The New MIDO Multifort TV Big Date in Grey Gradient

by Brent Robillard

A Flashback with Edge

There are certain watches that manage to capture a moment, not just in the current market but across generations. The MIDO Multifort TV Big Date is one of those watches. Since its initial release, the collection has defied expectations, quickly becoming one of the brand’s best sellers and helping to re-establish MIDO as a leader in accessible Swiss design with substance. In its most recent iteration—ref. M049.526.17.081.01—the Multifort TV returns with a fresh new dial and a confident aesthetic that leans into its vintage roots while staying unapologetically modern.

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Key Features of the MIDO Multifort TV Big Date

The Case for Retro Revival

The first thing you notice, of course, is the shape. That TV-style rectangular case is a direct homage to MIDO’s 1970s archives, a bold design era that’s now being rediscovered by a new generation of collectors. Measuring 40mm wide and 39.2mm long, the case has a solid wrist presence but wears surprisingly compact thanks to its curved edges, 11.5mm thickness, and the soft flex of the textile strap. The stainless steel body features a sapphire crystal with double-sided anti-reflective coating, while the see-through caseback and screw-down crown offer added utility and polish.

That Dial Though…

Where this model truly distinguishes itself is in the grey gradient dial, which moves from a smoky ash tone at the centre to near-black at the edges. It’s a colourway that feels both minimalist and dramatic, amplified by the horizontal brushed finish that plays with the light in a way photos simply can’t capture. The result is a visual tension between retro form and contemporary execution—especially when juxtaposed with the BIG DATE complication at 12 o’clock. That oversized calendar window might seem like a subtle detail, but in practice it becomes the visual and functional anchor of the watch, offering clarity without clutter.

Power in Reserve

Under the hood, MIDO once again proves that affordability doesn’t have to mean compromise. The Calibre 80 automatic movement—based on the ETA C07.651—is a proven powerhouse, offering an 80-hour power reserve and rock-solid accuracy. In this newest version, the movement includes a Nivachron™ balance spring, a high-tech component that’s not only resistant to magnetic fields but also impervious to everyday shocks. It’s the kind of upgrade you’d expect from a watch costing significantly more.

Strap In

Completing the package is a black textile strap with a soft synthetic backing for comfort. It’s matched with a pin buckle, keeping the watch light at just 94 grams. The 22mm lug width also means you can easily swap it out with a NATO or rubber strap for added versatility, but the stock option does a great job of balancing rugged sportiness with everyday wearability.

Specs

Case	316L Stainless Steel 40mm Diameter 39.2mm Lug to Lug 22mm Lug width 11.5mm Thick Screw Down Case Back 100m Water Resistance
Dial & Crystal	Sapphire Crystal Grey Gradient Dial Baton Handset Handset Recessed Indices Big Date @ 12 Super-LumiNova
Movement	MIDO Calibre 80 Big Date 25 Jewels 21 800bph 80-Hour Power Reserve
Strap	Fabric Hybrid Strap

MIDO Multifort TV Big Date

Final Thoughts: A Red-Hot Classic, Reignited

MIDO is on a roll, and the Multifort TV Big Date in this new grey gradient dial might just be its most confident release to date. It plays the nostalgia card, yes—but it does so with an eye toward technical excellence and forward-thinking design. If you’ve been considering a Swiss automatic that stands out from the usual round-case crowd, this just might be the perfect square peg.

Pricing & Availability

The MIDO Multifort TV Big Date retails for $1260 USD ($1520 CAD). For more info, change the channel and head over to the brand website.

About the author

Brent Robillard is a writer, educator, craftsman, and watch enthusiast. He is the author of four novels. You can follow him on Instagram.

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