The Sovietski Collection had some great stuff in the early-'90s. Soviet surplus stuff, Eastern Europe stuff, even some Western European militaria. Want a real cosmonaut space suit or MiG pilot’s helmet? They had 'em. It’s where I got my ‘Captain Ramius’ ushanka. They started carrying more Russian folk art, clothing, jewelry, etc. and changed their name to Siegler & Co and then Treasures From A Bygone Era. The non-military stuff didn’t interest me (although I wouldn’t have minded a samovar). In a web article, it was stated that they went under ‘before the holidays’. (The article is dated January 2007.)
Who’s selling Eastern Bloc/Cold War Western European surplus now?
I used to get that catalog as well, I am sorry they folded I was wondering why I no longer received it. I liked the Soviet Naval Flags and the officer coats and hats.
I have the large Soviet Naval High Command flag from them. It’s awesome. A few other things too. I’m sorry that I didn’t get the tankers helmet when I had the chance.
There’s a really great communist era junk shop in Sofia. I ALMOST got a copy of the Bulgarian Communist Party Handbook I found there, but I didn’t have enough cash on me at the time and forgot later. Still regret it.
The bazaar in Sarajevo is is full of Yugoslav and Tito tchotchkes.
I got a number of pocket watches from Sovietski before they went under. A few other items as well. Loved their catalogs. Who else would list ejection seats from a Mig-29?
I’m in the office today, so I don’t have audio. I’ll have to watch it when I get home. But I don’t think that would be the sort of thing most places would stock in their mail-order catalogues!
For whatever reason, no. Maybe it’s the glut of Soviet castoffs or somesuch, but there is a certain desire for some folks out there for Soviet stuff.
Personally, I have to admit, you’re comment has made me think about my own fixation with such things. Before this, if I had found a way to get a Soviet tunic (uniform top) that would fit, or an officers coat, I would have jumped at the chance.