CERTINA BLUE RIBBON AUTOMATIC, VINTAGE 1970s

The story of Certina began in 1888 in Grenchen, Switzerland, when brothers Adolf and Alfred Kurth founded their own watch factory in the annex of their house. The company, initially called Kurth Frères, started by producing watch components, and gradually began making their own complete watches. The quality and precision of their watches helped them make a name for themselves in the Swiss market.

Name Change and Focus on Durability

In 1939, the company officially adopted the name Certina, derived from the Latin word “certus,” which means “secure” or “reliable.” This name reflected their commitment to the reliability and precision of their watches. In the 1950s, Certina began to stand out in the industry for its focus on durability and robustness of its products. In 1959, the brand introduced its DS (Double Security) system, significantly improving shock and water resistance, making Certina a favorite among adventurers and athletes.

Watchmaking Achievements and Explorations

Thanks to its DS system, Certina watches were used in various expeditions and extreme events:

• In 1960, a Certina DS watch accompanied a Swiss expedition to the Himalayas, functioning flawlessly in extreme cold and altitude conditions.
• In 1969, another Certina model was part of the Tektite I expedition in the Caribbean Sea, where scientists lived underwater for several months, demonstrating great resistance to the marine environment.

Innovation and Reliability

Certina has continued to innovate and maintain its focus on resistance and precision. It is currently part of the Swatch Group and continues to produce sporty and elegant watches with features that emphasize durability and advanced technology.

Today, Certina is known in the watchmaking world for its reliable and sturdy sports watches, staying true to its motto of robustness and safety for over a century.

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