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Yay!
I think we should stick to minimum questions, which can bring maximum information for us. Domi's questionnaire is OK to me, I didn't consider the soviet-staff and reissue of the round Amphibia. Could we add:
- Is there ongoing development of new mechanical movement (quick date-set, chrono, etc)?
- Does Vostok consider subcontracting some activities of complete chain (like they now produce even the ruby-jewels in their Briolet sub-brand)? <- This can be merged with Domi's question about the watch cases.

Dr.Watchmaker, thank you for this initiative! Could you please explain us in addition, what is the relation between ОАО Чистопольский часовой завод "Восток" and Vostok International LTD?

 

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I think we should stick with the questions, not with terms of treaty
Otherwise, this is more or less everyone of Vostok enthusiast is interested. The questions of Domi will give the intention of Vostok for Mister Mike's points (some of them), and will indirectly give feedback to the guys what the public is interested for. Then, it is up to their management how they will lead the company.
BTW, I think slight price increase could be acceptable if the quality is more sustainable. This will attract the attention of more Orient and Seiko fans to Vostok (as the risk for warranty issue is higher with Vostok, even by design Vostok is more robust).

 

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One more question - there was an article in Russian, that Vostok is going to be supplier to Russian army again. The contract was expected to end of 2009:
- Is there any progress with Russian army contract for military watches?

 

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Some news from Vostok guys? This delay is worried us even more

 

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Today I visit Vostok site, and it said "Сайт временно отключен", which means - "The site is temporary unavailable". Let's hope it will appear again with new design and good news.

 

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Nor English, nor Russian are my native languages, but as first attempt (not direct translation):
Q: Vitaliy, there are rumors around, that Vostok is in difficult financial situation. Is it true?
A: As the previous manager of the factory, Mr.Tsivilin was in retirement age since two years, but continue to actively lead the company, he finally decided to step out of his duties. Currently he is still at the position of counselor in the company. As the new general manager was appointed one of his former substitutes of one of the directions in the factory - Mr.Puchov.
As for the current financial status of Vostok - it is not perfect of course, and in addition we have a lot of delayed payments of Russian customers of the factory.

 

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From here it seems that the Vostok company asked for their own bankruptcy alone. It could be either people in the management with "special mission" to kill the factory, or it is a move to save themselves from creditors until they go back in business.

 

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