The Watch
The Chronolympic models were Certina’s best-known and most successful line of chronographs, and featured a lot of interesting and beautiful pieces. The first Chronolympic models (Ref. 8501 503) came to the market at a time when chronographs were becoming popular again at the end of the 1960s. Manual winding movements like the Valjoux 232, 234 and 726 were initially used, before an automatic version with the Valjoux 7750 was launched in 1975.
In 1970, Certina equipped a Japanese expedition team with five DS-2 Chronolympic watches. Certina had also previously supported a Swiss expedition. The goal of this Japanese expedition was Mount Everest. In the course of this tour, after having climbed 7,986 metres within two months, Yuichiro Miura (see photo right below) strapped the skis to his feet and dashed down the slopes reaching speeds of up to 160 km/h, slowed only by the use of a brake parachute.
Miura, who became world-renowned for his daring ski run, was stopped after 2 minutes and 20 seconds having covered a descent of 2,000 metres. He lost control on an icy patch, tumbled and was seriously injured sliding down the slope for several hundred metres.
The exceptional ski run is documented in the movie, “The Man Who Skied Down Everest,” which won the Oscar for best documentary film in 1976.
According to some reports, the Certinas endured this expedition very well and met all demands despite the adverse conditions.
Specific Information
Object nr: 374
Brand: Certina
Model: Chronolympic
Reference: 8601 800
Year: 1970’s
Movement: Cal. 2906-31, valjoux 234.
Material: Stainless steel
Original crown: Yes
Dimensions: 42.5 x 47 x 16.5 mm
Strap/Bracelet: A black original HIRSCH ”Ascot” strap
Lug Width: 20mm
Box/Papers: No/No
Serviced: Yes, warranty until 24-06-30
The Condition
This rare Certina Chronolympic is in an outstandig original condition.
The case is well preserved and in nice condition with original bevels. We hope you can tell from the pictures how sharp it is. The case have some small scratches from use as seen in the photos but nothing remarkabel. The crown is original and in very good condition.
The dial is an original, 100% factory original dial. The dial shows different character depending on the light. It got some small signs of ageing and patina but is as you can see in an amazing condition.
The original crystal is new without any scratches. So is also the strap.
Sold "as serviced”!
The pictures is a part of the description, study therefore the pictures carefully!
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