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Until now, the chronograph version of the Certina DS-7 has been very easy to use thanks to its quartz movement and intuitive dial layout. With the release of the DS-7 Chrono Auto, it has become even more available and boasts a more unique look. It’s also a celebration of the rapidly growing sport of padel, which is making headlines around the world. Can you imagine a doubles tennis match inside a cage? Players hit the ball against the wall, and sometimes run outside the wall to hit the ball back. It’s crazy, it’s padel. Chronographs and sports go hand in hand, and it’s very exciting to see watchmakers supporting emerging sports Alongside the heritage.
dial
To be clear, we don’t have much information about the Certina DS-7 Chrono Auto, which is actually based on the Padel. You don’t have to be a panel fanatic to enjoy this watch. It uses a standard tachymeter bezel like almost all other chronographs, and its two subdials include a 30-minute counter and a seconds hand. The only explicit reference to padel is the grid on the dial, which evokes a net and rebound wall. That said, it looks just as retro and fun as any other deep blue waffle-style dial.
The elements that really give this watch character are the pure white raised subdial ring that emphasizes the depth of the different layers of the dial, and the bright red chronograph seconds hand that contrasts strongly with the blue. Batons applied as hour markers keep the dial from being too busy, and the date window at 6 o’clock keeps everything smart and symmetrical. We’re getting the blue model here, but green and black references are also available.
case
The popularity of 1970s style shows no signs of slowing down.This may have something to do with the fact that modern watches of this style are made to much higher standards than they were back then. The block-shaped case is brushed with rough facets, accentuated by thin polished chamfers. The slender steel bezel has a radial brushed finish that adds to the overall sophistication, while the sturdy pushers and crown guards add to the watch’s sturdiness.
Speaking of sturdiness, Water resistant to 100m so you can swim On the DS-7 Chrono Auto, be careful not to press the pusher underwater. Similarly, the use of sapphire crystal helps prevent scratch build-up. 42mm is still a great size for a sporty chronograph, as it’s easy to read from a distance, but it won’t feel cramped on most wrists.
movement
ETA A05.231 is one of the more recent developments, even though it doesn’t have an appealing name. Classic Valjoux 7753 movement It has been widely used from the 1970s to the present. Its specs now include a large power reserve of 68 hours, perfect for letting the chronograph soak up extra power, and a smooth beat rate of 28,800 vibrations per hour. The movement is visible through the sapphire caseback, and the automatic rotor is printed with the Certina logo.
bracelet
One-piece bracelets have rabid fans and harsh hatersHowever, Certina DS-7 Chrono Auto uses something that eliminates many concerns. First, the links are very short and flexible, so they fit snugly on your wrist and don’t add too much distance between the lugs on your watch. Second, it actually has a quick change system and may be compatible with other Certina straps in the future. The polished center links complement the watch’s few polished areas and add to its versatility in smart casual situations.
judgment
If Certina’s only goal with the DS-7 Chrono Auto was to celebrate the sport of padel, it might not have succeeded. But the partnership with padel only shows that Certina is a long-time sponsor of the sport. As a watch in its own right, the DS-7 Chrono Auto is a great choice for an affordable automatic swimming chronograph thanks to its association with the Swatch Group.
Certina DS-7 Chrono Auto price and availability
The Certina DS-7 Chrono Auto is available now. Price: 1,685 Swiss Francs (~1,980 USD)
Brand Certina Model DS-7 Chrono Auto Case dimensions 42mm (D) Case material Stainless steel Water resistant 100m Crystal Sapphire crystal on front and back Dial Padel-inspired grid in blue, black or green Strap Quick release movement ETA Integrated steel bracelet A05.231 with automatic power reserve 68 hours Functions Hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph with 30 minute counter, date Availability On sale now Price CHF 1,685 (~US$1,980)
