One of the earliest Certina DS models ever made, still with the Gay Frères bracelet. Model reference 5601.012
HOW DO WE DATE THIS WATCH?
DS models do not have serial numbers, but the range was launched in 1959 and the technology patented in late 1958. This early watch still has SWISS PATENT PENDING inside the case back, and in 1960 the movement calibre used had changed. These early watches never had the turtle embossed caseback either.
CONDITION
The DS is one of the currently few overlooked classic watches. Look at the ingredients and you will see why it is deserved of more love. The case is made by Huguenin Frères, and they patented the double shock (hence DS) system for this watch. They also made some of the best cases for different manufacturers, such as the Omega Speedmaster 321 ‘Moonwatch’, and you will notice this Certina has similar turned in lugs. The long bracelet, with the original clasp, is made by Gay Frères. Now they were the premium bracelet makers – Patek Philippe, Rolex, Zenith, Heuer and others all used their bracelets – even Audemars Piguet turned to them to make the original Royal Oak models. The bracelet has been cleaned in our ultrasonic bath. The cream dial is all original, as are the dauphine hands, and the in house 25-41 automatic movement is working well. Quite why this steel 36mm sportswatch is not twice the price or more when contemporary watches like the Eterna Kontiki or Universal Geneve Polerouter would cost double is a mystery.
This watch will be supplied with our branded presentation box and our Certificate of Authenticity.
Please see the HD video for more detail. All photos and videos are part of the description and are of the actual watch unless mentioned. We do not photoshop any pictures, and the images are copyright of birthyearwatches.com and should not be used without permission.
SIZE
Width with crown 38.3 mm
Width without crown 36.0 mm
Between lugs 18 mm
Lug to lug length 45.1 mm
Case Thickness 13.2 mm
Bracelet will fit a maximum wrist size of 208 mm. The bracelet can be sized for you if you give us your wrist size when placing the order.
All sizes are approximate.
Included with this watch is a 3 month guarantee and free delivery to UK addresses. If you live outside the UK we can still deliver to most countries. Please see our Worldwide Shipping information, or Contact Us. Payment can be made by most credit or debit cards, bank transfer or PayPal.
From 1st September 2021 we will be planting a tree for every watch we sell, working with the International Tree Foundation (Est 1922) to make this business positive on carbon. By buying anything pre owned you are effectively reusing what already exists, but this takes it further and makes us feel good.
