Certina
Grenchen, Switzerland · Est. 1888
Founded by Adolf Kurth, Alfred Kurth
Certina was founded in Grenchen, Switzerland in 1888 and has been part of the Swatch Group since 1983. The brand focuses on robust, reliable sport watches at mid-range price points, most notably its DS (Double Security) line, and maintains a strong presence in cycling and motorsport partnerships.
- Founded
- 1888
- Headquarters
- Grenchen, Switzerland
- Group
- Swatch Group
- Price Segment
- Mid
- Status
- Active
Key Collections
- DS Action — Sporty collection with diver and GMT variants, featuring Certina's signature Double Security (DS) concept for water and shock resistance.
- DS Podium — Motorsport-inspired chronographs reflecting Certina's long association with racing and the WRC.
- DS-1 — Classic dress watch line offering refined design with the DS system, representing excellent value in the Swatch Group mid-range.
Timeline
- 1888 — Brothers Adolf and Alfred Kurth found Kurth Frères in Grenchen, Switzerland.
- 1906 — The company adopts the name Certina and registers the brand with its distinctive turtle logo.
- 1959 — Certina introduces the DS (Double Security) concept, a gasket and case-back system providing superior water and shock resistance.
- 1970 — The DS-2 sets a world record, surviving a fall from a plane at 60m altitude and continuing to run.
- 1983 — Certina becomes part of the Swatch Group (then SMH), securing its future during the quartz crisis.
- 2020 — Certina adopts Powermatic 80 movements across its automatic range, offering 80-hour power reserves at accessible prices.
- 2025 — Launched DS-X quartz GMT sports watch. Updated DS Action Diver 38mm Powermatic 80 in five references. Revived DS Cascadeur for 30th anniversary.
Frequently Asked Questions about Certina
- What does DS stand for in Certina watches?
- DS stands for 'Double Security,' Certina's patented system combining a reinforced case-back with special gaskets for enhanced water and shock resistance.
- Is Certina part of the Swatch Group?
- Yes. Certina sits in the Swatch Group's mid-range segment alongside brands like Hamilton and Mido, using ETA and Powermatic movements.
- What is Certina's heritage in sport and diving?
- Certina has a long association with sport and diving, particularly through its DS (Double Security) concept introduced in 1959. The brand has been a partner of various motorsport events and diving expeditions, and its DS Action Diver line continues this heritage with robust, ISO 6425-certified dive watches within Swatch Group's mid-range positioning.