Is your DS Action
the real deal?
The Certina DS Action is a capable sport watch known for its robust DS (Double Security) concept and excellent value. As Certina gains recognition among watch enthusiasts, counterfeits of popular models like the DS Action Diver have appeared on the market. Here's how to verify authenticity.
How to authenticate a DS Action
DS Concept Gasket System
Certina's DS (Double Security) concept uses a reinforced case back gasket system for enhanced water resistance. On genuine models, the case back sits perfectly flush with the case with no visible gaps. The DS Action Diver is rated for 300m. Counterfeits lack the proper gasket system and often show slight gaps between case and case back.
Turtle Logo on Crown
The Certina turtle (tortoise) logo is engraved on the crown and applied to the dial at 12 o'clock. On genuine watches, the turtle is finely detailed with visible shell pattern, head, and legs. It should be perfectly centered and proportioned. Counterfeits often have a simplified blob shape or miss the shell pattern details entirely.
Ceramic Bezel (Diver models)
The DS Action Diver features a ceramic bezel insert with engraved and filled numerals. The ceramic should have a consistent, rich color with a slight gloss. Markings are recessed into the ceramic and filled with paint or lume. Counterfeits use aluminum inserts with printed markings that sit on top of the surface and wear over time.
Dial Text & Printing Quality
"CERTINA" and "DS ACTION" text should be perfectly sharp with consistent letter spacing. The Swiss Made designation should appear at 6 o'clock. Applied indices should be precisely positioned with polished facets. The Certina star emblem above "Swiss Made" should be clearly defined. Counterfeits show blurry text and misaligned indices.
Case Back Engravings
The case back features the Certina name, turtle logo, reference number, serial number, water resistance rating, and DS concept marking. All engravings should be deep, crisp, and properly aligned. The turtle on the case back should match the quality of the dial version. Counterfeits have shallow, poorly spaced engravings.
Movement & Display Case Back
Models with display case backs should reveal a Powermatic 80 movement (same family as Tissot, Swatch Group) with proper finishing, Geneva stripes on the rotor, and Certina branding. The movement layout and bridge design should match Certina's specifications. Counterfeits use cheap generic movements.
DS Action counterfeit warning signs
Simplified Turtle Logo
The most common tell on fake Certina watches. The turtle logo should show clear anatomical detail — shell segments, head, legs, and tail. Counterfeits often have a vague oval shape with minimal detail.
Missing DS Concept Markings
Genuine DS Action watches prominently feature the DS concept designation. Counterfeits often omit this marking or misspell it. The case back should specifically reference the DS concept gasket system.
Aluminum Bezel on Diver Model
On the DS Action Diver, a non-ceramic bezel is an immediate red flag. Test by running a fingernail across markings — ceramic markings are filled into the surface while printed markings on aluminum sit on top.
Wrong Movement
Through the display case back, verify the movement matches Certina's Powermatic 80 (on automatic models). The rotor should display Certina branding and proper finishing. Chinese movements with different bridge layouts are an obvious counterfeit indicator.
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Frequently asked questions
What is Certina's DS (Double Security) concept?
DS stands for Double Security, Certina's proprietary case construction system introduced in 1959. It uses a specially reinforced case back gasket and a unique case back design that provides enhanced water resistance and shock protection. The system was famously tested by strapping a Certina DS to the outer hull of a submarine. On the DS Action Diver, this technology helps achieve 300 meters of water resistance. The DS concept is unique to Certina and is difficult for counterfeiters to replicate properly.
What movements does Certina use?
As part of the Swatch Group, Certina has access to ETA movements. The DS Action automatic models use the Powermatic 80 caliber (shared platform with Tissot), offering an 80-hour power reserve with a silicon hairspring. Quartz models use ETA-based quartz movements. The Powermatic 80 is based on the ETA C07.111 and features Nivachron technology for improved anti-magnetic properties. These movements are well-finished and identifiable through display case backs.
How does Certina compare to other Swatch Group brands?
Certina sits in the Swatch Group's mid-range, positioned between Hamilton and Tissot in terms of sport watch focus. While Tissot is more diverse in its offerings, Certina specializes in robust sport watches with its DS concept. Certina offers similar Powermatic 80 movements as Tissot but with a stronger emphasis on water resistance and durability. The brand offers excellent value for those seeking a reliable Swiss sport watch with genuine dive capabilities.