The resurgence of the 1970s aesthetic in contemporary watchmaking has moved beyond a mere passing trend, cementing itself as a dominant design language that resonates with collectors who appreciate the bold geometry of the past. Within this retro-revivalist landscape, few case shapes are as evocative as the "TV screen" silhouette, a rectangular form with softened corners that mimics the cathode-ray tube televisions of the mid-20th century. Mido has capitalized on this nostalgia with remarkable efficacy through its Multifort TV Big Date collection, and the latest iteration takes this concept to its logical, flamboyant conclusion. The new Multifort TV Big Date PVD Yellow Gold is an unapologetic homage to the era of disco and velvet, draped entirely in a yellow gold-colored PVD coating that transforms the watch from a sporty daily wearer into a statement piece of significant visual weight.
Founded in 1918 by Georges Schaeren, Mido has a long history of architectural inspiration, often citing landmarks like the Sydney Harbour Bridge or the Eiffel Tower as muses for its various collections. However, the Multifort line, which dates back to the 1930s, has traditionally been the brand's vessel for robustness and reliability. The integration of the TV-shaped case into this line creates a fascinating juxtaposition between the utilitarian roots of the Multifort name and the stylistic excess associated with shaped watches of the 1970s. This new release does not shy away from that excess; instead, it leans into it heavily, offering a monochrome gold aesthetic that feels both ironically cool and genuinely luxurious, despite the accessible price point associated with PVD treatments rather than solid precious metals.
Courtesy of MIDO
The case dimensions are a critical aspect of how this timepiece wears, measuring 40mm in width and 39.2mm in length. On paper, these numbers might suggest a square, but the organic curves of the bezel and the integration of the lugs create a silhouette that flows more naturally on the wrist than a stark square would. The thickness of 11.5mm allows the watch to maintain a relatively slim profile, ensuring it can slide under a cuff, though its visual loudness might encourage the wearer to keep it exposed. The yellow gold-colored PVD coating is applied with a satin-brushed finish across most surfaces, particularly on the broad, flat bezel that frames the dial. This brushing is crucial as it tempers the brightness of the gold tone, preventing the watch from looking like a cheap novelty and instead giving it the warm, purposeful glow of a vintage heirloom.
A closer inspection of the case reveals the subtle interplay of light provided by the polished accents. While the dominant finish is satin, Mido has employed high-polish chamfers and details that catch the light and define the architectural lines of the case. The screw-down crown is protected by substantial crown guards that flow seamlessly from the case side, reinforcing the sporty capabilities of the watch. Despite its dressy gold appearance, the specifications remain thoroughly capable, boasting a water resistance of 100 meters (10 bar). This ensures that the watch is not merely a desk diver or a dress piece but a robust companion suitable for swimming and daily wear, maintaining the "Multifort" promise of durability.
The dial is arguably the most captivating component of this release, featuring a pronounced horizontal brushed finish that mimics the static or scan lines of an old television set. This texture adds significant depth and visual interest, preventing the large surface area of the dial from feeling flat or empty. The colorway is a striking gradient that transitions from a champagne gold in the center to a deep, inky black at the periphery. This "fumé" or gradient effect is another hallmark of 1970s watch design, and its execution here is seamless, drawing the eye toward the center of the dial where the hands and the date complication reside.
Courtesy of MIDO
At the 12 o'clock position sits the eponymous "Big Date" complication, a feature that Mido has integrated with impressive technical prowess. Unlike standard date windows that often feel like an afterthought or disrupt the symmetry of a dial, this large aperture commands attention and balances the visual weight of the dial. The mechanism uses two separate rotating discs to display the date, allowing for numerals that are nearly three times larger than those found in standard movements. This not only enhances legibility but also adds a layer of mechanical complexity that enthusiasts appreciate. The instantaneous jump of the date at midnight is a satisfying mechanical event, underscoring the precision of the underlying caliber.
The indices on the dial are a mix of circular and trapezoidal shapes, deeply recessed into the dial surface rather than applied on top. This "sandwich-style" or recessed application creates a sense of three-dimensionality, with the white Super-LumiNova filling offering a sharp contrast against the darkened edges of the gradient dial. The minute track is printed on the flange, keeping the main dial area clean and focused. The hands are diamond-cut and faceted, also treated with Super-LumiNova to ensure readability in low-light conditions. The gold tone of the hands matches the case perfectly, creating a cohesive monochromatic look that is only broken by the white of the lume and the date discs.
Turning the watch over reveals the exhibition caseback, which offers a view of the Mido Caliber 80. This movement is based on the ETA C07.651, a powerhouse engine that has become a staple in the Swatch Group's mid-range offerings. The "80" in the name refers to the impressive 80-hour power reserve, a significant upgrade over the standard 38-40 hours found in older movements. This extended autonomy means the wearer can take the watch off on a Friday evening and pick it up on Monday morning without needing to reset the time or date, a practical benefit for those who rotate through a collection.
One of the key technical features of the Caliber 80 is the inclusion of a Nivachron balance spring. Developed to address the increasing prevalence of magnetic fields in our daily lives—from smartphones to laptop speakers and handbag clasps—this titanium-based alloy significantly reduces the effect of magnetism on the movement's accuracy. It is also highly resistant to shocks and thermal variations, ensuring that the watch keeps excellent time even under less-than-ideal conditions. The movement is decorated with an industrial but pleasing finish, featuring Côtes de Genève stripes on the oscillating weight and the engraved Mido logo, a nice touch for a watch at this price point.
Courtesy of MIDO
The versatility of this package is enhanced by the inclusion of two distinct strap options. The primary option is a stainless steel bracelet with the same yellow gold-colored PVD coating as the case. It features a three-link design with polished center links and satin-brushed outer links, echoing the finishing of the case. The bracelet integrates perfectly into the lugs, creating a seamless flow of metal around the wrist. The folding clasp is equipped with push-buttons for security, and the overall construction feels solid and substantial.
