Mido Introduces The Limited Carbon Edition Of Its Versatile Ocean Star 200C
When I hear the name Mido, the first Ocean Star watches that come to mind are the vintage-inspired models. I like the Ocean Star Tribute, the Ocean Star Decompression Worldtimer, and the Ocean Star GMT. They all have an undeniable charm that is hard to ignore. But the brand also makes a series of modern Ocean Star divers that tick all the boxes for affordable and capable tool watches. The latest addition to these modern models is a limited-edition carbon fiber Ocean Star 200C. It takes the aesthetic of the Ocean Star to a different level. Additionally, the watch is powered by a COSC-certified version of the Powermatic 80 movement. It’s time to find out more.
When I first saw the images of the new Mido Ocean Star 200C, my first association was the black-dial Tissot Seastar Wilson WNBA model that came out two weeks ago. It’s an unfair comparison, though, as it is purely based on the orange accents of both watches. One closer look at this new Mido model immediately shows that it is a different beast. This Ocean Star 200C features a special dial and case made of carbon fiber composite, giving the watch a very modern look. If you love the distinct aesthetic of forged carbon, this might be the Mido for you.
Details of the Mido Ocean Star 200C
The new Ocean Star 200C has a 42.5mm × 49.04mm × 12.3mm case with a 22mm lug spacing and a 200m depth rating. This case is the same size as the regular stainless steel models, so the choice of carbon here does not affect the size or the water resistance. The material gives the modern case shape a nice look and feel. Contrasting the carbon nicely is a black PVD-treated steel bezel with a black ceramic insert bearing a 60-minute dive scale. The first 15 minutes are executed in bright orange, while the remaining markers and numerals are gray. Lastly, there is a white Super-LumiNova dot at the 60-minute mark.
The screw-down crown and screw-in case back are black PVD-treated stainless steel, and the latter features a relief-engraved starfish, symbolizing Mido’s expertise with water-resistant watches since the 1930s. As mentioned, the carbon fiber case is paired with a carbon fiber dial. The dial features applied indices filled with white Super-LumiNova and a day-date window at 3 o’clock. A remarkable choice is the placement of the “limited edition” text between the markers at 9, 10, and 11 o’clock. It’s not the first place I would think to put these words. The “limited edition” wording is also on the case back, so I am a bit puzzled as to why Mido put it on the dial.
A COSC-certified movement
Hovering above the dial are three hands that differ in appearance. The diamond-cut hour and minute hands have similar open-worked designs, but the minute hand is slimmer and executed in orange to match the orange color on the bezel insert. The lollipop seconds hand finishes the handset nicely, and all three hands have an application of white Super-LumiNova for great visibility in darker conditions.
Hidden behind the case back is a COSC-certified version of the Swatch Group Powermatic 80 movement. More specifically, this caliber is based on the ETA C07.821 and comes with a silicon balance spring indicated by a decorative “Si” logo on the balance bridge. Additionally, the movement features blued screws and an oscillating weight with Côtes de Genève and the Mido logo. The automatic caliber operates at a 21,600vph frequency and has a healthy 80-hour power reserve.
Finishing the look with two different straps
Those who buy the Ocean Star 200C Carbon will receive two straps. The first is black rubber with a quick-change system, a dive extension, and a black PVD-treated stainless steel folding clasp. The second strap mixes things up slightly for when you’d prefer a different look. It’s made of black synthetic fabric on a silicone base with orange stitching and a black PVD-treated stainless steel pin buckle with an engraved Mido logo. Like the first strap, the second strap is easy to switch thanks to the quick-release spring bars.
The main difference between the two in terms of looks is that the rubber strap has curved ends for a visually seamless fit. That said, the hybrid strap also looks good because it adds a touch of orange and has a nice texture. I love that Mido offers two black straps that are different in appearance. As a result, while the colors are the same, you can mix things up nicely.
Final thoughts on the carbon fiber Mido Ocean Star 200C
This new release ticks many boxes if you are into modern dive watches with a racing lean. The use of carbon fiber transforms the Ocean Star drastically. While I am not the biggest fan of carbon fiber for watches, I think Mido’s choice to use this material for both the case and the dial was a good one. It drastically turns the racing vibes up and gives the watch plenty of character.
The new Mido Ocean Star 200C will be produced in a limited run of 888 pieces for €2,450 / CHF 2,050 / US$2,200. It is a significant price increase compared to the €1,190 for the regular stainless steel version (or the €1,350 for the titanium version, for that matter). Having said that, what you get in return is a different, lightweight case material and a COSC-certified movement. The 888-piece limited edition is for sale now, and I am sure Mido will sell all the available pieces quickly. Plenty of watch fans will love the modern look of this Mido Ocean Star 200C Carbon. While I still favor the vintage-inspired Ocean Star models, this limited edition perfectly shows the great versatility of the Ocean Star line.
If you want to find out more, visit the official Mido website. In the comments section, let us know your thoughts on the new carbon fiber Mido Ocean Star 200C.
