“Another COSC-certified one hits the shelves…”
Before I drop details on the Mido Multifort Chronometer¹, here’s a bit of trivia for y’all. Did you know that Mido is one of the top five brands that produces the highest number of COSC-certified pieces annually? Neither did I until a little birdie told me so. Now, back to the watch. Mido Malaysia recently launched the Multifort Chronometer¹ at a dedicated event following the press preview of its 2019 Novelties. Unfortunately, several models are still embargoed so we can’t reveal them yet. Yours truly, however, can reveal certain models and has done so on the Instagram page here.
Yes, that isn’t a very subtle plug so GIVE US A FOLLOW!
As for the Mido Multifort Chronometer¹, here’s what you need to know at a glance. Prices begin at RM4,800 and top out at RM5,590. Seven variants are available in total. All have the same case dimensions with the only real difference between each being the choice of straps and dial colours.
“Let me guess, the biggest change from the old Multifort is invisible, then?”
Well, yes. Obviously, the movement is the star here and while you can gaze at it, thanks to the transparent caseback, the upgrades are mostly technical. The Mido Caliber 80 Si, which is based off an ETA C07.821, provides a handy 80-hour power reserve. Other highlights include the adoption of a silicon balance spring for improved accuracy and greater anti-magnetic properties. Also, an ELINFLEX mainspring, some degree of decoration and of course, the all-important COSC certification are to be found. The latter also allows Mido Malaysia to tack on another year of warranty on top of the standard 2-year period.
Now, for other relevant tech specs. The 25-jeweled caliber beats at 3 Hz and has a day-date display function in addition to hours, minutes and seconds. Water resistance is quoted at 100 metres.
“What about the aesthetics?”
Now, I don’t know about you but the Mido Multifort Chronometer¹ is a pretty solid choice to recommend to someone who’s looking for a high-quality, Swiss piece that won’t break the bank to wear everyday. I mean, think about it. You’ve got one heck of a power reserve, a dial design that blends into almost any setting, day and date display plus great accuracy to boot. It could even be part of a one-watch collection, I reckon. And it could be for me if not for one major personal issue.
The case of 42 mm.
My puny wrists are to blame here, folks. Combined with a case thickness of 11.79 mm, I fear that the Mido Multifort Chronometer¹ might be too large for me. If you’ve got larger wrists, go and try it out in the flesh before writing it off. You owe yourself that, at the very least.
Speaking of the case and its relevant dimensions, the lug width is measured at 22 mm. Also, a screw-down crown is featured, as is a sapphire crystal with AR (anti-reflective) treatment on both sides.
*in an overly cheerful ad voice* “With 7 variants, you’re sure to find one that suits you!”
Actually, I did. Reference number M038.431.37.051.09 is its official designation within the lineup. This particular model comes with a black dial, black PVD coated case and a combination fabric-rubber beige strap. The other dial colours include dark grey and silver while strap options are between a two-tone steel bracelet, a silver steel bracelet, brown or black leather and the aforementioned fabric-rubber combo strap.
If only my wrists were larger, sigh…
As for the hands themselves, Mido says they are “satin-finished” along with the applied indices. What I personally found to be a nice touch was the fact that the hands and markers echo each specific reference and the corresponding colour scheme. For instance, going with a rose gold case would net you rose gold markers and hands while opting for an uncoloured, silver case gets you silver markers and hands, respectively. Even the lume plots are coloured in contrast with my favourite being the beige/off-white lume pips on the reference M038.431.37.051.00 and M038.431.37.051.09.
“Sounds like good value for money, this Multifort Chronometer¹…”
At the risk of sounding like a parrot, yes. For around RM5k, you’re getting a Swiss timepiece from a brand with 100 years of history, a movement from one of the most renowned manufacturers and aesthetics that can go from boardroom to board games almost effortlessly.
To those interested in trying on the Mido Multifort Chronometer¹, the watches are already available at retailers and Mido boutiques nationwide. The latter two are located inside Plaza Gurney, Penang and on Level 4, Pavilion Elite, Kuala Lumpur.
