The first mechanical watch I bought was a early DS automatic from the 60’s. So it’s not a secret that I’m a Certina fan. Certinas have many nice in-house movements and are in my opinion under-appreciated, often in the shadow of more expensive brands like Omega.
This watch has a nice original dial, but is in need of some TLC.
The movement looks good, but the rotor axel has broken off and the rotor came with the watch in a bag.The watch is barely running.I start by dismantling the date mechanism.The date construction is very nicely executed and is fairly advanced for its time.Winding mechanism.I remove the auto winder assemblyIt is a simple but well made wigwag construction.There is plenty of dirt in this movement Gear-train and balance removed.I am unable to source another mainspring so the old one will go back after cleaning.Almost ready for the cleaning machine. Base movement back together looking great.Fully wound the watch is preforming excellent.The auto winder assembly is back togetherThe movement goes back in the case and with a new rotor axel the movement is reunited with its rotor.I have polished and applied new luminous compound on the hands. This watch looks great
After reading all the reviews and comments from satisfied customers how can I do other than ask you to service and repair my early 1970s Certina DS2 automatic/Date time piece.Although it has never been serviced in the 44 years I have had it, it still seems to keep quite good time, gaining circa 17 secs a day, however although the watch has never been dropped/abused, the date change mechanism no longer functions – so can you give e a worst case cost for a service, repairing date change mechanism, cleaning of the watch face, re-application of luminisant paint etc.Would a straight forward service be as shown on your price list ie. £130.
Regards Alan Hiley.
Yes, a service will probably all that is required. Please check our booking and FAQ page on how to proceed.
lovely watch…
Great looking piece! Certina is definitely underrated as a brand. Very good and clever constructions in high quality packing.
As a collector I would ideally had the relume of the hands done in a color closer to the lume on the dial, but that is a matter of personal opinion. The devil is in the details…..
I was trying to match the color of the dial, but when the luminous compound is wet it can be hard to tell.. If you where to be interested in the watch I would of course have another go at it;)
Fantastic job!