Mido, one of the star names in the entry-level segment of the Swatch Group, takes its price/performance claim to the top with its brand new diver Ocean Star 200C Blue, which will mark the summer.
Continuing its activities under the umbrella of the Swatch Group, Mido has an important position in the mechanical Swiss watches market with its price/performance monster models. With its product range consisting of modern and classical-themed models, arguably the most successful models for entering into mechanical watchmaking, the brand has unfortunately not been officially represented in our country for a long time. Let's move on to the new model, wishing that the well-established brand, which shares the same fate as Certina, will take its place in the Turkish market shortly.
The new model, which is among the first options that come to mind for those looking for an affordable and quality diver's watch, comes with a modern case designed with a diameter of 42.50mm. The two-piece modular case is made of stainless steel. The front of the case features a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating. The diver-type bezel surrounding the crystal is accompanied by a blue bezel insert made of ceramic material (the source of the letter "C" in the model name). The dot in the triangle symbol is also phosphor-applied on the bezel insert showing 10-minute intervals. On the back of the case, a solid cover with a very nice starfish relief serves. The stylish case back, which includes information about the model, is fixed to the case with 5 miniature screws. Here, I would like to point out that I really like the case back design and that I like it very much for a diver's watch. I also see it as a good decision for Mido not to include a see-through case back on the model. Under normal circumstances, I think that miniature screws suit dressier models. However, since the 200M water resistance value is provided, I think we can ignore this. My only criticism of the case is about the crown guards. I am totally OK with the functionality, but I think they could have been done better in terms of design.
The new model comes with a blue dial, in keeping with the Blue in the model name. There are wave patterns engraved on the dial, which displays a stance befitting a sports watch with its matte surface form. Paddle-shaped hands complete the large dot-type hour markers. Thanks to the SLN phosphor-applied components, the dial promises clear and fast legibility even in the most difficult conditions. At the 3 o'clock position, there are displays for the day and date features. Frankly, I am against any extra feature that would disrupt the symmetry of the dial, especially in sports watches. When you add a pair of discs with black on white color scheme, I think that the function not only gets in the way of the form but also ruins the integrity of the design at some point.
Mido Caliber 80, an ETA C07.621 variant, beats inside the model. The automatic caliber belonging to the Powermatic movement family, which we are now seeing frequently in Swatch Group brands, redefines the standards not only in its class but also in higher segments with its 80-hour power reserve time when fully wound.
Mido Ocean Star 200C Blue is available with a stylish rubber strap, prepared in a blue tone compatible with the concept. The strap, which underlines the sporty stance of the model with its vertical grooves on it, is accompanied by a Mido-signed folding clasp, which also includes a diver extension link.
The new model added to the standard (non-limited) collection takes its place among the best alternatives in its class with its CFH 1.030 unit price.
