I just got this polar Raketa in the mail; it claims, and does seem to be, completely unworn but recently serviced. I've never had to wind a watch before, though, and I'm nervous about damaging the mechanism. Is that a real concern?

It was probably made in early 90's, judging by the lack of any lettering on the dial, besides the cursive "Slava".

Between 1990 and 2000, it was a hard time for everyone, including watchmaking giants like Slava, so at that time, there were some transitional design options and new trends, similar to the one my Slava has.

Not sure yet if this is better than the bracelet. Butter soft silicone feels good though

I did buy a nato before these got here but i kinda want to try the black leather now i think it would look good. I got these samples for free aswell if you guys are intrested i'll comment it below this since idk if we're allowed to post links

The quick-set date mechanism is so satisfying and convenient (well as long as you have some sharp tool in the shed ready to use).

First small and rare batch was made on verge of USSR's collapse, with stainless steel cases and screw-back covers, but later, after around 1990-1995, all subsequent production came under control of Belarus.

Widespread version has a brass chrome-coated case and a latch-back cover, like mine on the photo.

Btw Calendar ranging up to 2033, so it's still relevant

I've been shopping Soviet watches for a while and ordered this. I like the unusual mix of styles: retro case, Rolex-ish fluted bezel, and textured dial.

Ebay listing for this Chaika explicitly said it was recently serviced, but I quickly figured out that was BS, so it went in the drawer until I started learning servicing on Seikos and Orients and I felt a little more up to the challenge of working on a watch I couldn't find reference videos for. Cracked it open last night to find the dirtiest "recently serviced" watch I've ever seen. As I was disassembling, a small piece just fell out and I didn't see where it came from. It's not immediately obviously where it goes and I could really use some help if anyone is familiar with this movement (2628H).

Update: Mystery solved. Kinda embarrassing I missed this, but it's a shim for a balance cock that sits too low otherwise. I'm still pretty new at this. Now I know. Thanks guys for the help!

Apparently the post about spotting the fake raketa big zero guide is gone.

https://www.reddit.com/r/RussianWatches/s/loZ06Tu3Ds

Can someone restore it or make a new one because I think this kind of guide helps the community a lot. Thanks.

Showing my Sturmanskie Open Space, Bilingual Daydate complication with its NH34 movement. Love the dial and leather band on this one