Certina DS-X GMT: A Functional And Colorful Travel Companion
Certina expands its GMT offering with the launch of the new DS-X GMT collection, a versatile and durable range built for both everyday wear and travel. Available in five variations, the collection blends Swiss reliability with bold color schemes, sporty aesthetics, and practical features at an accessible price point.
Case and Construction
All models in the DS-X GMT lineup share the same stainless steel case, measuring 41 mm in diameter, 48.20 mm lug-to-lug, and 12.15 mm in thickness. The case is engineered from 316L stainless steel, a corrosion-resistant alloy commonly used in dive watches, offering durability and comfort on the wrist. Each model includes a screw-down crown and Certina’s proprietary DS (Double Security) system, which enhances the watch’s resistance to water, shocks, and external pressure.
A sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating protects the dial, and a 200-meter water resistance rating positions the DS-X GMT firmly in the category of robust sport watches suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and even light diving.
Design Variations
The DS-X GMT is offered in a range of dial and bezel combinations to cater to different styles. The lineup includes gray dials paired with either a black/green or black/red aluminum GMT bezel, and each of these versions can be selected with a rubber strap or a three-row stainless steel bracelet.
The standout reference features a white dial and a two-tone blue and orange 24-hour bezel, complemented by a vivid blue rubber strap. This version incorporates seasonal, high-contrast colors that enhance legibility while emphasizing a casual, summer-ready style.
Bezel and Dial Features
A unique detail of the DS-X GMT is its dual bezel system. The watch incorporates a friction-fit, bidirectional compass bezel over a clicking, bidirectional aluminum 24-hour bezel. This layered approach not only enhances functionality but also sets the design apart from typical GMT configurations.
The dials are clean and legible, featuring applied indices with polished edges, Super-LumiNova-filled hour and minute hands, and a 24-hour hand with a bright orange arrow tip. The inner rehaut on the white-dial version is executed in angled blue, further adding depth and contrast to the display.
All color elements are purposefully chosen to align with their respective models. The printing on the dial matches the dominant accent colors—orange and blue for the white dial model, red or green for others—adding a cohesive aesthetic touch.
Movement and Functionality
Inside the DS-X GMT is the ETA F06.865, a Swiss quartz movement that offers more than just accurate timekeeping. This movement features HeavyDrive technology for enhanced shock resistance and includes a flyer-style GMT complication—a feature typically reserved for mechanical watches at higher price points.
This configuration allows the local hour hand to be adjusted independently in one-hour increments without stopping the watch, ideal for travelers crossing time zones. The date is also linked to this hand, allowing for quick and intuitive date changes.
Strap and Comfort
The collection includes both FKM rubber straps and brushed stainless steel bracelets, each fitted with a signed buckle or clasp. The rubber straps are flexible, durable, and well-suited for active use, while the bracelets add a more classic and substantial presence to the wrist.
Despite the watch’s rugged build, it remains relatively light and comfortable, thanks in part to the compact lug design and ergonomic curvature of the case back.
Pricing and Availability
Certina has priced the DS-X GMT competitively, aligning it with entry-level GMT offerings from other well-known brands. The rubber strap variants retail for € 570, while models on a stainless steel bracelet are priced at € 595. This makes the DS-X GMT an attractive option for buyers looking for a true travel watch with professional-grade specs, quartz convenience, and bold, modern styling.
Conclusion
The Certina DS-X GMT collection offers a compelling mix of style, performance, and value. With a robust case, functional dual bezel system, flyer GMT movement, and a splash of color, the DS-X GMT is built for everyday utility and adventure alike. Whether you’re navigating time zones or simply looking for a sporty summer-ready watch, Certina’s latest release delivers.
More information at www.certina.com.
General Specifications:
Brand: Certina
Model: DS-X GMT
Reference: C047.452.17.011.00 (white dial on a rubber strap), C047.452.17.081.01 (gray dial on a black rubber strap), C047.452.17.081.00 (gray dial on a green rubber strap), C047.452.11.081.01 (gray dial with red bezel on a steel bracelet), C047.452.11.081.00 (gray dial with green bezel on a steel bracelet)
Dial: White, grey
Lume: Super-LumiNova
Case Material: Stainless steel
Case Dimensions: 41 mm Diameter, 12.15 mm thickness, 48.20 mm lug-to-lug
Crystal: Sapphire Glass
Case Back: Stainless steel
Water Resistance: 200 Meters
Strap: Stainless steel or titanium bracelet with a folding clasp, rubber strap with a steel pin buckle
Calibre: ETA F06.865
Functions: Hours, minutes, seconds, date, gmt
Winding: Quartz with HeavyDrive shock managemen
Price: € 570 (on a rubber strap), € 595 (on a steel bracelet)
Availability: Now
Limited Edition: No
