Imagine a timepiece that turns back the clock to the nostalgic glow of old-school television, blending retro charm with cutting-edge sportiness—now, that’s the thrilling essence of the new Mido Multifort TV Big Date S01E02! But here’s where it gets controversial: is this playful design just a fun gimmick, or a bold statement on how luxury watches can embrace pop culture without sacrificing elegance? Dive in with me as we explore this episode in Mido’s unfolding series.
Mido, a brand known for its accessible luxury (check out their full range at https://monochrome-watches.com/category/mido/), has quietly carved out a niche with their TV-shaped Multifort models (search for more at https://monochrome-watches.com/search/mido+tv/). The original Multifort TV Big Date (featured in this hands-on review: https://monochrome-watches.com/hands-on-mido-multifort-tv-big-date-sports-watch-gradient-dial-integrated-bracelet-rubber-strap-live-pics-specs-price/) offered a compact, square-with-rounded-corners case that mimics a vintage TV screen, complete with a prominent big date window at 12 o’clock and a reliable automatic movement based on modern Powermatic technology. The S01E01 ‘Test Screen’ edition from last year proved that this format could be delightfully whimsical while staying serious in performance—think of it as a pilot that hooked everyone. Now, the Multifort TV Big Date Special Edition S01E02 builds on that success, much like season one’s second episode: it retains the strong foundation but refines the visuals with sharper direction and a sleek, black-and-white canvas that makes the colors truly stand out. For beginners wondering about TV test cards, these were the patterned screens broadcast before programming to help calibrate sets— a perfect metaphor for how Mido layers tech specs with playful aesthetics.
Worn on the wrist, the watch’s 40mm by 39.2mm case (spanning 46.85mm lug-to-lug) strikes an ideal balance—distinctive enough to catch eyes as a design statement, yet subtle enough not to overwhelm. This model’s stainless steel case gets its first-ever uniform grey PVD coating in the line, creating a slimming effect that adds a modern, industrial polish to the edges. You’ll notice how brushed surfaces blend seamlessly with polished highlights; the wide bezel features gentle bulges at 12 and 6 o’clock, and a sand-blasted pip at 12 serves as a tactile 12-hour marker. Practical features abound: a secure screw-down crown with protective guards, 100 meters of water resistance, and a sapphire crystal treated with anti-reflective coating on both sides for crystal-clear views. A screwed-on transparent back lets you peek at the inner workings. All in all, it delivers a tidy, enjoyable silhouette with a moderate footprint, ensuring comfort and wearability—ideal for daily adventures or weekend outings.
And this is the part most people miss: while the previous S01E01 edition loudly evoked a classic broadcast test card, the S01E02 takes a softer, smarter approach. The multicolored center isn’t just a static decal; it’s an intricate relief pattern mimicking ‘pixel-noise’—a shimmering micro-geometry that shifts with light and movement, adding depth and intrigue. Flanking it, an inclined black flange boasts white markings for the minute track, framed by a grey border. Recessed hour markers glow with white Super-LumiNova for low-light visibility, paired with diamond-cut, faceted hands that luminesce to match. At the heart, the Multifort’s iconic big date at 12 (in crisp white on black) ensures readability, anchoring the design. The vibrant colors pop against the grey PVD case, toning down the palette to feel like intentional artistry rather than mere novelty—perfect for those who appreciate subtle sophistication.
When it comes to the movement, there’s no reinventing the wheel here, and that’s a good thing for reliability. The Mido Calibre 80, built on the ETA C07.651 (also known as Powermatic for its robust performance—learn more at https://monochrome-watches.com/swatch-groups-powermatic-movement-a-powerful-entry-level-engine/), is Mido’s dependable powerhouse. It boasts an 80-hour power reserve, ticks at 21,600 vibrations per hour, and features a Nivachron balance spring to resist shocks and magnetic fields. The big date jumps instantly, and viewing through the transparent back reveals a striped rotor with clean, industrial finishes—straightforward yet effective.
Mido hasn’t skimped on versatility, equipping the S01E02 with a full ensemble for any occasion. Included is an integrated grey-PVD steel bracelet with polished center links and a secure push-button folding clasp, letting the dial shine in formal settings. For a casual vibe, two quick-change rubber straps in vibrant blue and yellow come with matching relief patterns and PVD pin buckles—transforming the watch into weekend-ready mode in mere seconds. It’s like having multiple personalities in one package, appealing to style chameleons.
Delivered in a special presentation box, this isn’t a numbered limited edition, but it does feel exclusive with its themed release. Priced at CHF 1,290 including taxes, it’s accessible luxury at its finest. Head to www.midowatches.com (https://www.midowatches.com/) for more info and to snag one—from November 12th, 2025, it’ll be available.
Technical Specifications – Mido Multifort TV Big Date Special Edition S01E02
Case: 40mm x 39.2mm (TV-shaped) – 46.85mm lug-to-lug – stainless steel with grey PVD coating, satin and polished finish – screw-down crown with guards – sapphire crystal, anti-reflective on both sides – screw-on transparent caseback – 100m water-resistance
Dial: multicolored relief “pixel-noise” center on a grey field – recessed hour markers with Super-LumiNova – white minute track on the flange – big date at 12 (white on black) – diamond-cut, faceted hour and minute hands with Super-LumiNova – flat faceted central seconds hand
Movement: Mido Calibre 80 (based on ETA C07.651) – automatic – 21,600 vibrations per hour – 25 jewels – Nivachron balance spring – instantaneous big date – 80-hour power reserve – adjusted in three positions – displays hours, minutes, seconds, and big date on two discs
Bracelet: grey-PVD steel bracelet with push-button folding clasp – plus additional blue and yellow rubber straps with quick-change bars and PVD pin buckles
Reference: M049.526.33.081.01
Availability: special edition, starting November 12th, 2025
Price: CHF 1,290 (including taxes)
But let’s stir the pot a bit: some purists might argue that fusing TV nostalgia with watch design dilutes the timeless essence of horology, turning a serious instrument into a pop-culture toy. Others see it as democratizing luxury, making high-end features fun and approachable. What do you think—does this blend innovation with frivolity, or is it a fresh take on modern design? Share your views in the comments: Are you team nostalgia or team tradition? Could this inspire bolder experiments in watchmaking, or is it a risky gamble?
https://monochrome-watches.com/mido-multifort-tv-big-date-special-edition-s01e02-pixel-noise-tv-test-card-motif-dial-price-review/