Practice the new Certina DS Action Diver 40.5

Today we are practicing new certificates. The DS Action Diver 40.5 is an important release for the brand as it offers new case sizes. In fact, most people would argue that it will be the most successful model in the collection. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of this valuable diver, mentioning some of our remaining wishes.

Before moving to London, I visited Swatch Group Germany’s headquarters in Eschborn with Balaz. During the meeting, we saw several new Certina DS Action Diver variations. The tim-only pieces came in sizes of 38mm and 43mm. For watches with such traditional looks, I was surprised that the mid-range 40mm version was not part of the plan. Certainly, the 38mm version fits me perfectly, but the 43mm reference was large on everything except the biggest wrist. A lovely intermediate case size would have been perfect. Well, after a few years of waiting, the DS Action Diver 40.5 is finally here.

Certina DS Action Diver 40.5

For our practice, Certina sent us a single example of the new DS Action Diver 40.5. The model I received has a black dial and a striped nylon strap. Three other variations are available, including the same black dial paired with an oyster-like bracelet. White dial models are available for similar bracelets. Finally, the titanium version has a dark blue dial and a matching titanium bracelet.

As the name suggests, the watch has a 40.5mm case and a suitable 48mm lug-to-lug. For comparison, the gold standard Rolex Submariner has the same footprint, but the Rolex rounding suggests an extra 0.5mm diameter. The top-level specifications counted are also competitive. A 300m depth rating, dome-shaped sapphire crystal with anti-reflection treatment, and an under-screw crown ticks the box for a basic diving watch.

Beautiful and easy to read dial

Like all certificate models in the collection, the latest DS Action Divers have a clean dial and a pleasant design. Our lender had a shiny black dial with white and gold details. From the beginning, this may sound like the Tudor Black Bay 58, but it’s different and dares to look even more expensive. The bright white Super Luminova contributes to this observation as this is not a retro release. Key Takeout is an applied index with gold tone surround and matching handsets. A steep angled rehout with a minute track is barely detectable at certain angles and helps maintain an unorganized look.

The black-on-white date indicator is small and relatively inconspicuous. It is also a consistent feature of all DS Action Diver models. The one-way 120-click dive bezel includes a shiny black ceramic insert with gold engraved numbers. There is also a bright PIP that helps you measure time in the dark. Speaking of luminescence, the white Super Luminova emits a blue glow. In general, we were impressed by the brightness and thickness of the material.

It’s a bit thick, but it’s not an escape

One area you want to see some improvements is thickness. The DS Action Diver 40.5 has a 14.1mm profile, making it more chanchy than competitive references from stubborns like Seiko and relative newcomers like Serica and Baltic. The numbers are not showstoppers, but are exacerbated by the nylon straps running under the case. Still, we know we want a meaty, solid diver with more weight. This certina might be the answer!

No surprise, the PowerMatic 80 is inside

One of my favorite details about the DS Action Diver 40.5 is the steel screw-in case. The Turtle is one of my favorite watch logos, but that’s not the main reason. The fact that the brand has shown off a rather artisanal caliber and avoided the temptation to choose to stick to the utility is a good indication. Inside, the watch is powered by the popular PowerMatic 80. As usual, it has an 80-hour power reserve and a frequency of 21,600VPH. Nivachron hair springs are useful for their coronavirus properties. However, the news is the use of Certina’s new DS concept extreme impact resistance method. Apparently, the PowerMatic 80 is secured in a different way within the case, increasing the impact resistance and stability of the dial and crystal. Frankly, please see more details on this, including interior photos and illustrations.

DS Action Diver 40.5 is easy to wear on the wrist

Despite his slightly thicker height, there is no denying that the DS Action Diver 40.5 works well on the wrist. It’s a typical size for a diving watch, so I’m wearing it smoothly. Plus, the colour combo is elegant and modern, not too flashy. I wasn’t a huge supporter of fake guilt details, but the details of this watch are gold and subtle. But what I like is a bracelet or a high quality elastic strap. In my view, nylon straps should be offered as accessories rather than as standalone model options. Thankfully, the additional cost of the bracelet is minimal.

Pricing and availability

The new DS Action Diver 40.5 on nylon straps is priced at CHF 785. The same dial or white one on the stainless steel bracelet is the CHF 835. The titanium bracelet model is the CHF 895. Universally popular sizes, ceramic bezels and substantial water resistance ratings make this collection a top seller of certificates. Best of all, the models are available online now and at certified dealers.

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