Ocean Star 200C Green Ref. M042.430.11.091.00

The Swiss have been highly regarded as the pinnacle of the watch industry with a rich history of producing watches of the highest quality standards. At the top of the food chain for luxury mechanical watches, it comes as no surprise that haute horlogerie watches command astronomical prices. However, not every Swiss timepiece has to break the bank. In particular, historic Swiss watch manufacturer Mido prides themselves to produce exceptional Swiss-made watches at a surprisingly affordable price point.

Mido Ocean Star 200C Green Ref. M042.430.11.091.00

For over more than 100 years, Mido has stood for watches that combined innovation, aesthetics and functionality since its beginnings. Founded by experienced watchmaker Georges Schaeren in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland back in 1918, the name “Mido” was derived from the Spanish phrase “Yo Mido”, meaning “I measure”. Today, Mido is based in the town of Le Locle, in the heart of the beautiful Swiss Jura Mountains. With the rise of scuba diving, Mido has invented numerous cutting-edge technological innovations such as the revolutionary single-shell case and their pioneering cork-crown “Aquadura” Crown Sealing system that became the foundation for their modern day dive watches.

The Mido Ocean Star is a collection of robust diving watches intended to serve as a reliable companion to those who want to conquer the ocean. While many of us would probably rock a dive watch for “desk diving” at the office instead of the ocean, Mido launched their latest iteration of the Ocean Star that combines functionality and an exceptionally appealing modern design inspired by architecture, looking as captivating on land as it would underwater.

Calibre 80 – Based on the ETA C07.621

As a sturdy diver, the Mido Ocean Star 200C Green Ref. M042.430.11.091.00 bears a solidly-built 316L stainless steel case construction, boasting superb durability and corrosion resistance that will stand the test of time. Naturally, dimensions play an essential role to find the right fit for the wrist of the modern gentleman. Mido hits the dimensions right out the park with a case diameter of 42.5mm, a lug to lug distance of 48.5mm, a tasteful size that many will definitely enjoy. Together with its sleek case profile of 12.5mm, this is a proportionate piece that exhibits timeless elegance with just the right amount of wrist presence.

The Ocean Star 200C Green Ref. M042.430.11.091.00 has a well executed finish all around with immaculate satin brushing on the top of the lugs, as well as on the side of the case. Finishing is rather simple, however it is done to the highest possible standards with attention to the finer details. A cleanly polished bevelled edge on the lugs completes the case with a smooth and refined appearance. The mix of brushed and polished surfaces is coherently carried down to the impressive 22mm stainless steel bracelet with a high polish centre link and brushed outer links, secured firmly on the wrist with a push button deployant clasp.

Intricate ripple patterns reminiscent of marine depths

This time around, Mido stepped up their game to introduce a feature highly desirable by dive watch fans - the ceramic bezel. The Ocean Star 200C Green Ref. M042.430.11.091.00 brings a handsome verdant green ceramic dive bezel that looks incredibly lavish with its high gloss finish and prominently engraved numeral markers. The bezel action feels smooth like butter while clicking confidently in place.

Diving into the dial, the Ocean Star 200C Green Ref. M042.430.11.091.00 demonstrates artisanal craftsmanship with intricate ripple patterns reminiscent of marine depths, adding another layer of dimension to the charming green dial. The applied indices and hands are treated generously with white Super-Luminova that glows like a torch in dark lighting conditions. Above that, the dial is protected with a piece of scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with double sided anti-reflective coating, keeping the dial crystal clear for your enjoyment.

SuperLuminova for Superb Glow In Dark

At the core of the Ocean Star 200C Green Ref. M042.430.11.091.00 lies the Mido Caliber 80 automatic movement, a modified 25 jewel ETA C07.621 day/date movement. The movement's main highlights include the boosted 80-hour power reserve achieved by lowering the 4 Hz beat rate of 28,800 beats per hour to 3 Hz (21,600 beats per hour). The lowered beat rate also translates to a more robust movement due to the lesser friction produced between the parts over time. With the screw-in case back and a screw down crown at the 3 o’clock position, this piece is equipped with a capable water resistance of 200m (660 ft), ready for some underwater adventures.

Mido has grown leaps and bounds over the past century, upholding their spirit of producing reliable Swiss timepieces while giving their watches a facelift to match the needs of the 21st century. The Ocean Star 200C Green Ref. M042.430.11.091.00 exhibits outstanding price-performance ratio with the introduction of a high quality ceramic bezel and an attractive dial design. Overall, the right mix of great proportions, a dependable Swiss automatic movement and Mido’s watchmaking expertise of over 100 years has proven to be a compelling formula for a watch worthy to be named a diving masterpiece.