The MIDO Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 pays tribute to the original Ocean Star Skin Diver model. Thanks to its colourful decompression table, this watch was extremely popular among divers, as it allowed them to easily read decompression stops.
The model was first launched in 1961. This is its fifth version, this time in a limited edition of 1961 pieces. These diving watches in a shiny black case with a colored scale have been revived using cutting-edge materials and modern technologies, but they have remained faithful to the original retro design.
In addition to the decompression table, other historical details associated with the underwater world have also been preserved: a unidirectional rotating bezel, sapphire crystal in the shape of a "glassbox" reminiscent of old plexiglass, and a size of 40.5 mm – a small diameter that was common in the past. The vintage MIDO logo on the black dial, case back, crown, and clasp has an unmistakable historical charm.
The back cover features the Ocean Star collection symbol – a starfish – a reference to many years of diving experience and high water resistance. Thanks to the screw-down crown and screw-down case back, the case is water resistant to 200 meters.
The Caliber 80 is a reliable movement with an excellent power reserve of up to 80 hours and an antimagnetic Nivachron hairspring.
Decompression scale
The vibrant colors of the decompression scale on a black background have been retained from the original model. This is not a replacement for modern diving equipment, but a preservation of the aesthetic charm of the past. Yellow, green, pink, and blue indicate recommended stops. The unidirectional rotating bezel with an aluminum ring counts down the time using a large luminescent dot that serves as a marker. Super-LumiNova® is used on the hour and minute hands and on the polished indices.
On watches like this, readability is key, whether in the sun or in the depths.
The solid stainless steel case has a high-gloss black PVD coating to emphasize its character.
Each of the 1,961 pieces comes in a special box containing a limited edition certificate and a set of three straps: a shiny black Milanese mesh strap with PVD finish, a semi-gloss blue textured rubber strap, and a genuine calfskin strap with stitching in the colors of the dial. A simple system allows you to quickly change the strap without tools and customize the look of the watch to suit your mood and occasion.
