Key Features
This remarkable Certina DS Turtleback 346.825 is a true legend in Swiss diving watch development. This rare and collectible timepiece is an early example of the renowned ‘DS’ model by Certina, featuring a super water-protected technical design that’s ready to accompany you on any adventure.
Behind its captivating exterior lies a fascinating story of engineering brilliance. In the mid-fifties, engineer Philipp Kurth and his team embarked on a mission to create an exceptionally durable wristwatch. Countless experiments led to the ingenious concept behind the DS models, representing “Double Safety.”
The Certina DS Turtleback 346.825 proudly embodies the DS philosophy with its innovative design. The entire movement is mounted “floating” within the case, thanks to a yellow elastic shock absorber ring and trusted Incabloc shock protection. This extraordinary construction ensures maximum protection against shocks and vibrations.
What sets this timepiece apart is the intentional air gap between the dial and the case, allowing unrestricted movement in all directions. Extra gaskets, robust Plexiglas, and a reinforced case back further enhance its resilience and reliability, making it an ideal companion for everyday use.
The caseback signature ‘Swiss Patent 346825’ is a testament to Certina’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. It refers to the elastic shock suspension of the movement, a groundbreaking feature introduced by Certina in 1958. Additionally, the ‘HF’ hallmark represents Huguenin Freres, a renowned case makers company known for their exceptional craftsmanship.
About Certina
Certina began as small watchmakers in 1888 by brothers Adolf and Alfred Kurth, in Grenchen, Switzerland. Having weathered the Great Depression, in the 1930’s the manufacturer adopted the brand name Certina, based on the Latin ‘certus’, meaning ‘sure’. The brand’s symbol is a turtle, symbolising robustness and longevity, and can be seen on the casebacks of most Certina watches.
Among some of the brand’s achievements are the development of the 1969 DS Concept, an early success in designing a shock resistant waterproof automatic movement, the 1970 Certina Biostar which claimed to pick up on one’s ‘biorhythms’ and could read your emotional state and vital signs, among other things, and in more recent years the company have developed sustainably produced watch straps made from recycled plastic from the ocean.
Servicing and Guarantee
This timepiece has been serviced with full disassembly. Make sure to follow the usage and care guidelines. 12 month warranty included.
Overview
Case and Strap
- Stainless steel case.
- Turtle engraved case back
- Original signed crown
- Original extra thick acrylic crystal
- Splashproof/weatherproof.
- New 20mm tan leather strap.
Dimensions:
- Width w/ crown: 38mm
- Width w/o crown: 36mm
- Height: 45.5mm
- Thickness: 12.8mm
- Strap: 18mm
Dial and Hands
- Grey sunburst dial in great vintage condition
- Applied silver indices
- White, stick style lumed hands
- Date window with applied silver frame.
Movement
- Swiss made movement
- Certina 25-651 calibre
- Automatic
- 27 jewels
- 44hr power reserve
- Shockproof.
Testing results:
- Testing duration: 1 week cyclic test
- Average timekeeping range: 10-30 sec/day
Servicing and Guarantee
- Fully serviced.
- Mechanics in full working order.
- Care and usage guidelines.
