Back in September 2024, we brought you word (seen here) of one of the more interesting dials that we’ve seen on the Mido Ocean Star lineup. For those unfamiliar, the Ocean Star line is where all of the dive watches live. Since that launch in the fall, we had a chance to spend some time with two versions of the ultra-wavey Mido Ocean Star 39.
Mido Ocean Star 39: all about that dial
Don’t get us wrong – the Mido Ocean Star line is a very solid way to get your hands on a Swiss-powered dive watch that looks good while being kind to your wallet. With the dials on the newest Mido Ocean Star 39, though, we don’t know why you’d look at anything else.
As you can see in our photos, they have some lovely gradient options (there are also a few solid options) that make the dial even more lively. While you might think a dive watch is trying to evoke ocean waves, the inspiration here are the rippling lines you’ll find in the dunes by the lake, or even in the desert. Whatever the source, it makes for a visually intriguing dial that catches the light in interesting way.
The movement
Of course, we know Mido is more than just a pretty face, and it helps that they have access to the ETA lineup of movements. Here, they’ve installed the Caliber 72 (aka the A31.111). This brings the patented anti-shock protections, as well as an extended power reserve (up to 72 hours). This reserve is accomplished by lowering the frequency of the movement to 3.5 Hz (25,200 vph). In terms of what that means for accuracy, we didn’t have any noticeable gains (or lags) in the time during our loaner period.
Wearing the Mido Ocean Star 39
For both versions of the Mido Ocean Star 39 that we had in, they came on the Mido three-link bracelet. This doesn’t conform to the wrist quite like a 5-link or jubilee, but it’s still plenty comfortable. Really, if you’ve worn any mainstream independent diver, you know how this fits and feels on the wrist.
Then again, that 39mm case also helps with fitment. It’s large enough that it looks like a big watch on the wrist, but small enough that it doesn’t overwhelm you during the day, and easily slips under the wrist. And, if you need a little extra breathing room throughout the day, you’ve got the built in extension in the clasp that can help you size up a little bit on the fly.
Wrapping things up
We like Mido watches, and there’s something about the iconic nature of a dive watch. Mido offers an affordable way to put a nice Swiss movement on your wrist. They’re also giving us designs that have iconic design cues, but put together in ways that make a Mido recognizable as it’s own thing.
If you want to pick one up, you’ve got just got to decide what color scheme you want. We’re rather partial to the gradient dials (on bracelet) that we reviewed, and those come in at $1,100. There is a black PVD version that’s a bit more, a cream dial at the same price, or a solid black dial (with the wave pattern) on a strap for $890. You can check out the full range directly at midowatches.com
Mido Ocean Star 39 Tech Specs
- Case
- Case shapeRound
- Case Material: Stainless steel
- Crystal: Sapphire crystal with double sided anti-reflection treatment
- Case options: Screw-down crown
- Case length (mm): 39.00
- Width (mm): 39.00
- Average Thickness (mm): 10.5
- Lugs width (mm): 20.00
- Movement
- Mido Automatic ETA caliber 72
- Functions: date
- Power Reserve: up to 72 hours
- Bracelet:
- Stainless steel
- Folding clasp with diving extension
- Weight: 149g
- Water Resistance: 20 bar (200m / 660ft)
