The Retro Revival: Unveiling the Mido Multifort TV Chronograph
In the ever-evolving world of watch design, trends often come full circle. Just like fashion, what was once considered outdated can suddenly become the height of cool. Take, for instance, the resurgence of two-tone watches, a staple of the 80s and 90s, now making a bold comeback in the 2020s. And this brings us to an intriguing design element from the past: the TV dial.
While the 60s and 70s are renowned for their iconic watch designs, the TV dial, with its unique aesthetic reminiscent of the Space Race era, has long been overlooked. However, it seems that modern watch enthusiasts have developed a penchant for the quirky and eccentric, embracing the stone dials, faceted crystals, and the distinctive 'squircle' cases of TV dial watches.
Enter the Mido Multifort TV, originally launched in 1973 and reintroduced in 2023 with the Multifort TV Big Date. This collection has become a global bestseller for Mido, offering a generous helping of 70s vibes at an incredibly reasonable price point. The latest addition, the Multifort TV Chronograph, brings the first major mechanical complication to the range, and I had the pleasure of wearing it for an extended period, both in Sydney and during a trip to Bangkok with the brand.
Tuning into the Multifort TV Chronograph
The Mido Multifort TV Chronograph makes a bold statement on the wrist. While its dimensions - 42mm in diameter and 14.3mm thick - may not seem excessive on paper, the wide dial aperture and integrated bracelet design (though not a true integrated bracelet) give it a commanding presence. It's like having a big-screen TV on your wrist.
Powering this timepiece is the Mido Calibre 60, based on the ETA A05.H31 movement, an evolution of the renowned Valjoux 7750. I'd classify it as an above-average mechanical chronograph movement, offering an improved power reserve of 60 hours, a Nivachron balance spring, and a beat rate of 4 Hz. One unique feature is the pusher on the left side of the case, which advances the date window. This handy addition allows you to quickly set the date, especially if the watch hasn't been worn for a while, without putting excessive strain on the crown and winding stem.
The collection offers three distinct models: the blue-dial version with white highlights that I reviewed, a grey-dial model with orangey-yellow and white accents, and a black PVD-coated model with a grey dial and tan highlights. Of these, the blue model stands out for its versatility (or perhaps its more subtle 70s aesthetic), which is why it appeals to me the most.
Chronograph in the Spotlight
I must admit, I'm not usually a big fan of chronographs, and I can't pinpoint a good reason for this. As a motorsports enthusiast, I should be drawn to this complication, but it's never quite resonated with me. This Mido review, in fact, marked the longest period I've ever worn a mechanical chronograph. While my first 'nice' watch was a quartz Certina DS Podium, which I wore frequently, it doesn't get as much wrist time these days.
Similarly, I'm not a huge advocate of TV dial watches, despite my appreciation for the quirky and eccentric 70s style. However, I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Multifort TV Chronograph, especially during my travels to Thailand. I found the chronograph function handy for tracking flight durations and timing boarding procedures (Thai Airways, in my experience, is quite efficient). But more than that, I connected with the overall vibe of the watch.
The Multifort TV Chronograph is not a subtle timepiece, but that's not its intention. It's a stylish statement piece, yet it's not overly flashy. It's sporty, yet easily dressable. The blue fumé dial, with its subtle horizontal striations and recessed lume plots, gives it a unique look, as do the squircle-shaped subdials that mirror the case design. The bezel, with its single lumed pip at 12 o'clock, and the mix of finishes on the case and bracelet, add to its appeal.
On the wrist, it feels slightly top-heavy, but it's quite comfortable. While the additional textile strap does reduce the weight significantly, the bracelet is simply too good to pass up, in my opinion. It balances the weight of the watch and looks and feels superb, with the polished center links creating a beautiful play of light.
Final Thoughts
Let's be honest, one of the Mido Multifort TV's biggest selling points is its resemblance to the Patek Philippe Nautilus, but at a fraction of the price and without the waitlist. Nautilus chronographs are particularly rare, especially in steel, and while few collectors would seriously compare Mido and Patek, the Multifort TV Chronograph offers a similar aesthetic experience. In this sense, it's the ideal travel watch - which is precisely how I reviewed it.
It exudes a premium feel, similar to watches at a much higher price point, yet it's distinct enough to make a statement of its own. It's a watch that will turn heads, whether for positive or negative attention, when you're exploring unfamiliar territories.
My main gripe with the watch isn't actually a functional issue. It's the double-quick-release spring bars used on the bracelet. When switching between the bracelet and the strap, I found the spring bars incredibly stiff and difficult to operate. And when it came to putting the bracelet back on, it was a hassle, as the spring bar, which floats within the first link of the bracelet, kept moving sideways. Other brands, like Christopher Ward, have addressed this by affixing the spring bar with a screw to prevent sideways movement. Mido should consider a similar solution or integrate a proper quick-release system into its Multifort bracelets. However, this is only a concern if you frequently change strap options.
Pricing and Availability
The Mido Multifort TV Chronograph in blue is available now from the Time+Tide Shop, complete with a bracelet and an additional textile strap. The price is A$3,975.
Specifications
- Brand: Mido
- Model: Multifort TV Chronograph
- Reference Number: M049.527.11.041.00 (blue dial, as tested)
- Case Dimensions: 42mm (D) x 14.3mm (T)
- Case Material: Stainless steel
- Weight: 208 g
- Water Resistance: 100 metres, screw-down crown
- Crystal(s): Sapphire front and back
- Dial: Blue fumé
- Lug Width: 23mm
- Strap: Three-link steel bracelet with butterfly clasp
- Additional blue textile strap with stainless steel pin buckle
- Movement: Mido Calibre 60, ETA A05.H31 base, automatic
- Power Reserve: 60 hours
- Functions: Hours, minutes, small seconds, date, chronograph
- Availability: Available now from the Time+Tide Shop
- Price: A$3,975
