The Certina DS Action Diver is a compelling choice for anyone seeking a rugged, reliable, and affordable dive watch. Although not traditionally known as a luxury watch, this newly updated model is ISO 6425:2018 certified. It meets all the professional standards expected of serious underwater timepieces. It boasts an impressive 300-metre water resistance. Additionally, it also incorporates Certina’s next-generation DS (Double Security) system, delivering durability and precision. This is achieved at a fraction of the price of comparable luxury dive watches.
Detail of the new Certina DS Action Diver, arguably the best dive watch in the market under £1,000.
A Legacy Built Beneath the Surface
Certina’s history with the sea runs deep. Founded in Grenchen, Switzerland, in 1888 by brothers Adolf and Alfred Kurth, the brand originally operated under the name “Grana”– a name that would go on to be associated with one of the rare “Dirty Dozen” watches issued to the British military during World War II. These vintage timepieces are now highly sought-after by collectors due to their rarity and military heritage.
The name “Certina” was officially adopted in 1938, derived from the Latin word certus, meaning “assured” or “certain”. This ethos of reliability became the foundation for the DS line, launched in 1959. The DS concept revolutionised watchmaking by suspending the movement inside a reinforced case. This system dramatically improved shock resistance and water protection, making it akin to a luxury watch in terms of security and durability.
A Grana WWII “Dirty Dozen” watch supplied to the British military with accompanying paperwork. © finesthour.co.uk
Underwater Provenance: Tektite and Sealab Missions
Certina’s expertise in professional dive watches was solidified during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Its watches were used in the Tektite Project, a pioneering series of underwater habitation experiments. These involved scientists living and working in submerged laboratories to explore marine ecosystems. They also tested the viability of long-duration underwater missions. The success of Tektite led to the even more ambitious Sealab project.
Helping to launch the new DS Action Diver in London was Roger Michel Jr, Fellow of Trinity College and marine archaeologist. He is a member of the original Tektite expedition and leader of the search for the legendary 12th-century “White Ship” wreck. Michel highlighted the essential role of dependable timekeeping during underwater exploration. He underscored the enduring reliability of Certina dive watches that rival luxury watches.
Roger Michel Jr., University of Oxford, gives a speech about the Tektite expedition and the Certina DS-2 that accompanied it.
Advanced DS Technology and Robust Build
The latest evolution of the DS system is at the heart of the new DS Action Diver. It features a wafer-thin metal plate placed between the dial and movement, connected to a ring-shaped internal buffer. This design significantly enhances shock resistance, far exceeding ISO professional standards in independent tests.
Housed in a versatile 40.5mm case, the DS Action Diver is available in four distinct versions. These include stainless steel with ceramic bezel and white or black dial; steel case with NATO strap; and titanium case with blue dial and bezel. These features embody some aspects of luxury watch craftsmanship.
All models are powered by a robust ETA automatic movement featuring a Nivachron™ balance spring. This offers superior magnetic resistance and timekeeping precision. These are truly essential elements found in luxury watches. The hands and markers are treated with Super-LumiNova®, ensuring excellent visibility even in deep, murky waters.
From left to right: steel case, black dial, NATO strap (£765); steel case and bracelet, white dial (£805); steel case and bracelet, black dial (£805); titanium case and bracelet, blue dial (£880).
Best Value Dive Watch in Its Class?
The Certina DS Action Diver stands as a prime example of Swiss watchmaking ingenuity. It combines historical credibility, advanced engineering, and modern design in one highly capable package. Whether you’re a professional diver, an adventurous spirit, or a watch enthusiast seeking quality without compromise, this timepiece delivers exceptional value, much like a luxury watch.
Author: Andrew Hildreth
If you like sports watches, you may like the Micromilspec x Black Badger Milgraph Sabotage, the Alpiner Extreme Automatic Titanium, the Tudor Black Bay Chrono “Carbon 25”, or the IWC Big Pilot Shock Absorber Tourbillon Skeleton XPL, which are above the typical standard found in luxury watches.
If you like sport watches, you may like the Micromilspec x Black Badger Milgraph Sabotage, the Alpiner Extreme Automatic Titanium, the Tudor Black Bay Chrono “Carbon 25”, or the IWC Big Pilot Shock Absorber Tourbillon Skeleton XPL.
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