BASELNEWS: Certina adds to a legend with the new DS 1 automatic chrono edition
Since 1959, a characteristic acronym has graced Certina timepieces: DS – hallmark letters symbolic of Certina's now famous Double Security system. Launched in 1960, the first DS 1 met with enormous success, as did a revisited edition brought forth in 2007. Today, the Swiss brand extends its legendary product line, with the introduction of a chronograph version of the DS 1. Sport-classic design, generous proportions, high elegance and a cutting-edge automatic Valjoux movement give the new DS 1 a bold sense of expression and an exclusive personality. It is intended for the wrist of the uncompromising timepiece lover with an active lifestyle and a finer sense for beautiful things.
Certina has chosen to draw artfully selected inspiration from the past to set forth an innovative, modern interpretation of its illustrious DS 1 model. The new model garners the essential traits of sobriety and a sports-oriented nature from the original line, and casts new boldness and a unique personality into the new chronograph design. The oversized satin-finish watchcase features contrasting brightly polished horns and a broad silver-colour dial whose geometry strikes instant appeal to the discerning eye. Snailed chrono counter displays bring stunning contrast to a charcoal gray rim which echoes the same colour on the raised rim of the tachymeter scale surrounding the design. The 12-hour and 30-min. hands of the chrono counters as well as the small-second indicator and indexes bring further complementary tones in black nickel finish. The large HM hands and indexes are facetted for an added sculptural note to delight the eye, and complement the highly precise scale used to mark seconds. The date and day window is conveniently placed at the three o'clock position and the dial is guarded by a non-reflecting sapphire crystal which is very tastefully rounded. A large and assertive crown wears the early, traditional Certina logo. Chronograph functions are set through two asymmetrical and original pushbuttons which reinforce even further the unique character of the watch. A state-of-the-art ETA 7750 Valjoux automatic chronograph movement ticks at the heart of the new DS1, and proudly displays both its workings and self-winding mass through a broad transparent case back. This exquisite timepiece is fitted with a brown leather watch strap.
The DS 1 Automatic Chrono is also available in three other variants, with a black dial and light satin nickel finish counter contours, or in full black dress. Those models are available with steel or leather watchbands.