it with a supercompressor of my liking. This watch is easy and cheap to mod with many available bezels. It is very durable and built like a T72 tank. I like inexpensive things that last and this watch is one of those.

[@luisroman8674]

I'm ordering one right now. Great review. This watch is exactly what im looking for in a daily. Thank you

[@luisroman8674]

I received mine and couldn't be happier with it. My watch range from Tudor, Seiko, Invicta and Casio. I love my Volstok. I can't seem to take it off. I recommend getting one. I got mine from Ebay thru Volstok. It took about 3 weeks to arrive.

[@steveoc64]

1 year later, and the Vostoks are getting tricky to order direct from the factory ... for various reasons. Glad I collected up with models and spare parts when I could. Hopefully things get back to normal soon enough.

[@oggaspack7971]

Please help me out! Where can I purchase authentic vostoks online? I live in the USA.

[@mrsentencename7334]

i just ordered two to the uk from meranom and after a few weeks they turned up. Cost me like $180 for two including shipping

[@steveoc64]

@@mrsentencename7334 oh that's brilliant ! Nice work. Good to know that sanity prevails in the watch industry then. Just the way it should be. They have a wide range of accessory bits and bobs to modify amphibias as well - keen to order some in to do some creative mods.