The new Certina Chronographe DS-8 Phase de Lune Watch is a dressy timepiece that reaches for the moon by adding a new complication that shows the mean duration of the cycle and quarters of the moon.
This newcomer perfectly combines an amazing exterior with the impeccable quartz chronograph movement. The reliable ETA G10.962 BH PRD Precidrive mechanism provides an unprecedented level of precision that is about ten times better than that of a normal quartz timepiece. The mechanism belongs to well-known Thermoline family of electric movements. The 4 jewels movement comes with the power reserve of approximately 38 months.
The quartz movement features the usual set of functions ( hour, minute and second), as well as the usual chronograph, a simple calendar at the 4 o’clock position and a moonphase display. There is also an “average length of lunar cycle” display that might be interesting for those of you who like an extra complication on your timekeeping companion.
The new DS-8 Phase de Lune is housed in a round stainless steel case which measures 41mm. The case is a little bit larger than an average dressy three-hander, but it perfectly fits with an average size wrist and it actually looks smaller and thinner when it is worn. The case is constructed to resist water pressure up to 100 meters (about 330 feet).
Underneath the front sapphire glass with antireflective coating lies a stunning dial that shines not only with its PVD-treated elements, but also with the way all of them are put together. Certina offered a choice among three different dial colors – anthracite (ref. C033.450.16.081.00), black (ref. C033.450.11.051.00) and silver one (ref. C033.450.16.031.00). Although it is full of information, I must say that it doesn’t look overwhelmed.
The sapphire case back displays the DS “Turtle” emblem. The new Certina wristwatch is attached to a leather strap with a twin-pusher butterfly clasp. For those who are more into a bracelet, there is a stainless steel bracelet.
When it comes to the price, depending on a mode, the retail price is between CHF 765 and CHF 795 which is at current exchange rate between $820 and $850.