Mido has unveiled a new Commander Gradient Catrines Special Edition, a watch that blends tradition with unexpected vibrancy. Inspired by the brand’s heritage but executed with a striking dial concept, this release offers something that feels both familiar and daring, expanding the appeal of the Commander line beyond its usual codes.
Mido and the Commander legacy
Founded in 1918, Mido has built a reputation within the Swatch Group as a brand delivering Swiss reliability with approachable pricing. Among its long-standing collections, the Commander has stood out since 1959 for its clean, functional design and timeless round case. With its thin bezel and uncluttered dial, the Commander has often been positioned as an everyday watch with a touch of elegance. The new Gradient Catrines Special Edition pushes this narrative further, showing Mido’s willingness to reinterpret its staples while staying true to its accessible luxury ethos.
Technical execution and mechanical details
The watch comes in a 40 mm stainless steel case, maintaining the polished surfaces and slender profile that have defined the Commander line for decades. The star of the show is undoubtedly the dial: a gradient smoked finish that gradually fades to transparency at the edges, revealing the automatic Caliber 80 beneath. This movement, based on the ETA C07.611, offers an impressive 80-hour power reserve and is visible from both the caseback and partially through the dial itself. The transparent effect is not just decorative—it emphasizes the mechanical nature of the piece and connects the wearer directly to the heart of the watch. A sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment ensures clarity, while water resistance is rated at 50 meters, enough for daily wear.
A design for the expressive and the bold
Unlike the more conservative Commander models, the Gradient Catrines Special Edition speaks to a wearer looking for a watch that is both versatile and slightly provocative. The smoked dial, combined with vivid accents and the exposed mechanics, brings a sense of modern urban style to a classic silhouette. It is a piece that works as easily in a casual setting—paired with denim and sneakers—as it does under a blazer for an evening out. There are subtle nods to contemporary design culture here, but always anchored in Swiss watchmaking traditions. For someone who appreciates the history of the Commander line yet wants a watch that feels more expressive and personal, this edition delivers.
Pricing, availability, and final thoughts
The Mido Commander Gradient Catrines Special Edition is available now through official retailers and online. Pricing is set around $1,050 USD, placing it firmly in the sweet spot for enthusiasts seeking a Swiss automatic with character. In my view, it’s a refreshing interpretation of a Mido classic: it manages to stay true to its DNA while inviting a younger, style-conscious audience into the fold. And if you like the brand, you will love this hidden gem : the Multifort TV Chronograph.
