Originally a low-key, perhaps even boring, vintage remake, the Commander 1959 Pixel Dial livens things up with a vibrant array of blue, purple, and pink squares printed on the black dial. The new Mido departs from our usual focus on higher-end mechanical watchmaking, but at a little over US$700, it combines affordability, good-enough quality, and fun.

The blue and pink squares are actually Super-LumiNova on matte black, creating a striking illuminated pixel dial in the dark. The dial is housed in the classic Commander 1959 case characterised by a “Milanese” mesh bracelet, flat bezel, and domed acrylic crystal, which evokes an unmistakable mid-century aesthetic that contrasts with the funky pixel dial.

Initial thoughts

Several of Mido’s recent releases, including the Ocean Star Decompression Timer 1961, combine inject vibrant colours and details into vintage-inspired designs. The new Commander 1959 continues this with its unmistakably 1950s-style case paired with a modern dial. Despite the dial’s array of colours, legibility is excellent thanks to the wide hands and markers.

The Pixel Dial is a simple iteration of the original, and consequently remains affordable at US$740. Like many other watches in the same price range made by Mido’s parent Swatch Group (which also owns Tissot and Longines amongst others), the Commander 1959 is equipped with the Powermatic 80, a no-frills, economical movement that nonetheless provides an impressive 80-hour power reserve.

Patterned pixels

The stainless steel case measures 37 mm in diameter and 10.5 mm in thickness, though the lugless design allows it to wear smaller than its dimensions suggest.

The standout feature is the dial covered in blue, purple, and pink squares against a black backdrop. The blue and pink squares, along with the hour and minute hands, are filled with different types of Super-Luminova. The applied hour indices incorporate black inserts, but luminous dots on the polished inner flange serve as hour markers in the dark.

The watch is driven by the Swatch Group’s Powermatic 80, a movement found in entry-level offerings across its stable of brands. Thoroughly industrial and basic, the calibre features a Nivachron balance spring, which gives it resistance to magnetism and temperature variations.

Key facts and price

Mido Commander 1959 Pixel Dial
Ref. M8429.4.N7.11

Diameter: 37 mm
Height: 10.5 mm
Material: Stainless steel
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 50 m

Movement: Powermatic 80
Functions: Hours, minutes, and seconds
Winding: Automatic
Frequency: 21,600 beats per hour (3 Hz)
Power reserve: 80 hours

Strap: Matching steel bracelet

Limited edition: No
Availability: Now at Mido boutiques and retailers
Price: US$740

For more, visit midowatches.com