A watch is more than a timepiece. A watch is an expression of your personal style, an accessory that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any look, and a piece that can be passed down through generations.
It's no wonder, then, why so many people are drawn to the timeless designs of Mido watches—a Swiss watch brand that has been creating classic timepieces of exceptional quality since 1918.
Mido watches are known for their distinctive design and innovative features, but they also offer an unparalleled value proposition. The brand's dedication to quality shows in every detail—from their timeless designs to their uncompromising standards when it comes to precision and performance.
In this guide, we'll take you through the history of Mido watches, explain why they are famous for certain features, and show you what our favorite models from their collection are!
The History of Mido Watches
Mido has been making Swiss-made timepieces since 1918, when it was founded by George G. Schaeren. The name comes from the Spanish phrase "Yo Mido", meaning "I Measure", and it's no wonder that this brand has become synonymous with precision and quality since its inception.
Mido watches are known for their elegant design, as well as their innovative features. In the early years of its existence, the company made a name for itself in part by producing watches with enameled cases of various colors predominantly for women. Mido also created watches in a streamlined, art deco style for men.
Some time later, Mido also began producing watches in the style of notable automobile radiator grills, and later expanded this concept to include other brands such as Bugatti and Fiat.
The year 1934 was a major breakthrough for Mido. It introduced the Multifort—a watch with a self-winding automatic movement, the first of its kind. It also defied the qualities expected of an ordinary wristwatch: it was anti-magnetic, shock-resistant and water-resistant. For this reason, its popularity has endured among consumers even into the 21st century.
That same year, Mido revolutionized the watchmaking industry with its introduction of "unbreakable mainsprings", which was another first in the industry. Mido also released the first central-read chronograph in 1945. This was an innovation that allowed all the hands of the stopwatch function to be arranged at the center of the watch face, making it easier for the wearer like pilots and car race drivers to time events.
The decades that followed saw Mido transforming with successive cutting-edge technology, redefining the industry even more. These include a new winding mechanism in 1954, a one-piece watch case design called the “Commander” in 1959, and the thinnest ladies' watch in 1967. Moreover, in 1970, Mido released their Aquadura Crown Sealing system—which uses natural cork to make a watch waterproof. In the 1990s, Mido released a unique watch called the World Timer which displays local time in some cities around the world.
Today, Mido is a global benchmark in Swiss-made mechanical watches - you can find them at 2,700 official retailers in 70 countries around the world! Mido is currently a part of the Swatch Group but it's headquartered in Le Locle, Switzerland and has an office in Shanghai, China.
Is Mido A Good Watch?
If you ask us, the short answer is yes!
Mido watches are Swiss-made and embody the fusion of innovation, aesthetics and functionality that is central to some legendary architecture —which means they make watches that are both beautiful and functional.
There are lots of things that make a watch stand out from the rest—and Mido has it all: cutting-edge technology, automatic movements renowned for their excellence, and high-quality materials are the three pillars on which Mido's unique expertise rests.
In addition to the fashion statement they make, Mido watches are known for their quality and durability. The company has also been making watches for over 100 years which means they have a long history of creating beautiful timepieces that stand the test of time.
Best Qualities of Mido Watches
When it comes to selecting a good-looking watch, a few factors are important to you. You want something elegant without being too simple. You want the edge of technology without going overboard. And finally, you want something that will last. Mido watches are the perfect blend of these qualities.
Well-thought Design
Mido Swiss-made watches are known for their quality and attention to detail, combined with a modern aesthetic. The results are not only aesthetically pleasing but also very well-made timepieces.
Although not all models are inspired by architecture, the brand’s watches often take their design cues from iconic buildings. The Multifort line is said to have been designed in part after Sydney Harbour Bridge and the All Dial collection takes its inspiration from Rome's Coliseum.
In addition to drawing inspiration from architecture, Mido has created many different model families over the years—including the more formal Baroncelli collection and the sportier Commander lineup, along with its flagship Ocean Star line.
Solid Performer
As a watchmaker with over 100 years of experience, Mido has become adept at creating timepieces that give solid performance.
For example, Mido's first truly modern watch, featuring shock resistance and water resistance as well as an unbreakable mainspring mechanism, came out in 1934 under the name Multi-Fort.
Decades later, Mido continues to produce watches that maintain their craftsmanship over time. Today, Mido offers several COSC-certified movements in its Multifort, Commander and Ocean Star ranges—all of them at very attractive prices.
If you're not yet familiar with COSC certification, it's an indication of exceptionally high quality—only the highest-grade watches can pass this test.
Innovative Technology
Mido has been at the forefront of innovation for many years. As discussed earlier, the company was able to introduce several "firsts" in the industry - and never stopped doing so.
Recently, Mido created a power reserve of up to 80 hours with the support of ETA, and thus became the first brand ever to make a silicon balance spring available for its COSC-certified timepieces without increasing the price significantly.
Long Lasting
The durability of Mido watches is thanks to their use of movements with a reliable Swiss-made ETA base, but it's also due in part to the company's efforts towards making its products genuinely durable. This focus on quality and long-lasting products is a hallmark of Mido, and you can see it in the brand's superb attention to details.
Quality for Price
Mido watches are a good value and offer a high quality watch for its price. With a Mido on your wrist, you’re not sacrificing quality for the price. The quality shines through in every aspect of the watch: from its sleek look, to its unrivaled movement, to its reliability for years to come. And if you're looking for something with a little more flair? You'll find that too!
3 Best Mido Watches To Consider
Finding the right watch at a price you’re comfortable with can be difficult. That's why we're looking at some of Mido's best pieces so that you can find something perfect for yourself!
Mido Multifort Power Reserve Men's Watch
From the 1930s to the 1950s, Mido's Multifort line was its best selling collection. Revived in 1998 as an automatic watchmaker once again became popular among consumers, Multifort continues to be one of Mido’s most recognizable collections today.
This Swiss-made timepiece features a 42 mm stainless steel case and is powered by a Swiss-made ETA Calibre 2897 movement (42-hour power reserve). It is water resistant to 100 m (330 feet) and has a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal case back with a silver stainless steel bracelet and deployment clasp style band.
Mido Baroncelli Power Reserve Men's Watch
The Baroncelli Power Reserve Men's Swiss watch is much more than a technical accessory. Its classic look is enhanced by its subtle power-reserve indicator, grained dials and polished Roman numerals—making it a timeless addition to any man's wardrobe.
This watch sports a 42 mm stainless steel case that is water resistant to 165 feet with a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal. The silver dial of this watch includes an exhibition case back, displaying the movement inside, and a date display at 3 o'clock. It also boasts a 42-hour power reserve from its Swiss-made mechanism, and a brown leather strap with deployment clasp.
Mido Commander II Men's Watch
Sleek and sophisticated, this Mido Commander II watch for men features elegant stainless steel cases with scratch-resistant sapphire crystal and water resistance of up to 165 feet.
Designed for the modern gentleman, this handsome automatic timepiece has a gorgeous black dial accentuated by silver-tone hands and markers, a stainless steel bracelet with deployment clasp, and date display at 3 o'clock. Produced in Switzerland and powered by a Swiss-made movement, this watch was engineered to perform optimally under pressure.
Final Thoughts
Mido makes an impression with the high quality of their timepieces, but that's not all. Their watches are also a great value proposition. From its extensive history, to their passion for quality; it's clear that this watch brand puts more than just the time of day at the forefront of its products.
