Mido is a Swiss watch manufacturer with a history spanning over a century, currently operating as a key brand within the Swatch Group. The company was founded on November 11, 1918—the day of the Armistice ending World War I—by Georges Schaeren and Hugo Jubert. Established in Solothurn, Switzerland, the brand later moved its headquarters to Biel/Bienne and is now based in Le Locle. The name Mido is derived from the Spanish phrase “Yo mido,” which translates to “I measure,” reflecting the brand’s core focus on horological precision.
The brand has built a reputation based on the philosophy of combining functional innovation with timeless design. One of the primary reasons enthusiasts are drawn to Mido is its long-standing commitment to durability and water resistance. In the 1930s, the company pioneered the Aquadura cork-crown sealing system, a significant technical advancement that allowed watches to remain water-resistant even when the crown was pulled out. This focus on “no-frills” robustness, paired with an aesthetic often inspired by iconic architectural landmarks like the Colosseum or the Eiffel Tower, positions the brand as a provider of high-quality mechanical timepieces at an accessible mid-range price point.
Mido’s catalog is defined by several historically significant collections that remain central to its identity today. The Multifort, launched in 1934, was a milestone for the industry as one of the first watches to combine automatic winding, antimagnetic properties, and impact and water resistance. It remained the brand’s best-selling line for decades. The Commander collection, introduced in 1959, is recognized for its distinctive monocoque case design and has remained in continuous production since its inception, making it a staple of Swiss watchmaking.
For maritime and sport enthusiasts, the Ocean Star serves as the brand’s primary divers’ series. First released in 1959, modern iterations of the Ocean Star often feature specialized specifications such as helium valves, ceramic bezels, and water resistance up to 600 meters. Additionally, the Baroncelli line represents the brand’s classical dress watch offering, focusing on refined elegance. Many of these contemporary models are equipped with the Swatch Group’s Caliber 80 movement, which provides an 80-hour power reserve, and Mido continues to be one of the industry’s leading producers of COSC-certified chronometers.
