Certina Watch Co.: Swiss Precision, Innovation, and Endurance Since 1888
Certina Watch Company is a respected Swiss brand distinguished by its robust sports watches, enduring reliability, and a legacy of technical innovation stretching over 130 years.
Key Highlights
Founded: 1888 by brothers Adolf and Alfred Kurth in Grenchen, Switzerland
Early Years: Began as a movement and supplies factory; produced its first watches under the name “Grana” before adopting “Certina” in the 1930s, derived from the Latin for “assured”
Growth: Rapid expansion by the mid-20th century, producing hundreds of thousands of watches annually across a global market
Technical Innovation and Milestones
DS (Double Security) Concept (1959): Revolutionized watch durability with a pioneering system of robust shock and water resistance, making Certina timepieces popular among adventurers, divers, and explorers. The DS Concept remains a hallmark of Certina to this day, ensuring every modern watch features exceptional protection against shocks and water
Expeditions and Endurance: Certina DS watches accompanied mountaineers on Himalayan expeditions and scientists in underwater experiments (Sealab II, Tektite), consistently proving their resilience under extreme conditions
Biorhythm Biostar (1971): Pioneered the world’s first watch capable of displaying biorhythms, showing Certina’s flair for innovation
Turtle Logo: Introduced in the 1960s, the turtle has become a symbol of robustness and longevity, reflecting Certina’s commitment to quality
Materials: Early adoption of scratchproof cases with tungsten carbide (DS DiaMaster, 1976), anti-magnetic Nivachron hairsprings, and ongoing use of reinforced sapphire crystal
Modern Era & Collector Appeal
Swatch Group Member: Joined the Swatch Group in 1983, cementing its place alongside prestigious Swiss brands and ensuring access to the latest horological technology
Innovative Movements: Notably features the Powermatic 80 automatic calibre with an 80-hour power reserve and Precidrive™ quartz technology for extraordinary accuracy