Introducing: The Mido Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 Limited Edition In Stealthy Black

For the new Mido Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 Limited Edition, the brand decided to release a black PVD version. At first, this might be surprising due to the Decompression Timer’s colorful dial. If you think about it a little longer, though, it makes sense. The black overall aesthetic ensures that the dial truly pops. And not only does it make for a funky version of the watch, but it also offers great functionality. It’s time to find out more about this 1,961-piece limited edition from Mido.

To those familiar with vintage watches, Mido giving a ’60s-inspired timepiece a black makeover may seem like a clash of styles. Admittedly, the combination of the classic looks of 1961’s Ocean Star Decompression Timer and a modern black PVD coating felt strange to me. But, thinking back, I then realized it’s not that odd. The Porsche Design Chronograph 1 (1972) and the Heuer Monaco “Dark Lord” (1974) are great examples of early blacked-out watches, and I adore both. That realization immediately changed my mindset about this new Mido watch. Sure, in 1961, black PVD was not yet a thing. Nevertheless, the context did bring both realities a bit closer together.

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 Skin Diver Watch in 2020, much to the delight of vintage enthusiasts. Fratello’s Tomas Rosputinsky has a vintage version, and he had a chance to compare it to the modern 2020 reissue. After spending time with the new version, he called it the most striking re-edition of that year.

Last year’s Decompression Worldtimer in black and orange

The successful black-dial reissue of the watch led to a white and light blue follow-up version in 2021. Then, last year, we saw the release of a blue Worldtimer version that combined multi-time functionality with the colorful Decompression Timer. It was part of a series of two Decompression “Worldtimer” GMTs, with the second model (above) featuring a black, bright yellow, orange, and red dial. I loved the latter model because the dial stood out so much thanks to its bright colors.

A black polished PVD case

Now Mido has released the next version of the Decompression Timer. Internally, it follows the 2020 reissue, but the full-black case and black mesh bracelet are the main differences, and they change the look significantly. The new stealthy look suits the watch rather well. As I said in the intro, it makes the colorful dial the absolute star of the show. Let’s look at some specs to get an idea. The watch still features the same 200m-water-resistant case with its 40.5mm diameter, 47mm lug-to-lug, and 13.4mm thickness.

This stainless steel case gets a polished black PVD treatment that contrasts nicely with the matte black bezel insert with white numerals and markings. The dial features a matte black base color, and the colorful decompression scale is executed in familiar bright hues (yellow, green, pink, and blue). The outer black part of the dial features polished applied hour markers filled with white Super-LumiNova.

On the inside of the decompression scale, you will find the 3, 6, 9, and 12 numerals also treated with white Super-LumiNova. Additionally, the center features the applied Mido logo, which matches the handset nicely. Finally, you will find a large date window at 3 o’clock with a black date disc with white printing. Overall, the design is busy, but as we know, the different elements are easy to read thanks to the colors and the hands.

Mix things up with the three different strap options

The stealthy new Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 comes fitted with a black PVD-treated polished Milanese mesh stainless steel bracelet. This bracelet features a sliding clasp with an engraved Mido logo, ensuring you’re always able to size the watch perfectly. But you also get two straps with the watch, and thanks to the quick-release pins, they are easy to swap. The first is a blue Tropic-style rubber strap that matches the blue color on the dial. The second is a black calfskin strap with stitching that matches the four colors of the decompression scale. It’s a nice and playful little detail that ensures the leather strap is not overly serious.

Inside the case, Mido equips the watch with its ETA C07.621-based Caliber 80. It’s a variation of the Swatch Group’s popular Powermatic 80 movements that power watches from several different brands. The automatic movement operates at 21,600vph, has 25 jewels, and offers 80 hours of power reserve. It hides behind the black screw-in case back, which features a polished starfish in relief, an engraved serial number, and each watch’s LE number out of the 1,961 pieces that Mido will produce.

Final thoughts on the black PVD Mido Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 Limited Edition

I like what Mido has done with this new black-coated edition of its Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961. Despite my initial reservations, I think it is a look that suits the watch well. And honestly, I am not the biggest fan of blacked-out watches. They often hide the elements that give them character. That’s not the case with the Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961. Combined with the black overall aesthetic, the characteristic colorful dial instantly draws the eye. It’s a great contrast that makes this a fun release.

If given the chance, though, I would probably wear the watch on the blue rubber strap. Not only does it provide an extra bit of color to break the stealthy looks, but I think it also makes the watch look better. In my opinion, that combination is the true winner of the three.

Mido will probably sell all 1,961 pieces of this limited edition fairly quickly. While it might not have the vintage appeal of its predecessors, it does fit the lineup rather nicely. That’s why I do not doubt that people who collect all the different variations and fans who love this black aesthetic will happily pay €1,620 for this modern take on the popular Mido classic. And for that money, you still get a great, funky dive watch that is at the heart of the Mido brand.

For more information, visit the official Mido website. Let us know in the comments section what your favorite of the four Ocean Star Decompression Timer models is.