Celebrating a Legacy: The Raketa Big Zero Brother 2 Watch Commemorates Russian Cinema
Founded in 1961, the Raketa Watch Factory in Saint Petersburg remains a jewel in the crown of Russian horology. Not only does this historic establishment produce every component of its watches entirely in-house, but it also has managed to carve out a niche for itself by marrying traditional craftsmanship with innovative design. The factory has become emblematic of Russian watchmaking, celebrated for its bold and unique aesthetic—most notably exemplified by its iconic Big Zero model. Recently, Raketa has expanded its offerings with a special limited edition timepiece that pays homage to an influential classic in Russian cinema: the Big Zero Brother 2.
This remarkable piece is a creative collaboration between Raketa and CTB Film Company, a prestigious production studio in Russia. This partnership marks the 25th anniversary of Aleksei Balabanov’s cult classic film “Brat,” commonly known as “Brother,” and its highly regarded sequel, “Brat 2.” The narrative of these films has resonated deeply within post-Soviet culture, particularly through the character Danila Bagrov, whose journey captured the imagination of a generation grappling with newfound societal complexities. The Brother saga embodies themes of morality, loyalty, and the quest for truth, making this watch not just a timekeeping device, but a tribute to a pivotal moment in Russian cinematic history.
A Closer Look at the Timepiece
The Big Zero Brother 2 is housed in a robust 40 mm stainless steel case, measuring 14.05 mm in thickness for a sturdy yet elegant profile. Its design is both functional and thoughtful, featuring a sapphire crystal to protect the dial and a contrasting mineral glass back that showcases the craftsmanship within. The crown of the watch is adorned with a ruby stone, enhancing its allure. As a practical feature, the timepiece boasts a water resistance rating of up to 100 meters, combining aesthetics with everyday usability.
The matte black dial is a signature characteristic of the Big Zero series, embellished with oversized white numerals for enhanced readability. The design subtlety references the film that inspired it, with red accents on the “2” and “5,” symbolizing the 25th anniversary of “Brother 2.” To ensure visibility in low-light conditions, the hands and indices are coated with Super-LumiNova, reflecting Raketa’s commitment to functional elegance.
The Heart of the Watch
What lies beneath the surface is equally impressive. The timepiece is powered by Raketa’s proprietary Calibre 2615, a self-winding automatic movement developed entirely within the walls of the Saint Petersburg factory. Operating at a frequency of 18,000 vibrations per hour (2.5 Hz), it provides an impressive power reserve of 40 hours, ensuring that wearers can rely on their watch to keep accurate time, a hallmark of Raketa’s engineering prowess.
The watch is complemented by a genuine leather strap that features a quick-change system, allowing for easy personalization. Inscribed upon the strap is the memorable quote “Sila v pravde” (“Strength lies in truth”), borrowed directly from the film, further underscoring the symbolic connection between the watch and its cinematic inspiration.
Limited Edition Appeal
The Big Zero Brother 2 is exceptionally exclusive, with only 50 individually numbered pieces available. Each watch is thoughtfully packaged in a unique case resembling a VHS tape, inscribed with “Брат 2-25,” reinforcing its status as a collector’s item. Priced at €2,000—approximately AED 9,890—this limited edition timepiece is as much a piece of art as it is a functional accessory, melding cultural significance with horological excellence.
Conclusion
As Raketa expands its vision beyond national borders, the Big Zero Brother 2 stands as a testament not only to Russian craftsmanship but also to the enduring influence of culture on design. With its combination of rich narrative, striking aesthetics, and impeccable engineering, this timepiece is poised to become a cherished object for both watch enthusiasts and film aficionados alike.
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