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Joël Pynson
August 2025
- SuperDatomatic, ref. 224
SuperDatomatic ref. 224
It was around 1960 that Mortima began using the term SuperDatomatic on its dials. This was not actually a model name, but rather a generic term for watches with a date display. The Datomatic system allowed the date to be corrected by moving the hands back and forth between 9 p.m. and midnight, rather than a double 24-hour rotation. Reference 224 was one of the first to bear this name.
- Ref. 272
This model dates from 1961 and may be marked SuperDatomatic.
- Ref. 27 325 et 274
Two classic models from 1964.
- Skin Diver, ref. 338
The first Mortima diving watch dates back to 1965. It is reference 338 and is water-resistant to 60 meters.
- Extra Plate, ref. 759
From 1966 onwards, Mortima used the new Cattin 66 caliber, which was flatter than its predecessors, earning this model with its sleek dial the relative designation of Extra-Plate.
- Zorba Starmaster
This model does not bear the Mortima brand name but rather Zorba. Launched in 1966, it is heavily inspired by Swiss watches with thin bezels such as the Mido Ocean Star. The name Starmaster can be found on other Mortima models.
- Light Electric Super 608
This remarkable model, released in 1968, features a thermometer and a small lamp that can be switched on in the center of the dial. It was modernized in 1970 under reference number 639.002, then again in 1973 under reference number 639.153, but without the thermometer.
- 1968 models
Several interesting models were launched in 1968, in particular the Mustang model with its integrated bracelet, and the 2200 DW model, Mortima's first model with day and date display.
- Diving models, 1968
It was also in 1968 that Mortima launched several diving models for men and women. These models could have a diving bezel or GMT bezel. Of particular note are the following models:
Thermo, ref. 338 with thermometer in the center
Ref. 4208, precursor to the famous model 169-219
Flipper model, rotating bezel under the glass and second external rotating GMT bezel
- Commandant de Bord
This model, water-resistant to 50 meters, launched in 1970, features a rotating bezel above the glass and a second external rotating bezel for diving or GMT.
- Mayerling
From 1970 onwards, several models were given the generic name Mayerling. This was also the year when Mortima began using a wide range of colors for its dials.
Two models, ref. 169.215 and 169.216, appear to be heavily inspired by Rado's Captain Cook II and Manhattan models.
- Ref. 169-219
This is Mortima's most iconic diving watch model. Compared to the 4208 model from 1968, the case is slightly larger, and there are no longer any numbers on the dial.
Hundreds of thousands of these watches were manufactured over several years, and today it remains a model that is suitable for all occasions, particularly thanks to its many different colored dials. Here too, there is a choice of diving or GMT bezel.
- Diving models, 1971
Four interesting new diving models were introduced in 1971:
Ref. 169.264, modernized version of the Commandant de Bord model ref. 169.217
Ref. 169.265, rotating diving bezel under glass and external bezel with tachymeter scale and travel time
Ref. 169.226, evolution of model 358 without numbers on the dial
Ref. 169.286, rotating bezels and colored dials
- GMT and diving models, 1973
Two new models were launched in 1973 with particularly massive cases, in keeping with the fashion of the time.
These are model ref. 169.303 with a 24-hour rotating bezel, and diving model ref. 169.290 with a tachymeter scale and rotating bezel under the glass.
- Mayerling, ref. 165.296
This surprising model, launched in 1974, features a thermometer and a compass.
- Ref. 139.208
This very elegant model, with its sleek dial, was launched in 1974.
- Ref. 139.333 et 169.339
Mortima began producing watches with gradient-colored dials in 1974, and two models from 1975 with a blue gradient are particularly successful.
- Ref. 169.329 and 639.195
Two other models from 1975, with blue gradient, for men and women, with imposing cases.
- Diving watches, 1979
These models are the last mechanical diving watches produced by Mortima before the company switched exclusively to quartz watches. All of these models were already in production, with the exception of ref. 169.365, which appears to have been launched in 1979.
Note regarding Mortima vintage watches
Notice to collectors: Mortima antique watches require some care.
The Roskopf movements are particularly robust and can still function perfectly today. Repairs are possible but should be discussed to see if another movement of the same type and compatibility can be found.
The cases are fragile. Only the back is made of steel*, so there is a risk of scratching if knocked and damage from moisture, particularly sweat. Always check carefully when purchasing and take good care of your watch: wipe it thoroughly with a soft cloth after wearing it.
The dials and hands are fairly resistant, but check the condition of the luminescent material, especially inside the hands.
A Mortima watch in good condition and worn with care can still serve you well for years to come!
* Rare versions with all-steel cases have been described, but it is difficult to know if these cases are original.
Notes:
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