The Cool And Accessible Mido Ocean Star 200C Blue

Finding an accessible automatic dive watch is like looking for a pearl in a gigantic pile of oyster shells. There are thousands of options, but not all are born equal. Finding an accessible AND greatly manufactured automatic dive watch can require a bit of research. Look no further, as Mido has launched a new version of its classic diving watch, the Ocean Star 200C, now in a full-blue attire. Solid, fully equipped, made by one of the largest watch groups and fairly priced, it has much to offer.

The name says it all. Ocean Star 200C Blue. Ocean Star refers to the diving collection of the brand, which gathers pretty cool models, ranging from vintage-oriented to funky-coloured limited editions or serious professional models. 200 refers to the watch’s water-resistance. And finally, the C in the name is about the material of the bezel, you’ve guessed it, ceramic. The watch is all about being a classic yet well-equipped diving instrument, but also a hassle-free daily beater. It’s not the most capable dive watch of the brand, but it remains one of the most straightforward options too. Classic, contemporary-styled.

This year, following a rather interesting titanium edition in 2022, Mido takes the seafaring and sporty DNA of its diving collection even further with its new Ocean Star 200C Blue. The ocean-coloured rubber strap matches the bright blue dial and high-tech ceramic ring on the rotating bezel. A great watch for summer, objectively. The 42.5mm stainless steel case is mostly satin-finished, with contrasting polished accents – see the nice polished bevels on the sides of the lugs – to elevate the design even more. The crown screws down and is protected by thin guards, the caseback shows the brand’s starfish logo, the dial is protected by a sapphire crystal with AR coating… All you need and more.

New to this edition is the ceramic insert in blue, inserted inside the unidirectional rotating bezel. It thus matches the new matte blue dial, with a nice (modernized) wave pattern in relief. A day-date model, it features applied markers and hands filled with luminous material and overall feels nicely executed with cool details. But nothing too distracting or fancy. The blue colour scheme continues on the rubber strap, which is closed by a folding clasp with a diving extension.

Inside the case is Swatch Group’s superior Powermatic movement (a.k.a ETA C07.621 or Mido Calibre 80). This evolution of the ubiquitous 2824 now features an antimagnetic Nivachron hairspring, with a regulating organ beating at 3Hz. That slower frequency and the work done on the kinetic chain allow for a solid 80-hour power reserve.

Now available and part of the permanent collection, the Mido Ocean Star 200C Blue (ref. M042.430.17.041.00) is priced at a fair price, considering the content the brand offers – EUR 1,060 or USD 1,140. For more details, please visit www.midowatches.com.