Why This Watch Matters Just take a look at that beautiful tropical dial! The Full Story Certina was originally founded by the Kurth brothers in 1888, and the manufacturer first produced movements, and later watches, under the name Grana. The name was changed to Certina in 1939, and they quickly started producing automatic watches in the 1940s, eventually introducing the DS series in 1959. DS stands for "double security," which is a reference to the watch having both substantial shock and water resistance. Certina clearly took pride in testing the DS series for enhanced resistance to the elements. The brand would ultimately come out with different DS models over the years.The DS reference we have here today debuted in the early 1960s and has some great characteristics giving it a style of its own. This example features "nib" style hour markers at 3-6-9-12, which are reminiscent of a fountain pen nib, hence the name. In addition to these uniquely styled hour markers, the other hour markers are also an interesting almost thin diamond-looking shape with facets, adding some dimension to the dial. The part that's most noticeable on the watch is the beautifully aged brown dial. This watch was originally born with a black dial, and it's transformed over the years to a lovely brown color throughout. The watch also comes on its original signed stainless steel bracelet made by Gay Frères, and it has the original owner's initials engraved on the clasp as well as "DS," referring to the model. The caseback on this watch is also worth mentioning, as there is the "Certina DS" branding in the center with a turtle. In addition, the whole caseback has an almost scalloped texture, similar to that of a turtle shell.It's always nice when the patina and wear on a watch is cohesive throughout. The example we have here today has an incredible tropical dial that has developed patina throughout, and this patina and wear extends to the nicely worn bezel and from there to the case and bracelet. It's clear that this watch was worn and most likely lived an eventful life above and below the water. These early DS divers are not very common in the marketplace, especially one with a color change dial. The combination of the tropical dial paired with the cool nib-shaped markers and neat little details of this diver makes it perfect for someone looking for a vintage tool watch with character. You will most likely not run into someone else with one quite like this. The Fine Print Maker: Certina Model: DS Reference: 5601-113Year: Circa 1965 Material: Stainless steel Dimensions: 38.5mm diameter; 11mm thickness Crystal: Plexiglass Lume: Yes, tritium Caliber: Certina, self-winding, caliber 25-65Bracelet/Strap: Certina stainless steel bracelet made by Gay Frères with 'DS' end links Lug Width: 19mm Box/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know This DS is in overall honest, original, and attractive condition. The case is strong with scratches throughout. The bevels on the lugs are still present. The caseback turtle motif and writing are in good condition and clearly visible. The backs of the lugs have scratches, and the back of the one o'clock lug has what appears to be a watchmakers mark engraved. The originally black dial has turned to a consistent brown color throughout. The dial has some signs of wear around the edges from three o'clock and from four to nine o'clock as well as around the hour markers. The areas around the hour markers are slightly darker brown. The lume on the dial and on the hands have developed patina aged to the same yellowish color, and the hour hand is slightly darker than the minute hand. The borders of the hour markers and hands have developed patina. The bezel is in good condition with scratches and wear; the luminous triangle at 12 has darkened. The original Certina signed bracelet is in overall good condition with some signs of wear and scratches. The clasp is signed by Gay Frères and dated '3 65,' indicating it was made in March of 1965. The clasp has an engraving on the outside that reads 'T S,' and the middle letter was worn off after all these years. The dial, movement, crown, and bracelet are all signed by the maker. This watch was photographed on a 175mm/6.9inch wrist.
Related
Related
Related
Related