For the brand new Mido Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 Restricted Version, the model determined to launch a black PVD model. At first, this is perhaps shocking because of the Decompression Timer’s colourful dial. If you consider it a little bit longer, although, it is sensible. The black general aesthetic ensures that the dial really pops. And never solely does it make for a cool model of the watch, but it surely additionally affords nice performance. It’s time to search out out extra about this 1,961-piece restricted version from Mido.
To these aware of classic watches, Mido giving a ’60s-inspired timepiece a black makeover might look like a conflict of types. Admittedly, the mix of the basic seems of 1961’s Ocean Star Decompression Timer and a contemporary black PVD coating felt unusual to me. However, considering again, I then realized it’s not that odd. The Porsche Design Chronograph 1 (1972) and the Heuer Monaco “Darkish Lord” (1974) are nice examples of early blacked-out watches, and I like each. That realization instantly modified my mindset about this new Mido watch. Positive, in 1961, black PVD was not but a factor. However, the context did deliver each realities a bit nearer collectively.
The story of the Mido Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961
So, let’s remind ourselves of the Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 story. Mido revived its 1961 Ocean Star Pores and skin Diver Watch in 2020, a lot to the delight of classic fanatics. Fratello’s Tomas Rosputinsky has a classic model, and he had an opportunity to check it to the trendy 2020 reissue. After spending time with the brand new model, he known as it essentially the most hanging re-edition of that 12 months.

Final 12 months’s Decompression Worldtimer in black and orange
The profitable black-dial reissue of the watch led to a white and lightweight blue follow-up model in 2021. Then, final 12 months, we noticed the discharge of a blue Worldtimer model that mixed multi-time performance with the colourful Decompression Timer. It was a part of a collection of two Decompression “Worldtimer” GMTs, with the second mannequin (above) that includes a black, brilliant yellow, orange, and crimson dial. I cherished the latter mannequin as a result of the dial stood out a lot due to its brilliant colours.
A black polished PVD case
Now Mido has launched the subsequent model of the Decompression Timer. Internally, it follows the 2020 reissue, however the full-black case and black mesh bracelet are the principle variations, they usually change the look considerably. The brand new stealthy look fits the watch somewhat effectively. As I mentioned within the intro, it makes the colourful dial absolutely the star of the present. Let’s have a look at some specs to get an concept. The watch nonetheless options the identical 200m-water-resistant case with its 40.5mm diameter, 47mm lug-to-lug, and 13.4mm thickness.
This stainless-steel case will get a cultured black PVD therapy that contrasts properly with the matte black bezel insert with white numerals and markings. The dial contains a matte black base colour, and the colourful decompression scale is executed in acquainted brilliant hues (yellow, inexperienced, pink, and blue). The outer black a part of the dial options polished utilized hour markers full of white Tremendous-LumiNova.
On the within of the decompression scale, you’ll find the three, 6, 9, and 12 numerals additionally handled with white Tremendous-LumiNova. Moreover, the middle options the utilized Mido brand, which matches the handset properly. Lastly, you’ll find a big date window at 3 o’clock with a black date disc with white printing. Total, the design is busy, however as we all know, the totally different parts are straightforward to learn due to the colours and the arms.
Combine issues up with the three totally different strap choices
The stealthy new Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 comes fitted with a black PVD-treated polished Milanese mesh stainless-steel bracelet. This bracelet contains a sliding clasp with an engraved Mido brand, making certain you’re at all times in a position to measurement the watch completely. However you additionally get two straps with the watch, and due to the quick-release pins, they’re straightforward to swap. The primary is a blue Tropic-style rubber strap that matches the blue colour on the dial. The second is a black calfskin strap with stitching that matches the 4 colours of the decompression scale. It’s a pleasant and playful little element that ensures the leather-based strap shouldn’t be overly severe.
Contained in the case, Mido equips the watch with its ETA C07.621-based Caliber 80. It’s a variation of the Swatch Group’s well-liked Powermatic 80 actions that energy watches from a number of totally different manufacturers. The automated motion operates at 21,600vph, has 25 jewels, and affords 80 hours of energy reserve. It hides behind the black screw-in case again, which contains a polished starfish in reduction, an engraved serial quantity, and every watch’s LE quantity out of the 1,961 items that Mido will produce.
Closing ideas on the black PVD Mido Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 Restricted Version
I like what Mido has carried out with this new black-coated version of its Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961. Regardless of my preliminary reservations, I believe it’s a look that fits the watch effectively. And truthfully, I’m not the largest fan of blacked-out watches. They typically disguise the weather that give them character. That’s not the case with the Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961. Mixed with the black general aesthetic, the attribute colourful dial immediately attracts the attention. It’s an amazing distinction that makes this a enjoyable launch.
If given the possibility, although, I’d in all probability put on the watch on the blue rubber strap. Not solely does it present an additional little bit of colour to interrupt the stealthy seems, however I believe it additionally makes the watch look higher. In my view, that mixture is the true winner of the three.
Mido will in all probability promote all 1,961 items of this restricted version pretty rapidly. Whereas it won’t have the classic enchantment of its predecessors, it does match the lineup somewhat properly. That’s why I don’t doubt that individuals who accumulate all of the totally different variations and followers who love this black aesthetic will fortunately pay €1,620 for this contemporary tackle the favored Mido basic. And for that cash, you continue to get an amazing, funky dive watch that’s on the coronary heart of the Mido model.
For extra info, go to the official Mido web site. Tell us within the feedback part what your favourite of the 4 Ocean Star Decompression Timer fashions is.