When I was offered the opportunity to write about the PVD Liberty watch from Minuteman Watch Co., it was the story behind the company that first intrigued me, and I felt compelled to share it with our readers. We always try to bring attention to companies that keep production (and jobs, tax dollars, etc.), in the United States. But an American-made watch is not very common. Combine that with a company that donates a generous amount of their profits to help veterans, and Minuteman is indeed pretty special. Before I explain about the company, I’ll share the details of the watch itself.
The Liberty model I have been wearing for a couple of weeks now is stainless steel, with a PVD coating, a process that has been around for a while, but has been refined recently by NASA. Tough enough for outer space? Yes. So plenty tough for a watch. In short, Physical Vapor Deposition is the process of vaporizing a metal, and applying it to the item being coated. Not only does it look great, but it’s about ten times more durable than untreated metal. That means your watch is going to look as good as new for many years. Minuteman also uses a scratch-resistant sapphire crystal with internal anti-reflective coatings. Low light performance is enhanced by luminous hands, and although it ships with a leather band (sourced in America), it also comes with a fully stitched nylon NATO Zulu band, which I found easy to install, and more comfortable. Actual timekeeping is courtesy of a Swiss ETA 955.112 movement. I did a bit or research on the watch geek forums, and this 7 jewel movement has earned plenty of praise. Overall, a high quality timepiece.
From the spec, it’s safe to say this a pretty serious watch, not something to be taken lightly. Now consider following information when you decide to purchase from Minuteman Watch Co.: The case is made and coated here in the United States. Then the imported movement is assembled into the case by American workers, and the American leather band is added. After sales, the profits are split, with 25% going to a charity that works with veterans, another 25% is used to pay their employees, and the remaining profit is invested back in the business. A great business model, which I fully support. Many companies today donate a percentage to charity, but 25% is a big chunk of change, and really says something about the mission of Minuteman. Keeping production in the United States, and returning so much of their profits back to those that have served us, that’s an admirable business plan in today’s outsourced, “everyone wants to line their pockets with cheap labor” economy.
If you’re looking for a new watch for yourself, or as a gift, consider one from Minuteman Watch Co. When you do, you’re not just buying a quality timepiece, you’re supporting American workers, and veterans. Of course, you’re also buying an attractive and durable watch that will provide the wearer with many years of service. That’s a win all around. Minutemanwatches.com
– Brian
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the Minuteman PVD Liberty Watch for free from Minuteman Watch Co., as coordinated by Deep Creek PR Outdoor Retailer Public Relations, in consideration for review publication.