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Certina - History, Models and Owners' Reviews

4.3

(11 Reviews)

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Founded in 1888 in Grenchen, Switzerland, by Adolf and Alfred Kurth, Certina is a renowned Swiss watch brand, appreciated for its quality watches, precision and sporty style. Certina has quickly become a benchmark in the watch industry thanks to its commitment to quality and sustainability.

History of the Certina brand

The history of Certina is closely linked to the evolution of Swiss watchmaking. At the time of its creation, the brand focused on the production of high-precision watch movements and components. However, it was in the 1930s that Certina began manufacturing its own complete watches.

During the first decades, Certina gradually strengthened its reputation as a manufacturer of reliable and precise watches. In 1959, the brand introduced the iconic "DS" (Double Security) collection. Certina's DS watches were renowned for their exceptional resistance to shock, pressure, water and temperature variations, thanks to technical innovations and advanced manufacturing techniques. This collection marked a turning point in the brand's history, and Certina's DS watches became synonymous with extreme robustness and reliability.

Over the years, Certina has maintained its commitment to performance and sustainability, while developing its distinctive sporty aesthetic. The brand has expanded its presence in the world of sport by becoming an official partner of various sporting events and federations, including the International Cycling Union (UCI) and the World Rally Championship. This association with prestigious sporting competitions has strengthened Certina's image as a brand of reliable and high-performance watches.

Certina has also pioneered the use of ball bearing rotor technology in the automatic movements of its watches. This innovation significantly improved the reliability and precision of Certina watches, strengthening their appeal among mechanical watch enthusiasts.

What are the main Certina models?

Certina DS (Double Security)

The DS collection is Certina's iconic range, famous for its extreme resistance. DS watches are designed to withstand the harshest conditions, whether diving, mountains or other extreme environments. DS watches are equipped with features such as scratch-resistant sapphire crystals, screw-down crowns and special gaskets, ensuring maximum protection.

Certina DS Action 

The DS Action collection embodies the spirit of action and adventure. These watches are specially designed for lovers of water sports and outdoor activities. They offer water resistance up to 30 ATM meters, unidirectional rotating bezels for diving and great readability in all conditions.

Certina DS Podium

The DS Podium collection combines sportiness and elegance. These watches feature sophisticated dials, stainless steel cases and high-quality leather straps. The DS Podium collection is appreciated for its refined style which can be worn both on a daily basis and on special occasions.

Certina DS-1 

It is a classic and timeless model. This elegant watch features a minimalist dial, refined indexes and a leather or stainless steel bracelet. It is appreciated for its simplicity and sophistication, convincing lovers of classic watches.

Certina DS Rookie

The DS Rookie collection is specially designed for young fans of sports watches. These colorful and vibrant watches feature durable rubber straps, luminous dials and rugged features. They are perfect for accompanying young adventurers in their daily activities.

Certina has also offered other collections and special editions over the years, all representing the brand's commitment to performance, sustainability and sporty design.

How much does a Certina watch cost?

The prices of new Certina watches sold on the brand's website vary between $500 and $2,000 depending on the models and finishes. For example, count $980 for a Certina DS-1 and $1,100 for one Certina DS PH200M.

Certina: The choice of character and reliability    

Today, Certina continues to innovate in watchmaking technology and offers a wide range of high-quality watches. Whether you are an avid diver, an extreme sports enthusiast, or simply looking for a reliable and stylish watch, Certina offers a variety of choices to suit everyone's needs and preferences.

The Certina watches are trusted companions for adventurers and watch enthusiasts around the world. Their combination of performance, robustness and style makes them timepieces appreciated by watch enthusiasts. Discover the Certina collection and find the Certina that suits you using the Dialicious owners' reviews. Certina is part of the Ranking of most popular swiss watch brands.

(Updated April 2024)

Owner reviews summary on Certina

4.3

11 Reviews

4.0

Emotion

4.2

Design

4.3

Accuracy

4.3

Comfort

4.1

Robustness

4.7

Value for money

Secondary

Significance in a collection

Main

Rarely

Frequency to be worn

Often

Pleasure

Main motivation for buying

Investment

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Certina profile is based on 11 owner reviews

