Drawing inspiration from vintage aesthetics rather than a specific historical reference, the Mido Ocean Star GMT Special Edition exudes a classic charm reminiscent of yesteryears. Embracing the trend of “flyer GMT” movements, which remains relatively uncommon in its price bracket, this latest release adds a refreshing option to the market. Let’s delve into the details of this compelling watch. 
While Mido trademarked the Oceanstar name as early as 1944, the inaugural fake watch bearing this designation didn’t surface until 1959. Since then, Ocean Star has symbolized robustness, capability, and water resistance. Among the Ocean Star collection, the special editions stand out, offering a blend of nostalgia and functionality. Notable examples include the milky-blue Ocean Star Tribute and the vibrant Decompression Worldtimer. However, the Oceanstar GMT Limited Edition, a collaboration with Hodinkee, arguably epitomized excellence with its brushed finish and tastefully designed dial.
The Mido Ocean Star GMT Special Edition continues this legacy of excellence. Encased in stainless steel, sans crown guards, it boasts dimensions of 40.5mm in width, 13.4mm in thickness, and 47mm lug to lug, ensuring a comfortable fit on the wrist. The combination of brushed and polished finishes lends a sophisticated touch to the case, complemented by a bidirectional 24-hour bezel with a dark blue aluminum insert. Safeguarding the dial is a domed sapphire crystal, enhancing both durability and aesthetics.
The replica watch is presented on an 11-row stainless steel bracelet, accompanied by a blue NATO-like textile strap, offering versatility in wearability. The dial, characterized by a brushed, silver-colored flange outlining the odd-numbered hours, features a glossy navy blue center adorned with shark-tooth-inspired applied indexes, luminescent Super-LumiNova, and polished diamond-cut hands. A red-painted GMT hand adds a pop of color, while subtle details such as the raised Mido signature at 12 o’clock and the red “GMT” text at 6 o’clock underscore the watch’s attention to detail. A functional date window at 3 o’clock completes the dial layout.
Beneath the surface, the Mido Ocean Star GMT Special Edition houses the Mido automatic Caliber 80, based on the ETA C07.661, offering a Powermatic 80 movement with an integrated GMT function. Operating at a frequency of 21,600vph, with 25 jewels and an antimagnetic Nivachron balance spring, it delivers reliable timekeeping with a power reserve of up to 80 hours. Notably, this caliber features a flyer GMT mechanism, enabling independent adjustment of the 12-hour hand while the movement continues running-a convenient feature for frequent travelers.
Priced at €1,440, the Mido Ocean Star GMT Special Edition presents a compelling value proposition, especially when compared to competitors’ offerings. With its well-executed dial layout, quality construction, and functional GMT complication, it promises to be a worthy companion for the modern explorer.
The Mido Ocean Star GMT Special Edition embodies the brand’s ethos of combining heritage-inspired design with contemporary innovation. As a celebration of the Ocean Star collection’s 80th anniversary, it pays homage to the brand’s rich history while embracing the demands of the present-day horological landscape.