At a time when the world most needed a tinge of color to brighten up a rather dark and gloomy phase in history, Mido answered the call with their latest announcement of the re-release of the original 1961 Ocean Star Decompression Timer in an exciting limited edition model. Following the astonishing resurrection of Mido’s 1961 Ocean Star Decompression Timer in 2020, which absolutely thrilled those who had a soft spot for vintage watches, this crowd-pleasing ‘rainbow diver’ makes its highly anticipated return with a little extra splash of color.
Being one of the most prevalent categories of watches that appeal to countless watch lovers, dive watches undeniably fit into any collection of timepieces for its practicality, distinct style and robustness (most of you reading this probably have at least one dive watch for dependable daily driver). However, with many brands continuously turning to relatively “safe” designs that are easily accepted by the masses, it can be somewhat monotonous at times, especially for collectors seeking for bold, unconventional-looking dive watches. While the Mido Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 – Ltd Ed may not be your ordinary dive watch, it is certainly an attractive heritage model that represents one of Mido’s most groundbreaking releases back in the 60s which offered an innovative multi-colored decompression scale function, and frankly, the implementation of this functional, and slightly quirky dial looks amazing even by today’s standards.
Like a bolt from the blue, Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 – Ltd Ed rejoins the party looking as fresh as ever with its iconic ‘rainbow’ dial now presented in a frisky silver colorway underneath the boxed sapphire crystal, a charming change that wonderfully complements the lively pastel colors on the central decompression scale. In addition, this 2021 limited edition adopts a brand new bezel that deviates from the original black bezel from the original 60s model that was seen on last year’s limited re-release, the retrograde aluminium 60-minute countdown bezel takes on a new eye-catching turquoise insert which brings a whole different personality to the vintage design.
Limited to only 1961 pieces worldwide, the Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 – Ltd Ed brings forward many of the attractive specifications of its predecessor including the capable Mido cal. 80 automatic movement boasting an impressive 80 hours of power reserve and a fully polished stainless steel case construction. Measuring with a case diameter of a pleasing 40.5mm, you can expect a comfortable fit on the wrist while exhibiting a strong wrist presence of a modern dive watch.
If I could imagine the perfect watch for a weekend trip to the beach, basking under the summer sun and taking a dip in the ocean, this could possibly be it. While the Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 – Ltd Ed is originally built as a utilitarian tool watch serving the function of aiding divers to perform decompression stops, the vibrant colors of this handsome release evidently give off a somewhat playful vibe (let’s be honest, most of us aren’t probably going to use this watch specifically for professional diving). Moreover, the outlandish yet incredibly attractive appearance would definitely be a great conversation starter for fellow watch enthusiasts, and the rest of the non-watch collecting world.
Coming paired with a 21mm vintage-style mesh stainless steel bracelet, Mido included an additional set of two strap options including a brown calfskin leather strap and a lovely turquoise fabric strap to match the new colorway. All in all, the Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 – Ltd Ed truly takes the well-loved retro appearance of its original 60s model to the next level with an added flair of attractive color. Without a doubt, this sensational return of one of the brand’s most sought-after vintage timepieces will definitely ignite a spark in the hearts of plenty of vintage watch lovers.
