If you ask me about my favorite affordable dive watches, the Certina DS Action Diver 38mm in titanium will always be on the list.
When Certina released the lightweight 38mm version of its popular dive model, it immediately attracted attention not only for its optimal size, reliable features, and attractive price, but also for its unique combination of materials and colors. Titanium with a brown-gray aluminum bezel insert and a gray dial with blue indices made this model a favorite among fans, with the starting price just above €1,000. Over time, the price rose slightly, but the watch remained one of the best offers in the segment. In 2026, Certina updated the model and expanded the series with two new options. I tested the updated version to see if it has become even better.
Main Features of the Updated Certina DS Action Diver 38mm Titanium
In the review of the first version of the 38mm Titanium DS Action Diver, we wondered if this model could compete with the Tudor Pelagos 39. While for many this comparison seemed exaggerated, it was justified because Certina offers excellent value for money, as well as attractive design and features comparable to Tudor. The updated version has retained these advantages. The price has increased slightly - it is now €1,095 / CHF 925. Additionally, the bezel received a ceramic insert instead of an aluminum one. Two new color versions have also appeared: the first with a black dial and pink indices, and the second with a bright blue dial and orange hour markers. These novelties have made the series more noticeable in the brand's collection.
Details of the Updated DS Action Diver 38mm Titanium Model
Despite the appearance of two new color options, my attention was focused on the successor to the original model. The watch design still stands out - stylish yet lively. The new variants look brighter and less restrained, so the choice was obvious. Additionally, I wanted to check how the updates improved the model. It is important to note that the titanium versions received the same improvements as the steel 38mm models.
The main changes are a reinforced case with improved DS Concept Extreme Shock Resistance and a ceramic bezel insert. Thanks to the new impact-resistant design, the Grade 2 titanium case now measures 38 × 44 mm with a thickness of 13.2 mm. Water resistance remained at 300 meters, and the watch meets the ISO 6425 standard, like the previous version.
Compared to its predecessor, the model became 1 mm thicker. However, thanks to the lightness of titanium, this is almost unnoticeable in weight. Nevertheless, it would have been nice if Certina had maintained a thinner profile - this is important both in terms of aesthetics and wearing comfort. The case has a completely matte finish, which highlights the shade of titanium and gives the watch an attractive yet utilitarian look.
Differences of the New Version from the Previous DS Action Diver 38mm Titanium
The main difference is the unidirectional bezel with a polished ceramic insert. Certina replaced the matte aluminum insert with a shiny ceramic one, changing the color from brown-gray to a shade closer to the dial's gray. This significantly changed the character of the watch.
The dark gray dial with a date window at 3 o'clock and applied hour markers with blue luminescence remained. Although the combination of gray with blue is still successful, the new bezel insert makes the watch more modern and cool in perception. As a result, the unique charisma that made the previous model special has disappeared.
The appearance is complemented by a Grade 2 titanium bracelet with three-row links on screws and a clasp with a push-button lock. The clasp has three holes for micro-adjustment, similar to the steel versions. An extension for wearing over a wetsuit is absent here. Also, Certina does not use the tool-free micro-adjustment system that many competitors have, which would have been a useful improvement for the DS Action Diver.
Powermatic 80.611 Movement
Inside the case, the same automatic caliber Powermatic 80.611 is installed as in the previous generation. The movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour and provides a power reserve of up to 80 hours. Additionally, it is equipped with a stop-seconds function, quick date setting, and an anti-magnetic Nivachron balance spring. The movement is hidden behind a polished case back with the brand's signature turtle logo.
Wearing the Updated Certina DS Action Diver 38mm Titanium
The new version remains attractive and stands out among competitors. In my opinion, these are some of the most stylish watches in the price range up to €1,500. The case size is optimal, and the design meets expectations for sports dive watches. As mentioned, the lightweight titanium compensates for the slight increase in thickness, and the watch does not feel significantly heavier than the previous model. However, the profile has become slightly bulkier, and despite the improved shock resistance, there is a sense of a slight step back. In a world full of bulky divers, an update with a thinner case around 12.2 mm would be welcome.
The main remarks concern changes in materials and color. The unique combination of titanium shade, brown-gray aluminum insert, and gray dial with blue markers was truly special. The new polished ceramic insert is too shiny and immediately makes the watch more flashy. Additionally, the dark gray insert made the model less stylish and, frankly speaking, less interesting.
Final Conclusions
One might ask if the new Certina DS Action Diver 38mm Titanium is objectively better than the previous one. The answer is yes. The enhanced shock resistance of the case and scratch resistance of the bezel make the watch technically superior to its predecessor. At the same time, the price remained very affordable, which deserves special praise. For €1,095 / CHF 925, you still get some of the most functional dive watches in its price segment.
However, as a design enthusiast, I am not inclined to judge watches solely by improved features. Especially if the previous version looked so good, I would always wish to see the same unique charisma in the update. In this case, it's a bit lacking. This proves that one element can play a crucial role in the overall perception of a model. Could Certina have used a textured ceramic insert? Yes, it's possible. Could the company have created an insert color similar to the previous version? That would have been more difficult.
But the fact is, Certina didn't do it. And I understand why - matching the color of the dial and bezel is logical, and the shiny ceramic insert has become a standard in dive watches. Nevertheless, it left me with mixed feelings. As a result, the watch lost the unique soul that fans, including myself, valued so much. I will miss it. But the reality is that the updated Certina DS Action Diver 38mm Titanium remains one of the most stylish affordable dive watches. Thankfully, the new bezel insert didn't hinder this.