Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 - Ltd Ed 1961pcs Ref. M026.807.33.051.00

Seventy-five years after the unveiling of its first Ocean Star, MIDO has launched a special-edition series in homage to this iconic collection, known since the 1940s for its unfailing water-resistance. Those two new Ocean Star Tributes are a magnificent contemporary reinterpretation of the diver's watches created in the 1960s. In continuation of those two popular releases, Mido has introduced its popular 1961 Diver – the Limited Edition Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 – Ref. M026.807.33.051.00 in only 1961 pieces.

Mido Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 - Ltd Ed 1961pcs Ref. M026.807.33.051.00

The Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 reproduces the Ocean Star Skin Diver watch, with its irresistible vintage charm known as the Powerwind1000 Ref.5907, a popular 1960s MIDO model that remains one of the brand's most sought-after original timepieces to date. Dedicated to the uprising popularity of skin-diving, this watch served as an essential diving tool thanks to the dial's multi-colored display of decompression stops. However, only bearing a lifespan of 5 years, this Ocean Star became a collectible piece that currently fetches a premium in the vintage market.
 
For those who are kin of getting one of these "deco-divers" from Mido, no worries as the brand had you covered here with this modern re-make. It uses the best of current technology to revive the unique codes of the time, namely a rotating bezel with a countdown timer and a colored table beneath. This watch is equipped with another modern touch, the Mido Automatic ETA, offering a power reserve of up to 80 hours.

Multi-colored display of decompression stops

Let us confess a little bit here, we at Gnomon Watches. We believe a lot of you do appreciate an excellent vintage re-issue, wait, we meant any, to be well finished in today's Swiss Made luxury standard! Kudos to Mido that the Ocean Star Decompression Timer does meet this level through and through.
 
Like its Tribute series and sized for modern tastes, the Ocean Star measures a 40.5mm diameter case with a height of 13.4mm. The straightforward and robust design was archetypal that stamped the world of dive watches since its popularity of recreational diving in the 60s. The Ocean Star Tribute furthers bears their iconic straight lugs mid-case design with a mixture of high polish on all sides to enhance the 60s look's tool-watch. To be honest, the finishings done here are almost impeccable, elevating luxurious sides out from its shadow.

SuperLuminova for Superb Glow In Dark

True to the 1961 Powerwind 1000, the uni-directional bezel features a black bezel with 60-minute countdown markings and a luminous pip at the zero markers. This is something unusual, but rather popular back then as it was made famous by brands like Doxa and Mido. In other words, it gives the Ocean Star Decompression Timer an original vintage charm of a 60s skin diver. On the side, a signed screw-down crown is flanked by a pair of beak-shaped crown guards. Flipping it over, the Ocean Star bears a screw-down case-back with a 'starfish' emblem that is synonymous with the Ocean Star collection, which is a nice touch.
 
And as a pioneer of the water-tight case in the early 30s, Mido gets the water-resistance up to a pressure of 20 bars (200 m/660 ft), an essential feature of any diver's watch. At the same time, most of us might most probably bring it to the beach for some sun-tanning with our children, or at the office behind our desk "diving" away.

Right underneath its domed box-shaped sapphire crystal lies an eye-catching dial that displays a multi-colored decompression scale. Although its colorfulness is appealing, it was originated to serve a purpose underwater. It allows the diver to perform decompression stops, ensuring a safe trip back onto the surface without suffering from "the bend" when they resurface too quickly.

Comes with two additional straps

With that severe note aside, the vibrant dial does draw one's attention with its "rainbow" accents. Its cosmetic set out a flamboyant look that wouldn't look out of place during the summer season. From the markings and color rings to the iconic 12,3,6, and 9 Arabic numerals at the cardinal points of its inner section, Mido nails the aesthetics of its original 1961 diver. Even more so, with a color-matching date window at three' o clock and the original diamond-cut handset, with a short triangular hour hand and a baton-shaped minute hands, which stretches all the way to the black rehaut. On the periphery, it also features metallic stripes with matching Super-LumiNova as its hands and bezel pip.

In completing the package, the Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 Limited Edition is paired with the vintage-styled Milanese mesh bracelet for a full retro look which comes with quick-release spring bars for simple strap changing experience, no tools needed.
 
Limited to 1961 pieces worldwide, the Mido Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 – Ltd Ed 1961 Pcs Ref. M026.807.33.051.00 is a great dive watch that caters to today's enthusiasts that are looking for something with genuine nostalgia. Since its birth 60 years ago, the rainbow diver sets out to be one of the most distinctive dive watches ever built by the capable Swiss brand. With the inclusion of an eye-catching decompression scale on the dial was brazen and ingenious back in the 60s, Mido has succeeded once again in paying tribute to its centenary history with a bright, pleasant rainbow.

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