In 1961 Mido released the Ocean Star Decompression Timer, a diver’s watch whose multicolored scale helped divers manage their ascent. More than six decades later, the Mido Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961 brings that rainbow dial back, this time in a glossy black PVD case and in a limited run of 1,961 pieces created for the Ocean Star’s 80th anniversary.

The dial is the star: a multicolored decompression table designed to be read with the countdown scale on the black aluminum bezel, which carries a luminous pip at zero. Super-LumiNova fills the central hour markers, the oblong outer markers and the hands, and the date disc is printed black so it disappears into the design. Over it sits a domed, box-shaped sapphire crystal in the spirit of the original’s plexiglass. The movement is Mido’s Caliber 80, based on the ETA C07.621, with an 80-hour power reserve, and the screw-down back bears the Ocean Star starfish in relief.

The black PVD treatment is applied over mirror-polished steel, so the case shines rather than looking matte. It arrives on a black PVD Milanese mesh bracelet with quick-release bars, and Mido includes two additional straps for easy changes of mood.

Mido Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961, Ref. M026.807.33.051.00

• Limited edition of 1,961 pieces
• 40.5mm stainless steel case with black PVD coating, 13.4mm high
• Multicolor decompression-table dial with date
• Unidirectional bezel, black aluminum insert with countdown scale
• Automatic Caliber 80, 21,600 vph, up to 80 hours of reserve
• Domed box sapphire crystal
• Water-resistant to 200m
• Black PVD Milanese mesh bracelet plus two extra straps

A collector’s nod to one of Mido’s most colorful dive watches, and a conversation starter on any wrist.