1959 CERTINA DS first generation vintage automatic watch, working and serviced

Why I picked this watch: I selected this 1959 Certina because it is a true ‘First Generation’ survivor of the legendary DS (Double Security) line. This was the watch that proved a dress piece could be as rugged as a tool watch, featuring a revolutionary shock-mounting system that suspended the entire movement. I was particularly drawn to this early example because it features the clean, ‘pre-turtle’ case back and the iconic Calibre 25-45, Certina’s first in-house automatic movement. I chose this piece for the collector who appreciates over-engineered history; its combination of a robust steel case and a beautifully aged dial represents the peak of 1950s functional design. It’s a rare opportunity to own the ‘Patient Zero’ of one of the most durable watch lineages in horology.

CERTINA DS vintage automatic watch, with in-house 25-45 movement, Swiss made in 1959, case of 36 mm excluding the crown, automatic (self-winding with the user’s movements) and hand-wound (mechanical, no battery!), working fine and serviced. Ref. 5601 012.

Certina, the legendary Swiss watch brand, was founded in 1888 in Grenchen by Adolf and Alfred Kurth. The brand officially adopted “Certina” (from the Latin “certus,” meaning “certain”) in 1938.
Certina is most renowned for its groundbreaking “DS” (Double Security) concept, which was first introduced in 1959. The original Certina DS was a revolutionary automatic watch designed to be exceptionally resistant to shocks, water, and pressure. Its innovative construction included a robust case, a free-floating movement within a flexible ring, a reinforced case back, and special gaskets for the crown and stem.
The very first units (as this piece) had dauphine hands and a flat case back without the turtle logo, and the patent application instead of the patent number engraved on the inside of the case back. Until May 1960 when the patent was granted, ‘Patent Pending’ was marked inside the caseback.
Vintage first-generation Certina DS watches are highly valued by collectors for their historical significance, sturdy construction, and their classic yet durable design.

This piece has a steel case with some wear and scratches, and the dial has a uniform patina – please check the pictures. The watch also features a new brown leather strap. It will fit wrists of up to 21 cm. The glass is original (polished) and the crown may be a later replacement.
Water resistance has not been tested, therefore it must be treated as NON-waterproof.
The watch will be delivered in a new padded box as seen in the photos, for a better protection during transportation and for a smart and safe storing once you receive it.

As with any other vintage mechanical watch, exact accuracy cannot be guaranteed, as it depends on many factors, including your kind of use. It has been regulated in different positions to minimize the average time gain/loss. The watch has been recently serviced.

FREE registered (tracked) shipment worldwide. VAT is included in the price (European Union). USA buyers: the price includes shipping, tariffs and custom duties.

The uploaded pictures have maximum resolution and detail. Please study them carefully using a device with a large screen such as a computer or a tablet -cell phone screens may be too small to appreciate all details-, you can also use the zoom option, and do not hesitate to ask should you have questions. Upon receipt, if there’s any issue with the watch please let me know asap so that we find a solution. Buyers outside the European Union: please check your country’s customs policy, as the item might be subject to taxes and other fees which I cannot know and will not assume.