Mido makes Swiss automatic watches at prices well below the big names, and many of them are certified chronometers. It is a favourite of buyers who want a real Swiss mechanical watch without a luxury price. We have 283 Mido watches in stock, from $265 to $1,780, with a median of $790.
A short history
Mido was founded in 1918 by Georges Schaeren; the name comes from the Spanish "yo mido", "I measure". In the 1930s it launched the Multifort, presented as an automatic, antimagnetic and water-resistant watch at a time when few watches were all three, with a cork-sealed crown system called Aquadura. The Ocean Star followed in 1944 and the Commander in 1959. Mido is based in Le Locle and is part of the Swatch Group.
The collections
Ocean Star. Mido's dive watches, from the classic 200 m diver to the Ocean Star Tribute and GMT models. In stock: 55, from $610.
Multifort. Sporty everyday watches, with vertical brushing on many dials, including chronographs and GMTs. In stock: 67, from $565.
Commander. The 1959 design with a monobloc case and Milanese or steel bracelets. In stock: 51.
Baroncelli. Mido's dress watches: slim, round and classic, often on leather. In stock: 87, from $475.
Belluna and Rainflower. Mostly ladies' and mid-size models. In stock: 10 Belluna and 7 Rainflower.
The Caliber 80
Many current Midos use the Caliber 80, an automatic movement with about 80 hours of power reserve: you can take the watch off on Friday evening and it is still running on Monday morning. Some versions are COSC-certified chronometers; see chronometer certification explained.
What Mido costs
Our Mido prices run from $265 to $1,780. New pieces start at $475 and pre-owned at $265. That puts Mido alongside Tissot and Hamilton as one of the most affordable ways to own a Swiss automatic.
What to check before you buy
- Quartz or automatic. Most Midos are automatic; the listing states the movement.
- Bracelet size. Ask how many spare links come with a steel bracelet.
- Water resistance. For an Ocean Star you plan to swim with, ask about the last pressure test; see water resistance explained.
- Our pre-owned checklist covers the rest.
Mido or another affordable Swiss watch?
Mido, Tissot and Hamilton share the Swatch Group's movements. Compare them in best luxury watches under $1,000 and our Tissot PRX guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Mido a good watch brand?
Yes. Mido is a Swiss brand founded in 1918 and part of the Swatch Group, known for automatic movements with long power reserves at affordable prices.
What does Mido mean?
It comes from the Spanish "yo mido", meaning "I measure".
How long is the Mido Caliber 80 power reserve?
About 80 hours, which is why it is called the Caliber 80.
How much is a Mido watch?
Our Mido watches start at $265; the median in our stock is $790.
