ertina’s latest chronograph, the DS Chronograph Automatic 1968, is inspired by a model from the 1960s, but its heart beats to the rhythm of a state-of-the-art automatic movement with a silicon balance spring. The cushion-shaped case makes it a stylish accessory, while its chronograph functionality, water resistance up to 20 bar and the unidirectional rotating bezel testify to genuine sportiness.

This timepiece, which goes back to the DS Chronograph Automatic 1968, carries a legendary name: at the end of the 1960s the DS Argonaut caused a sensation with its striking case and robust workmanship. Inspired by this model, the Swiss watchmaker has developed a worthy successor that would cut a fine figure in any tale of mythical heroes.

The DS Chronograph Automatic 1968 is presented in a cushion-shaped stainless steel case (43.5 mm x 43.5 mm) with a black PVD surface. Sapphire crystal on the front and back of the watch provide optimal clarity and legibility. A round sapphire ring, fitted with a black/white scale printed from beneath, lends visual depth to the unidirectional rotating bezel. And thanks to their Super-LumiNova^® coating, the sharply angled hands and indexes stand out clearly against the black dial even in the dark.

An elegant vintage style is only one of the many facets of the new DS Chronograph Automatic 1968. Another is its sporty character, underscored, for example, by the 30-minute counter at 3 o’clock and complemented by the central stop seconds and a small seconds at 9 o’clock. The striking screw-down crown and water resistance up to 20 bar (200 m) contribute to enhanced robustness.

The matt black leather strap with white decorative stitching – easily exchanged thanks to the Certina quick-change system – offers additional safety and comfort. Along with the black version, a stainless steel edition with orange accents on the dial and a black and white striped NATO strap made from recycled #tide ocean material^® is also available.

Ticking inside the watch is the A05.H31 automatic (self-winding) movement with a 60-hour power reserve. It is equipped with a silicon balance spring whose innovative material protects it against the everyday enemies of mechanical rate precision: magnetic fields, changes in temperature and shocks have no effect on its steady reliability.

The new DS Chronograph Automatic is available from July 2022 from authorised Certina dealers worldwide.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Movement: ETA A05.H31 automatic, Swiss Made, silicon balance spring hours, minutes, small seconds; chronograph: stop seconds, 30-minute counter; 60-hour power reserve

Case: Stainless steel 316L with black PVD coating, 43.5 mm x 43.5 mm, cushion-shaped, round unidirectional rotating bezel with sapphire crystal ring, case back in sapphire crystal

Dial: Black dial; indexes, hour and minute hands with Super-LumiNova^® coating

Water resistance: Up to a pressure of 20 bar (200 m)

Glass: Anti-reflective sapphire crystal

Strap: Matt black leather strap with white decorative stitching, butterfly clasp with two pushers

Special features: DS (Double Security), silicon balance spring, based on historical predecessor

Recommended retail price: Stainless steel case with black PVD coating, black dial, leather strap: CHF 1,970; Stainless steel case, black dial with orange elements, striped NATO strap: CHF 1,930*