Bremont Terra Nova 42.5 ChronographvsCertina DS-7 Chrono Auto

Owners report the DLC coating on the Bremont Terra Nova 42.5 Chronograph is durable, though one noted a ding on the barrel. The chronograph hand resets slightly off-center for one owner. Reviewers describe the 42.5mm case as blocky with satin finishing and minimal polishing, noting its 48.8mm lug-to-lug and 14.8mm thickness felt bulky on leather but improved with elastic or rubber straps. The winding action is satisfying, and the chronograph pushers are crisp, though the start/stop pusher requires significant force. The Cupro-Aluminium case is expected to patina over time, and the watch features a bi-directional bronze compass bezel with a black ceramic insert and a green gradient dial with full-block Super-LumiNova numerals. The rear sapphire caseback on a prototype was too dark to appreciate the movement, and text around a tourbillon window detracted from the dial.

Owners and reviewers widely praise the Certina DS-7 Chrono Auto for its retro 1970s-inspired design, featuring a waffle-style dial with raised sub-dial rings and a contrasting red seconds hand, all housed in a refined 42mm brushed steel case. The watch is noted for its excellent finishing and sporty aesthetic, with some owners remarking that it wears smaller than its 42mm case size due to its thinness for an automatic. The integrated bracelet is generally well-received, though one reviewer found the included strap to be cheap, uncomfortable, and an impractical 21mm width. The automatic movement is cited as a robust Valjoux A05.231 with a 68-hour power reserve, and the watch is considered a great value. One owner notes the movement beats at 21,600 bph, resulting in a more noticeable tick rather than a smooth sweep. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Certina DS-7 Chrono Auto highly for its attractive retro design and excellent value proposition.