When we find ourselves in the process of choosing a new watch, it’s not uncommon to narrow down our options to two final contenders. In this article, we will undertake a thorough comparison between the Longines HydroConquest and the Mido Ocean Star 200. By examining their common traits and, more significantly, emphasizing their unique attributes, our goal is to equip you with valuable insights that will aid in your decision-making process.
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Longines HydroConquest vs Mido Ocean Star 200 Comparison
Longines HydroConquest
Specs:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: L888
- Power Reserve: 72 hours
- Case Width: 43 mm
- Lug Distance: 21 mm
- Water Resistance: 300 m
- Retail Price: $1,775
Mido Ocean Star 200
Specs:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: Mido Caliber 80
- Power Reserve: 80 hours
- Case Width: 42.5 mm
- Lug Distance: 22 mm
- Water Resistance: 200 m
- Retail Price: Around $970
Dial
Longines HydroConquest
The sunray blue dial of the Longines HydroConquest offers a captivating depth to the watch’s appearance. The silver-tone secondary color harmonizes perfectly with the stainless steel case and bracelet. The hour indices feature round shapes, and the dial incorporates large Arabic numerals at the 6, 9, and 12 o’clock positions, drawing attention to these focal points. To maintain visual balance, the date window is positioned at 3 o’clock on the dial.
Notably, Longines has opted for a diamond hour hand design, reminiscent of the snowflake hour hand, which is a trademark feature of Tudor’s sports watches. Additionally, the pencil minute hand introduces intriguing angles, providing a counterbalance to the curved Arabic numerals. Connecting these elements is the lollipop second hand.
Mido Ocean Star 200
The Mido Ocean Star 200 boasts a distinct and solid dark blue dial color that initially presents a matte appearance. However, upon closer examination, subtle textures in a vertical direction become apparent, mimicking the brushed stainless steel look and feel. The rectangular hour indices ensure excellent visibility, with square shapes employed at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions and two squares at the 6 and 12 o’clock positions. The hour and minute hands exhibit similar designs, while the spear-shaped second hand, adorned with an orange tip, adds an exciting sense of dynamism to the watch. Positioned at the classic 3 o’clock location, the day and date windows serve as a noteworthy addition to the otherwise simplistic dial.
Bezel
Longines HydroConquest
The bezel of the Longines HydroConquest has no surprises. It features a unidirectional count-up ceramic bezel with an engraved 60-minute scale. The Arabic numerals on the bezel are slightly wider, ensuring better synchronization with the numbers on the dial.
Mido Ocean Star 200
The bezel design of the Mido Ocean Star closely resembles that of the Longines, with the main distinction lying in the minute markers. Rather than the usual placement of Arabic numerals at the 20, 30, 40, and 50-minute intervals, this model incorporates markings at the 15, 30, and 45-minute positions, creating a balanced appearance and enhancing the vertical and horizontal axis across the watch’s center.
Case
Longines HydroConquest
In terms of dimensions, the Longines HydroConquest is 43 mm wide, with a 21 mm lug width. A thinner case, measuring 11.9 mm, provides an elegant look as most sports watches have an average 12.5 mm thickness.
Mido Ocean Star 200
The Mido Ocean Star 200 boasts a width of 42.5 mm. However, with a lug-to-lug distance of 49 mm, which is a great dimension for smaller wrists. The lug width stands at 22 mm, and the watch’s thickness measures 11.8 mm, contributing to a slimmer profile, similar to the Longines.
Movement
Longines HydroConquest
The Longines HydroConquest is equipped with the L888 caliber, an automatic movement based on the ETA A31.L11. This 21-jewel movement offers a generous 72-hour power reserve and features a bi-directional winding direction.
Mido Ocean Star 200
The Mido Ocean Star 200 is equipped with the Caliber 80 automatic movement, which is based on the ETA C07.621. This 25-jewel movement delivers an impressive 80-hour power reserve.
Stainless Steel Bracelet
Longines HydroConquest
Completing the ensemble, the Longines HydroConquest features a stainless steel oyster bracelet. However, Longines takes it a step further by incorporating a combination of brushed and satin finishes. While an all-brushed stainless steel bracelet exudes a sporty vibe, Longines adds a touch of elegance with satin-finished center links.
Mido Ocean Star 200
The Mido Ocean Star 200 features a stainless steel oyster bracelet that exudes a timeless sporty aesthetic.
Summary
Overall, the Longines HydroConquest and the Mido Ocean Star 200 are very similar with a few small differences. The Mido is slightly smaller than the Longines, however, their case height is very similar.
The Longines movements provide an 80-hour power reserve, while the Mido has a 72-hour reserve, however the Mido has the day and date window located at the 3 o’clock position.
Both watches are excellent choices, and there’s no clear winner.
The biggest difference is the price, as the Mido is available at below $1,000, while the Longines is around $1,500.
Verdict: Longines HydroConquest vs Mido Ocean Star 200
Your personal preference is a huge factor, but we’re always transparent here at TWR, so here’s our personal verdict.
Choose the Longines HydroConquest if:
- Brand power and heritage are important factors.
- If you already have a more elegant watch you can wear for more formal occasions. The Longines HydroConquest definitely has a sporty appearance.
Choose the Mido Ocean Star 200 if:
- You like a cleaner, more elegant dial. The Mido Ocean Star 200’s appearance is understated, and can be dressed up really well.
- If budget is a deciding factor, the Mido Ocean Star 200 wins as it comes in below $1,000.
Longines HydroConquest
Specs:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: L888
- Power Reserve: 72 hours
- Case Width: 43 mm
- Lug Distance: 21 mm
- Water Resistance: 300 m
- Retail Price: $1,775
Mido Ocean Star 200
Specs:
- Movement: Automatic
- Caliber: Mido Caliber 80
- Power Reserve: 80 hours
- Case Width: 42.5 mm
- Lug Distance: 22 mm
- Water Resistance: 200 m
- Retail Price: Around $970
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