September 6, 2011
Casio announced today that there is a new top-of-the-line Oceanus Manta coming at the end of October, 2011.
Subtle refinements, including the migration of the “smart access” control crown from the T1000 models, a re-jiggering of the motors and inclusion of automatic daylight savings adjustment, are the enhancements that mechanically distinguish this model from the former flagship model (the OCW-S1400). Cosmetically, the new model, available in a matte black face or white mother of pearl, are similar to what we’ve already seen – just a re-arrangement of the sub-dials and the deletion of the external IP bezel for an ever so slight simplification. Case size is 42mm wide and 11mm thick.
The Oceanus line is an elegant contender in the mid-price field. It’s most direct competition are Seiko and Citizen who, at this price range offer similar features and sophistication. If I were out today to buy a $2000+ watch to wear to a formal wedding event on a yacht, I’d be hard pressed to pick one over the other and would probably decide based on which one looked best with the tux I’d be renting.
As you would expect the new Oceanus features “tough” movement, “tough” solar battery recharging and atomic timekeeping. A two-hour chronograph accurate to 1/10 second, world time, ten bar water resistance, coated sapphire crystal and programmed calendar are included as well.
