Mido Poker-Chip Watch

Founded by Georges Schaeren in November of 1918, the Swiss brand is relatively young in the vintage watch industry. Yet their emergence was felt in the preceding decades with models such as the PowerWind, Multi-Centerchrono, Ocean Star as well as the charismatic “brand ambassador” Robi of the late 1930s. 

Yet some horological accessories really expand the love and appreciation for watchmaking. They can come in the form of coin watches, travel clocks, canes, rings, etc. Every now and then there are those extra special timepieces that make your jaw drop upon their revelation. However, this Mido is not as simple as a card trick. It is truly as magical as it gets.

The dial features the stylish signature “Mido” with a “shockproof” beneath. The vertical brushed surface and sword hands make the dial easily legible, despite being only 24mm wide. On the right hemisphere of the dial, there is a small streak  The center section of the watch is a black lacquer with colored inlay of a deck of cards. The exterior of the case incorporates a smooth cylindrical bezel, which is signed “MIDO Limited”. The width measures in at 44mm with a height of around 8.5mm. The crown features an interesting geometric pattern which captures the light 

On the opposite side, it features an exhibition caseback showcasing what appears to be a gold pallet fork. The movement’s bridge bears the import code AXF, corresponding with the renowned outdoorsman retailer Abercrombie & Fitch Co. The import code is was shared between Mido and Heuer. This is one of the few timepieces that ties in the relationship between the manufacturer and retailer (a separate one being a prototype Mido Seafarer).   

The unusual pocket watch has somewhat of a roulette wheel inspiration that makes one’s mind travel to Las Vegas casino vibes. One can only imagine its previous owner fancied himself as a Sam "Ace" Rothstein type figure. Or perhaps even a ladies man based on the King of Hearts located on the dial. Maybe even a decorated card shark in their local community of the 1950s. Whomever the watch is destined for in the present, they’re likely a passionate collector with a love for whimsical horological instruments.

The only other example I have been able to locate is one sold in 2011 by Antiquorum. The watch was described as being illustrated in Histoire et Technique de La Montre Suisse, Jaquet & Chapuis, 1945, pl. 156. Additionally, there are similar models identified as reference 298 POK (Poker) and 298 DOM (Dominoes) illustrated in a 1937 SHJ issue that can be seen below (images credit: Bruce’s Vintage Watches). Additionally, a similar example can be seen within the 1958 video on ‘Novelty Watches‘ at 1:30.

SOLD