5801.302 Certina DS2 Super PH1000M

Despite being in the throes of February, there may be no better watch to remind one of summer waves than this lemon-drop Certina. Attention for Certina has been growing steadily the last few years. More pieces are starting to surface in the market as increased demand attracts a higher valuations. Recently, there was this more subtle PH200M, and before that a lovely 5601 DS. The Super PH1000M is to those Certinas what the Sea-Dweller is to the Submariner: everything you love with a little extra insanity.

DS referred to double security. The movement was to be secured against water and shock resistance through both a rubber insulating cushion and the behemouth 44mm case you see here. The PH1000M (PH standing for Pression Hydrostatique, or depth to us Neanderthals) was released after the PH200M and PH500M. Those two watches, though mainly the 500M, were used in the Tektite I experiments where four aquanauts spent 60 days underwater. Largely forgotten, the sciencific endeavour was news-worthy at the time. I digress.

This PH1000M was used in the Tektite II continuation experiment and performed admirably. I highly recommend reading further here, as the modules, living conditions, experiments, and outcomes are all fascinating. For what its worth, it cemented the reputation and street cred of one otherwise gorgeous lemon-yellow diver. It is also worth noting here that Certina was not running Valjoux or ETA, even in 1970 they were vertically integrated using a 25-651 calibre of their own manufacture. Build construction and ambition of the nascent manufacture seemingly knew no bounds back then.

This example is in strong condition overall. The case is relatively strong, with most of the brushed surfacing still displaying its depth. The metal shows surface wear throughout, consistent with age. Its dial is clear and still very visibly yellow, with tritium that has begun to degrade slightly. The handset on the other hand is remarkable well aged. There is a small spot between 8 and 9 on the dial with light damage. It comes from a small well-regarded seller.

Find this DS2 Super PH1000M here from Watch Garage for 2400 EUR.