Mido launches the new Multifort TV Big date an accessible stylish timepiece.

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MIDO is celebrating 50 years of Multifort and is releasing a new version of its Multifort TV Big Date. Read all about this new reissue in this article.

Introduction

MIDO is a brand with a rich history and was founded in 1918. In the quartz crisis of the 70-80s, MIDO found itself in dire straits and became part of the Swatch group in 1985.

The Multifort TV Big Date we are taking a look at in this article, with its square shape, has a clear reference to their 1973 Multifort model where this shape was first proposed. So after 50 years, 2023 is the ideal time to release a reworked version of this model.

The timepiece

The Multifort TV Big Date refers, as included in its name, to the old picture tube TV of yesteryear. This shape is also found in manufacturers such as Tag Heuer with its Monaco model and Patek Philippe with its Aquanaut model. Some like it, others don’t, but everyone has their own opinion about taste and style.

The Big Date located at the 12 o’clock position of the movement is beautifully executed and reminds us of the date version of a Glashütte Original or A. Lange & Söhne timepiece. The adjustment of the date is not gradual as in other timepieces but immediately as the day changes. This is made possible by a system of 2 different discs, each being a part of the 2 date positions, which is normally only found in a timepiece that is a lot more expensive.

In terms of personalization, no shortage as the Multifort TV Big Date is available in 3 different colors (gray, blue and green) in terms of dial that start centrally and transition to black with a gradient to the outside. The dial also has tremendous depth. The horizontal lines give a nice sense of depth to the dial. With the exception of the 12 o’clock indication, each hour features a dot or dash with Super-LumiNova on the dial making the watch perfectly readable even in conditions with less or no light. Secretly, though, we had hoped that the date was also in Super-LumiNova. The edge of the dial also features the second indications at 3, 6, 9 and 12 o’clock.

In addition to the dial, 3 different watch bands are available. A steel version with wide H-shaped (with polished central links) links offers a distinctive 1970s-inspired integrated bracelet style. It has a hidden butterfly clasp with the Mido logo on it. The disadvantage of the butterfly clasp is that it does not allow for micro-adjustments, which can make a perfect fit difficult.

In addition to the steel version, blue and rubber watch straps are also available that give the watch a sporty, playful vibe and still allow you to give the same timepiece a different “look and feel” on different occasions. The rubber version of the watch strap has the same 3D pattern as the polished center link on the steel strap so that the same style is mimicked. All watch straps are very easily and quickly interchangeable due to the spring pins with quick release.

Turning the watch over, we see a transparent bottom showing the automatic MIDO Caliber 80. This movement is based on the ETA C07.651 better known as the Powermatic 80 movement of the Swatch group. This movement has a power reserve of 80 hours and does its work at 21,600 vibrations per hour. In addition, it is equipped with the revolutionary Nivachron™ balance spring. This new titanium-based metal alloy guarantees precision and reduces the effect of magnetic fields while offering great resistance to shock and the effects of time.

Specifications

CASE
39.20mm diameter, 11.5mm height , 100m (10 ATM) water resistant. Anti-reflective sapphire crystal.

MOVEMENT
Automatic Mido Caliber 80 (base ETA C07.651) with 80 hours of power reserve, Frequency: 21’600 vibrations per hour

Functions : Hours, minutes, seconds. Large date display at 12 o’clock.

PRICE
1140 euros on a steel bracelet and 1110 euros on a rubber strap.

REFERENCE
M049.526.11.041.00

Conclusion

A timepiece with this level of finish and with a very reliable workhorse movement for a price of around 1000 euros is rather unseen. Add to that the numerous possibilities of personalization and I think we can strongly recommend it as a stylish daily timepiece for every occasion.

Click here for more info or to purchase this timepiece.