Just Landed: The NEW Certina DS-2 Chronograph Watch
Monday - 24 April 2023
Certina releases two DS 2 Chronograph watches, based on a design concept from the 1970s - the DS 2 Chronolympic watch worn for the summit and the descent of the world’s largest mountain.
If you were around in 1970, you may remember the time that Japanese daredevil, Yuichiro Miura raced 2000 meters down the face of Mt Everest with Certina’s DS 2 Chronolympic watch attached to his wrist. The event was documented in The Man Who Skied Down Everest, cementing the brand’s reputation for developing resilient, robust and reliable wristwatches. He reached speeds of up to 160 km/h that were broken only by the use of a parachute. The DS 2 Chronolympic watch followed in the footsteps of the earlier DS 1 watch developed in 1959. In its name – a clue to the shock, dust and water-resistant design of its case – DS meaning Double Security.
Robustness and reliability of the highest standards…
For over 60 years, Certina has been manufacturing wristwatches to standards that meet the highest demands. The DS concept was initiated in 1959 and has been adapted over the years to reflect the latest innovations in technical standards. The DS concept has not only been enjoyed by professional skiers, however. Daring explorers, deep-sea divers and mountaineers have all relied upon the robustness and durability of a Certina DS watch case. Each watch undergoes extensive strength tests before proving itself an ideal companion for all eventualities. To pass as a DS watch, a Certina model must offer anti-magnetism properties in the form of Nivachron movement components and a suitable level of water resistance that simultaneously says something about the overall design of the watch - not just its use as a diving companion. A DS watch must also promise longevity on the wrist. The turtle symbol has become synonymous with this quality in a Certina watch since as early as the 1960s. The watch must also protect the internally fitted movement, which controls the accuracy of time from the impacts of shock. This quality in a Certina watch goes hand-in-hand with values of robustness, making every timepiece a confident companion for every demanding situation.
The new Certina DS 2 Chronograph watch
The new DS 2 Chronograph from Certina is an evolution of the earlier released DS 2 Powermatic 80 watch collection and features a tonneau-shaped stainless steel case or yellow gold PVD-coated steel. Correct for the period in which it is inspired, the two options come with a different dial. Whilst the stainless steel model boasts a deep midnight blue dial colour, the yellow gold-coated option tells the time on a rich green display. Both watches feature a bicompax chronograph dial layout with sub-counters offering a 30-minute function at 3 o’clock and a small seconds counter at 9 o’clock. The sub-counters are filled in with a contrasting silver colour, whilst a date feature framed in white lives at 6 o’clock. These new Certina DS 2 Chronograph watches certainly create a sporty and bold character on the wrist. The deep blue version rocks a vibrant yellow-coated central chronograph seconds hand with attractive red elements seen on the 30-minute counter.
The new Certina DS 2 Chronograph watch features a white tachymeter scale around the edge of the dial and both models measure a diameter 43.3mm. The cases sit at a height of 15.25mm and are topped with a sapphire crystal glass front to improve the robustness of the dial as well as offering a clear view of the display. Whether you choose the stainless steel model with an urban blue dial or the yellow gold PVD-coated stainless steel model with a sporty deep green dial, both options promise a water resistance of 200 meters, proving practical for a dip in the sea whilst on vacation or a quick swim after a session at the gym. Each model is equipped with a screw-down crown nestled between two polished push pieces at 2 and 4 o’clock and features a screw-in caseback with a piece of sapphire crystal glass to use as an exhibition window through to the heart of the watch.
Here, you’ll be granted a clear view of an update from the former Valjoux 7750 with the ETA A05.231 automatic movement. The cam and lever-operated chronograph movement promises a power reserve of 68 hours and an anti-magnetic silicon hairspring that promises a longer lifespan. Whilst the blue dial version beckons the light to dance upon its mix of brushed and polished case finishes, the yellow gold model is more luxurious with yellow-coloured hour markers and hands that interact beautifully with the shade of green chosen by Certina for the display.
You can enjoy the tonneau-shaped Certina DS 2 Chronograph watches on a brown leather strap for the yellow gold-coloured model and a blue fabric strap with yellow contrast stitching running down its sides. For more information on either of the two new DS 2 Chronograph watches by Certina, you can discuss the models with a member of our sales team here at Jura Watches on 01335 453453.