For a more casual or sporty look, Mido also includes a textured black rubber strap. This strap features a pattern that complements the horizontal brushing of the dial and changes the character of the watch entirely. On the rubber strap, the gold case pops more dramatically, highlighting the shape and the gradient dial. The contrast between the luxurious gold tone and the utilitarian black rubber is a very modern aesthetic choice, bridging the gap between dress and sport. The inclusion of a quick-change system for the lug bars makes swapping between the bracelet and strap a tool-free operation, encouraging the owner to experiment with the watch's look.
The visual impact of the Mido Multifort TV Big Date in PVD Yellow Gold cannot be overstated. In an industry often dominated by safe, conservative designs in steel and black, this watch is a burst of personality. It channels the "integrated bracelet sports watch" craze but does so with a unique silhouette that sets it apart from the endless sea of octagonal bezel clones. The square shape with rounded corners is distinctively Mido, rooting the watch in the brand's specific history rather than merely copying a Genta design.
While the gold coating is a PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) treatment rather than solid gold, modern PVD technologies are incredibly durable. The coating is bonded to the stainless steel at a molecular level, resulting in a finish that is highly resistant to scratches and wear. This allows enthusiasts to enjoy the look and feel of a solid gold timepiece without the anxieties associated with softness or the prohibitive cost. The color tone Mido has achieved is particularly noteworthy; it avoids the overly brassy or fake yellow tones sometimes seen on cheaper gold-plated watches, instead offering a rich, deep hue that closely mimics 18k yellow gold.
Courtesy of MIDO
The sapphire crystal protecting the dial is treated with an anti-reflective coating on both sides. This is a crucial detail for a watch with a dark, gradient dial, as it minimizes glare and allows the wearer to appreciate the texture of the horizontal brushing and the depth of the recessed indices. The clarity of the crystal ensures that the "Big Date" remains legible from acute angles, further enhancing the functionality of the complication. The sand-blasted dot at the 12 o'clock position on the bezel is a subtle nod to diver watch markings, though here it serves primarily as a design anchor.
Mido's decision to utilize a screw-down crown on a shaped, somewhat dressy watch is a testament to their commitment to practical engineering. Many watches in this "sports-chic" category settle for 50 meters of water resistance and push-pull crowns, but the Multifort TV Big Date's 100-meter rating provides genuine peace of mind. Whether caught in a heavy downpour or taking a recreational swim, the watch is sealed against the elements, protecting the movement within.
The comfort of the watch on the wrist is aided by the relatively short lug-to-lug distance of 46.85mm. This dimension ensures that the watch does not overhang on smaller wrists, despite the substantial presence of the 40mm square case. The way the bracelet links articulate allows them to drape comfortably, and the weight of 155 grams (on the bracelet) provides a reassuring heft without being overly burdensome. It feels substantial, a quality that many collectors equate with luxury.
From a collector's perspective, the Multifort TV Big Date occupies an interesting niche. It offers the high-spec features usually reserved for more expensive utilitarian divers—80-hour power reserve, Nivachron spring, sapphire crystal, superior water resistance—packaged in a design that is pure stylistic expression. It proves that a watch does not have to be a boring tool watch to be technically proficient. The gold PVD version, in particular, challenges the wearer to be bold, to embrace a bit of flair, and to not take horology so seriously that they cannot enjoy a fun, vibrant design.
Courtesy of MIDO
The sheer readability of the Big Date complication is worth revisiting. In daily use, the utility of a date window that can be read at a glance without squinting is significant. By placing it at 12 o'clock, Mido maintains the vertical symmetry of the dial, a layout choice that is aesthetically pleasing and balanced. The white background of the date discs ties in with the white lume on the hands and indices, creating a coherent color palette that navigates the complexity of the gradient dial with ease.
In terms of pricing and availability, the Mido Multifort TV Big Date PVD Yellow Gold (Reference M049.526.33.021.00) is positioned competitively at $1,720.00. Considering the package includes both the PVD stainless steel bracelet and the additional rubber strap, along with the high-spec Caliber 80 movement, it represents a strong value proposition in the current market. The watch is available through Mido's network of authorized retailers and their online boutique. For those seeking a timepiece that combines the funk of the 1970s with the reliability of modern Swiss watchmaking, this golden television on the wrist offers a compelling channel to tune into.
Case: Stainless steel with yellow gold-coloured PVD coating; 40mm width x 39.2mm length x 11.5mm thickness; 46.85mm lug-to-lug; 22mm lug width; satin-finished and polished; sapphire crystal with double-sided anti-reflection treatment; screw-down crown; see-through case back; water resistant to 10 bar (100m).
Movement: Mido Automatic Caliber 80 (ETA C07.651 base); 28.80mm diameter; 5.86mm thickness; 25 jewels; 21,600 vph; Nivachron™ balance spring; 80-hour power reserve; Big Date complication; oscillating weight with Côtes de Genève and Mido logo.
Dial: Champagne to black gradient; pronounced horizontal brushed finish; recessed indexes with white Super-LumiNova®; big date aperture at 12 o'clock; diamond-cut and faceted hands with Super-LumiNova®.
Strap: Yellow gold-coloured PVD-coated stainless steel bracelet with polished center links and satin-finished outer links; folding clasp with push buttons; includes additional textured black rubber strap with PVD pin buckle; quick-change lug bar system.
Price: $1,720.00
Reference Number: M049.526.33.021.00
Notes: Features a "TV-shaped" case inspired by 1970s television sets; the Big Date complication uses two separate rotating discs for enhanced legibility; the movement features a high-tech Nivachron™ balance spring for magnetic resistance.