03/25/2017

BASELWORLD 2017: An iconic model at the cutting edge of technology

With the new Commander Icône, Mido pays homage to one of its most iconic models, which has been in constant production since 1959. Its neo-vintage design adopts most of the codes responsible for the Commander's success: extremely pure lines, maximum space granted to the superb sunray satin-finished dial, and the steel Milanese mesh bracelet. Behind this retro look resides cutting-edge technology at the forefront of watchmaking innovation. The Commander Icône is equipped with the Caliber 80 Si, a COSC-certified chronometer movement with a silicon balance-spring – a component that gives far greater long-term precision than a standard balance-spring. This latest-generation calibre also gives it formidable autonomy: up to 80 hours of power reserve.

Its slender, round case in satin-finished steel endows the Commander collection with an inimitable and immediately recognisable silhouette, just like the Eiffel Tower. And like this unique structure, it has withstood the effects of time to retain an eternally youthful aspect. Its exceptional longevity offers indisputable proof of its success – the Commander has been produced by Mido without interruption since 1959. It has thus spanned almost six decades, preserving the DNA that has forged its reputation. Much like Paris’s symbolic monument, the Commander has become a genuine icon, epitomising Swiss watchmaking tradition and expertise.

Mido wanted to pay homage to this remarkable model. With its neo-vintage design, the new Commander Icône has kept most of the aesthetic codes responsible for its original success. Measuring 42 mm in diameter, its round satin-finished stainless steel case gives it undeniable finesse and creates its inimitable look. The case is enhanced by a polished bezel, while extremely pure lines outline a superb anthracite sunray satin-finished dial protected by a faceted, domed sapphire crystal. Ensuring functionality and legibility, the maximum space granted to the dial is another of the values inherited from the original model. To guarantee perfect night-time readability, the indexes feature white Super-LumiNova®, as do the hour and minute hands while an aperture at 3 o’clock indicates the day and date. The Milanese mesh bracelet highlights the Commander Icône's retro look. Made from satin-finished stainless steel, it is integrated into the case and can be easily adjusted thanks to its sliding clasp.

While the Commander Icône incorporates a number of nods to the original model, it also undeniably up-to-date as it is fitted with the Caliber 80 Si, a COSC-certified chronometer movement featuring a silicon balance-spring. Essential in luxury watchmaking, this component offers far greater long-term accuracy than a standard balance-spring as well as increased resistance to magnetism and shocks. This latest-generation calibre also gives it formidable autonomy: up to 80 hours of power reserve. Decorated with blued screws and an oscillating weight adorned with Geneva Stripes and the Mido logo, this automatic chronometer movement can be admired through the transparent case back. The Commander Icône is water-resistant up to a pressure of 5 bars (50 m / 165 ft).

Two other versions of this model are also available.