Minimalist Watches: Mido Commander Icone Review
Mido, a brand under the Swatch Group, has a rich history of crafting Swiss mechanical watches since 1918. One of their notable lines, the Commander, has been in existence since 1959. However, Mido has faced challenges in establishing a cohesive brand identity, particularly in the United States. Despite this, the Commander line remains the most iconic and recognizable among their offerings. It embodies a timeless charm that some may label as “traditional,” risking an undeserved perception of being outdated. Nevertheless, Mido has introduced the Commander Icône, a retro-inspired dress watch that combines style and substance at an attractive price point of under $1,500. Notably, this timepiece features a COSC-certified movement with a silicon balance spring, delivering an impressive 80-hour power reserve.
The Mido Commander Icône pays homage to the timeless Commander dress watch while adding its own unique flair. With a diameter of 42mm, the watch features a perfectly round and instantly recognizable case, blending a classic charm with a contemporary size. Choose between a sophisticated gray or white sunray satin-brushed dial, both elegantly enclosed within a satin-finished stainless steel case.
The luminescent hour and minute hands ensure clear visibility, while the dial cleverly avoids any distracting glare. While maintaining a minimalist design, the inclusion of a day/date window at 3 o’clock may spark varying opinions. Personally, I find it quite appealing, although it does contribute to a vintage aesthetic. This effect is particularly pronounced in the white dial variant with a gold-framed day/date window, whereas the gray dial version maintains a sleeker overall appearance. Conversely, the white aperture blending seamlessly with the white dial enhances the appeal of that particular model. Additionally, the polished hour indices, which match the hour and minute hands, add a touch of refinement and craftsmanship to the watch’s aesthetic.
The circular case remains largely untouched, complemented by a discreet crown, while the integrated Milanese bracelet enhances its sophisticated and masculine charm. The bracelet features a convenient sliding clasp, allowing for effortless adjustment. Personally, I find the Milanese mesh bracelet to be a perfect match for this timepiece, and the seamless integration of the lugs adds a natural touch that significantly contributes to its subtle allure. The meticulous finishes on the hands, indices, bracelet, and movement further elevate its overall appeal, making it a truly unique choice among other options available. However, it is worth mentioning that the round case and the day/date window are the initial elements that catch your attention.
Upon flipping the watch, one’s gaze is met with the exhibition caseback, a window into the inner workings of the timepiece. Here, the automatic Mido Caliber 80 Si takes center stage. With its employment of a silicon balance spring and friction-reducing materials, this movement operates at 21,600 vibrations per hour and boasts an impressive 80-hour power reserve, a testament to its prowess.
Similar to the Ocean Star Captain V watch, the Commander Icône draws its strength from a combination of distinctive aesthetics, meticulous finishes, and a reliable, if not remarkable, movement—all at a highly appealing price. While Mido has found a receptive audience in China, Mexico, and parts of South America (where “Mido” translates to “measure” in Spanish), it remains to be seen if it can carve out a similar niche in the American market. Nevertheless, for those who appreciate classic design accompanied by innovative horology, the Commander Icône undeniably presents an enticing option, especially given its accessible price of $1,360.
