Introducing MIDO Revives The Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 Limited Edition

MIDO pays tribute to its iconic Ocean Star collection by revisiting the aesthetic codes of the 1960s diving models. The new Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 Limited Edition, first introduced in 2020 with a steel case, now retains its vibrant dial while offering a PVD-coated case and additional strap and bracelet options.

As part of the Swatch Group, MIDO is renowned for its diving watches, particularly the Ocean Star collection. The latest releases continue to uphold this legacy, with the Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 standing out as a remarkable example.

This new limited edition maintains the same dimensions as the 2020 release, with the exception of the PVD-coated case. The 40.5mm stainless steel case, now coated in black PVD, measures 47mm lug-to-lug and has a thickness of 13.4mm. 

The watch is water-resistant up to 200 meters, thanks to its screw-down crown and solid case back, which features the customary MIDO Ocean Star starfish emblem and the limited edition number. The unidirectional bezel showcases a 60-minute scale in white, essential for timing underwater activities, including the dial's decompression scale.

The dial is undoubtedly the most eye-catching element of this watch, and its vibrant colors serve a purpose. The decompression scale's colors on this model have been restored to their original pink, yellow, green, and blue tones, now set against a black backdrop that complements the case beautifully.

 Scuba diving became highly commercialized in the 1960s, but decompression sickness, or "the bends," remained a serious concern. To avoid this, divers must ascend slowly, allowing their bodies to adjust gradually to the decreasing pressure. This dial enables divers to calculate their surfacing speed. The numbers above 12 o'clock, ranging from 25-40 meters and 80-130 feet, represent diving depth, while the other numbers indicate the time required for decompression. For example, after diving for 30 minutes at a depth of 35 meters, a diver would need to spend 25 minutes decompressing, as indicated by the pink ring and timed using the bezel.

Powering the watch is the MIDO Caliber 80, an automatic movement based on the ETA C07.621. This movement offers an 80-hour power reserve, beats at 21,600 vph (3Hz), and it is adjusted in three positions for an accuracy of +/-7 seconds per day to +/-20 seconds per day.

The watch comes with versatile strap options, including a black PVD-coated stainless steel Milanese bracelet, a black leather strap, and a light blue rubber strap, all equipped with quick-release spring bars for easy swapping.

The MIDO Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 Limited Edition is restricted to 1,961 pieces and is priced at CHF 1,350, equivalent to AED 5,700.

Fore more information please visit Mido’s official website.