Latest reviews on Certina

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11

263

Certina DS-3: The Vintage Charm of the 70s

5.0

My Certina DS-3 is a watch that perfectly embodies the style and charm of the 70s, while remaining a timeless piece that crosses the decades without aging. This watch demonstrates the know-how of Certina, a Swiss brand that deserves much more recognition for the quality and innovation it brings. Design: A Journey into the 70s The 37 mm stainless steel case is a perfect example of the balance between elegance and robustness of the 70s. Its gently curved curves and sleek design allow the DS-3 to blend in perfectly with a variety of outfits, from classic suits to casual looks. The gradient color of the dial, between blue and silver, with its unique patina, evokes not only the era, but also a personal story for each watch. The contrast offered by the red date at 3 o’clock, in addition to being functional, adds a bold touch of color that recalls the bold design details of the 70s. The DS Series: A Guarantee of Resilience More than 60 years ago, Certina, founded in 1888, made watchmaking history by launching a revolutionary technical concept: the “floating movement” named DS, for Double Security. In 1959, the idea was to create the most robust and waterproof watch possible. Since then, the DS series has taken on a thousand faces, but its ideal of robustness and durability has remained unchanged. This innovation continues to be manifested in the DS-3, guaranteeing optimal protection of the movement against shocks and impacts. The DS-3 is therefore more than just a watch; it is a symbol of resilience and performance that confidently crosses the decades. Movement: The Excellence of Swiss Watchmaking The automatic caliber ETA 2784 is widely recognized in the watchmaking world for its reliability, precision and innovation. Its 45-hour power reserve and 28,800 A/h frequency not only ensure remarkable accuracy, but also a pleasant wearing experience thanks to the fluidity of the seconds hand. This attention to detail, typical of Swiss watchmaking, results in a watch that runs with almost perfectionist regularity. Bracelet: A Harmony of Comfort and Durability The solid steel bracelet is an integral part of the charm of this DS-3. Its robust design, with wide links, evokes solidity and comfort, while adding a touch of sophistication. This bracelet not only complements the case, it also enhances the wearing experience by combining style and functionality. Conclusion: A Timeless Classic The Certina DS-3 is more than a vintage watch, it is a timeless statement of quality and style. It embodies the spirit of the 70s while delivering modern performance. With its historical roots deeply rooted in the technical innovation of the DS series, the DS-3 is a must-have piece for any vintage watch enthusiast who appreciates both history and quality. It proves that, despite its underestimation, Certina deserves a place among the great Swiss watchmakers.

4 months ago

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1

294

Bambi are you there?

4.1

I didn't see myself wearing a gold world but the rose gold of this Certina convinced me otherwise. Its small second and the beginning of a Bambi patina finished convincing me. The transition to a midnight blue bracelet suits it perfectly. The indexes are just the index at 6 o'clock is the only negative note on the piece for me.

a year ago

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4

557

All titanium

4.3

It could have been that of Umberto Boccioni's Man in Motion (if he had arms). This watch by its dimensions deserves a solid wrist, it remains nevertheless light and comfortable. Only regret its luminescence is modest. With a NATO Omega 007 bracelet it gains in timelessness.

a year ago

All Certina models

Frequently Asked Questions about Certina

Owners' reviews for Certina are an excellent source of information to identify the Certina watch that suits you. The top 3 Certina models praised by 11 authentic brand owners are as follows: No.1 Certina DS-3, No.2 Certina DS-1 Big Date Powermatic 80, No.3 Certina DS PH200M. Check the list of the best Certina models ranked based on brand owners' reviews.
There are as many ways to love your Certina as there are models Certina. Each person appreciates their Certina DS-3 or Certina DS-1 Big Date Powermatic 80 according to their own criteria and how they appreciate a beautiful watch. Some will love their Certina DS PH200M because they find it Distinguished or Endearing, while others may find it Precise. Discover how owners love their Certina with the help of 11 authentic brand customer reviews.
The top 3 Certina models that customers have specifically purchased for investment are as follows: No.1 Certina DS-1, No.2 Certina DS Action Diver, No.3 Certina DS-1 Big Date Powermatic 80. However, investing in a Certina watch, like in other areas, is not an exact science, and it is important to be cautious before choosing one for investment. Feel free to consult multiple sources of information, including auction results, to track the value of Certina models.
Buying a Certina or another watch brand is a complex exercise that depends on many criteria. 11 authentic customers owning a Certina bought it, particularly because they were looking for a Distinguished, Endearing or Precise watch. Check Certina customer reviews to refine your preferences and find the Certina that suits you.
All tastes and colors are in nature, and everyone will appreciate a Certina watch according to their own aesthetic criteria. Certina offers many models particularly appreciated by owners for their design. The 3 most beautiful Certina watches according to 11 authentic brand customers are as follows: No.1 Certina DS-3, No.2 Certina DS-1 Big Date Powermatic 80, No.3 Certina DS PH200M. Check the ranking of the most beautiful Certina based on brand customer reviews.
For 11 authentic Certina owners who shared their reviews, the top 3 Certina models are: No.1 Certina DS-3 with an average rating of 5.0/5, No.2 Certina DS-1 Big Date Powermatic 80 with an average rating of 4.6/5, No.3 Certina DS PH200M with an average rating of 4.6/5. As other models are also appreciated by owners, check the ranking of the best Certina to know the complete list of the best models of the brand.
Design, comfort, precision, or robustness... many criteria come into play before buying a Certina. If precision is your number one criterion, the Certina DS-1 Big Date Powermatic 80 is the first choice of the brand's owners. If it's design, the Certina DS PH200M may be more suitable for you. In any case, check the reviews of authentic Certina owners to help you make your choice.
Certina, offering watches for more than 136 years, provides numerous opportunities to explore vintage models. The main ways to buy a Vintage Certina are as follows: specialized online selling sites such as Chrono24 or Watchfinder; stores specializing in Vintage watches, Certina and/or other brands; and finally, auctions. In any case, pay attention to the reputation of the seller and/or intermediary. If possible, examine the Certina in person or request the most detailed photos possible. You can also prefer a Certina with a certificate of authenticity issued by Watchcertificate, for example.

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