Certina DS-2vsVaer D5 Meridian Auto

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Measurements

Catalog photos are all shot at the same flattering size. These aren't: every case below shares one millimeter scale.

Certina DS-2 at true scale

DS-2

Vaer D5 Meridian Auto at true scale

D5 Meridian Auto

Diameter

40mm

39mm

Lug-to-Lug

45.7mm

lowest

46mm

Thickness

12.7mm

12.5mm

lowest

Water Resistance

200m

200m

Power Reserve

80h

n/a

MSRP

$1,107

$729

lowest

Movement

POWERMATIC 80.611

Miyota 9015

Case

4 specs
Diameter
40mm
39mm
Thickness
12.65mm
12.5mm
Lug-to-Lug
45.7mm
46mm
Material
Stainless Steel
316L Stainless Steel

Crystal & Dial

1 specs
Dial Color
n/a
Black

Movement

2 specs
Caliber
POWERMATIC 80.611
Miyota 9015
Power Reserve
80h
0h

Pricing

1 specs
MSRP
$1,107
$729
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Reviews

Synthesized for each watch independently from owner discussions, enthusiast forums, written reviews, and video reviewers.

Certina DS-2

Owners widely praise the Certina DS-2 for its legible 40mm case, beautiful date window, and stunning lume, complemented by its robust 200m water resistance and Certina's Double Security system. Reviewers highlight its value, historical authenticity, and solid build, with one noting the dynamic sunburst red dial. Some owners express surprise at a reported hand motor malfunction, while others are pleasantly surprised by the quality of the case, dial, and movement. A few reviewers and owners would prefer an engraved case back over the exhibition case back and one owner found the bracelet to feel low quality. Overall, owners and reviewers rate the Certina DS-2 highly for its excellent value and faithful vintage-inspired design.

Vaer D5 Meridian Auto

Owners widely praise the Vaer D5 Meridian Auto for its classic aesthetic, comfortable 39mm wearability, and well-executed 120-click bezel with minimal back play. Reviewers highlight the anodized aluminum bezel insert, lyre lugs, sword hands, and gold accents on the blue sunburst dial as contributing to its old-school charm. One owner notes the watch keeps good time, running 3-5 seconds fast per month. On balance, owners and reviewers rate the Vaer D5 Meridian Auto highly for its vintage-inspired design and comfortable dimensions at its price point.

From video reviewers

The D5 Meridian Auto is praised for its classic 39mm diver proportions and USA assembly. No shared weaknesses were identified.