1940s Mido Multifort Datometer Super-Automatic Bumber 33.5mm

Here we have an incredibly rare 1940s Mido Multifort Datometer Super-Automatic, reference 5862, featuring a beautifully proportioned 33.5mm stainless steel case made by Taubert & Fils, who had acquired the prominent watch case company François Borgel in 1924. Gently curving over your wrist with sculpted, tapered drilled lugs, a lug-to-lug length of 41mm, and a case thickness of 11mm for a comfortable, versatile fit. On the right side, a coin-edged push-pull crown allows for easy winding and setting. A smooth bezel supports a domed acrylic crystal positioned directly above a breathtaking, patinated pointer-date dial. This highly coveted dial boasts a faint ‘roulette’ outer date track numbered 1 to 31, showcasing an extraordinary depth of character that only comes with true age. Surrounding the dial are Arabic numerals coated in Radium that deliver exceptional vintage legibility. The ultra-clean layout balances historical utility with style, complemented by a sweeping central second-hand and a central red-tipped crescent pointer hand that points to the outer track. On the reverse, a screw-down decagonal case back proudly displays the watch details. Beating inside is the ultra-reliable, Swiss-made bumper automatic Mido calibre 917 B movement, a historic and charmingly tactile calibre that gently thuds as the rotor bounces between its internal springs, powering the watch. It comes paired with a 16mm premium vintage-style leather strap.

This watch is sold as "Watch Only" and, therefore, comes with no original Mido box or paperwork. It is paired with a well-suited quick-release aftermarket 18mm leather strap and pin buckle. The watch is from Circa. 1940s and is sold in worn vintage condition, but overall it is in fair condition, with a unique dial patina, and is an honest original example, as you can see. The watch comes with our 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty.

This is one of those watches that's a little harder to let go of than most. It's been part of the personal KibbleWatches Vault for a while, and every time I pick it up, I'm reminded why I bought it in the first place. The beautifully aged pointer-date dial, the wonderfully tactile bumper automatic movement, and the sheer rarity of the reference make it a genuinely special piece. The truth is, though, it deserves more wrist time than I can give it. As much as I'd love to keep every watch that finds its way into the Vault, they're meant to be worn and enjoyed, not left sitting in a box. I'll certainly be sad to see this one leave, but I hope it finds a collector who appreciates just how brilliant it is. Watches like this don't come along very often, and it's exactly the sort of understated vintage gem that makes collecting so rewarding. Snap it up before I change my mind!

Reference : 5862
Movement : Bumper Automatic Mido Cal. 917 B
Age : Circa. 1940s
Year : Circa. 1940s
Case Size : 33.5mm
Case Thickness : 11mm
Lug to Lug : 41mm
Lugs : 16mm
Condition : Pre-Owned
Box and Papers : None
Case Material : Stainless Steel
Warranty : 12-Months NON-Waterproof Warranty
The wrist model's wrist size is 7inch

Mido was established in 1918 by Mr Georges Schaeren in the picturesque backdrop of Switzerland. During the 1920s, Mido continued to innovate by producing timepieces that echoed the aesthetic of radiator grills from iconic car manufacturers such as Buick, Bugatti, Fiat, and Ford, blending the worlds of horology and automotive design, and they were explicitly marketed as “motorist watches,” catering to the growing automotive culture of the time One notable piece, crafted from platinum, was presented to the King of Spain in 1927, highlighting the brand's commitment to craftsmanship and luxury. The name "Mido" is derived from the Spanish phrase "Yo Mido," which translates to "I measure." This origin reflects a meaningful concept of measurement and precision. In 1934, Mido pushed the boundaries of watch technology by introducing the Multifort, which was significant for being the first Mido watch equipped with a self-winding automatic movement. The Multifort quickly became a commercial success, dominating sales for the brand from the 1930s through the 1950s, thanks to its innovative mechanics and stylish design. The post-war era brought further advancements; in 1945, Mido unveiled the central-read chronograph, a pioneering watch that featured all of its stopwatch hands positioned in the centre of the dial, enhancing readability and functionality. By 1954, Mido launched the POWERWIND mechanism, recognised as the world's most efficient winding system at that time, further solidifying Mido’s reputation for technological innovation. 1959 marked a turning point with the introduction of the Mido Ocean Star, which featured a groundbreaking single-shell case design that enhanced waterproofness and durability. Throughout the 1970s, Mido expanded its offerings, introducing luxurious variations of the Ocean Star model that incorporated semi-precious stones, appealing to a clientele that valued both elegance and performance. In 2002, Mido took inspiration from architecture with the launch of the All Dial watch line, designed to echo the grandeur of the Roman Coliseum, showcasing the brand’s artistic flair. The year 2008 was significant as it celebrated Mido's 90th anniversary, a testament to its rich heritage and enduring influence in the watchmaking world. Continuing its journey through time, in 2012, Mido introduced the "Great Wall" collection, drawing inspiration from the Great Wall of China, which resonated with themes of strength and endurance. Most notably, in 2018, Mido commemorated its 100th anniversary with the Big Date model, a celebration of the values and craftsmanship that have defined its identity over the century. Today, Mido is proudly part of the Swatch Group, continuing to innovate and inspire, while staying true to its roots in precision engineering and timeless design.