Mido's Sub-$2,000 Ocean Star Worldtimer is a '70s-Inspired Stunner
Published: 29 Jul 2025
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Mido has announced the Ocean Star Worldtimer , a new addition to the Maison's classic dive watch collection, priced at AUD$1,625 .
, a new addition to the Maison's classic dive watch collection, priced at . Inspired by '70s design, the timepiece features a silver-toned dial with 'velour' finish, enhanced by black and red chequering to mark the time intervals.
Inside, it is powered by the Calibre 80, an automatic movement with a power reserve of up to 80 hours.
The Mido Ocean Star Worldtimer is available to purchase online and in stores starting July 28, 2025.
If you have been on the hunt for a budget-friendly everyday watch, there's a good chance you have stumbled across Mido's Ocean Star Collection. The rough-and-ready range of dive watches has long been heralded as the ultimate in affordable wristwear, and for good reason.
Through its fusion of classic design details and modern functionality, the Ocean Star has birthed some of Mido's best-loved and most revered models, not the least of which was last year's stunning Ocean Star Decompression Worldtimer and yet remarkably, it remains one of the industry's best-kept secrets. The sub-$2,000 Mido Ocean Star Worldtimer Ref. M026.830.16.030.00 threatens to change all that.
Mido Ocean Star Worldtimer M026.830.16.030.00 | Image: Mido
The Swatch Group brand's newest take on the classic timepiece, Ref. M026.830.16.030.00 embodies a familiar level of intricacy and design; however, this time, the influences are decidedly more, shall we say, groovy? Replete with a vibrant red-and-black chequered dial, traditional glassbox-style sapphire crystal design and an unmistakable unidirectional rotating bezel, this iteration is every bit a '70s icon. Can you dig it?
Traditionally, World Time watches display the time in 24 zones simultaneously via a rotating ring on the dial. This ring has the names of each city fixed, allowing the wearer to see different time functionalities at a glance. The latest Ocean Star model sees Mido embody that philosophy in its purest form, courtesy of a rotating bezel adorned with 24 city names.
Mido Ocean Star Worldtimer M026.830.16.030.00 | Image: Mido
Refreshingly simple for the function, the timepiece does not house a synchronised 24-hour disc or automatic time zone shifting, instead favouring a more manual GMT process. While that might not be for everyone, it feels entirely fitting for the vintage-inspired design. Straightforward, uncomplicated and highly legible, this interaction of the Worldtimer perfectly bridges the gap between contemporary ingenuity and retro design.
Measuring 40.5mm in diameter, the latest stainless steel model is on the larger side for a vintage-inspired timepiece but still rests firmly in the sweet spot for daily wear. Throw in the glassbox-shaped sapphire crystal, screw-down crown and a screw-on case back decorated with the Ocean Star's signature starfish motif, and you've got a remarkable take on the vintage aesthetic fit for the modern day.
Mido Ocean Star Worldtimer M026.830.16.030.00 | Image: Mido
Inside, the Ocean Star Worldtimer M026.830.16.030.00 is powered by the automatic MIDO Calibre 80 movement, which is built on an ETA C07.621 base. Comprising 25 jewels and with a frequency of 21600 bph, the movement has a stellar 80-hour power reserve, which is more than handy for a sub-$2,000 timepiece. Importantly, the calibre 80 is also equipped with a Nivachron balance spring for improved anti-magnetic properties and, despite being concealed by the screw-on case back, is also decorated with Côtes de Genève and engraved with the MIDO logo.
Priced at AUD$1,625, the Mido Ocean Star Worldtimer M026.830.16.030.00 is available online and in boutiques now. The watch is paired with a 'Bund'-style black leather strap, in tribute to the pilots of days gone by, along with a sportier option that featurse a lining sewn with white thread.
Mido Ocean Star Worldtimer M026.830.16.030.00 | Image: Mido
Mido Ocean Star Worldtimer M026.830.16.030.00
Brand : Mido
: Mido Model : Ocean Star Worldtimer
: Ocean Star Worldtimer Reference : Ref. M026.830.16.030.0
: Ref. M026.830.16.030.0 Diameter : 40.5mm
: 40.5mm Thickness : 13.4mm
: 13.4mm Movement : Caliber 80 (ETA C07.621 base)
: Caliber 80 (ETA C07.621 base) Power Reserve : 80 hours
: 80 hours Water-Resistance : 200 metres
: 200 metres Price: AUD$1,625
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