Minuteman Watch Co. MM04 Review

In the world of sporty cases, this one is hard to beat. At 43mm, it hits the “sweet spot” for many watch lovers, who are looking for a “watch for all seasons.” The lugs slightly curve down adding to its wear ability, while maintaining a substantial wrist presence. The screw down crown is positioned at 3 and sits in between the case’s hefty crown guards.

This is usually where I mention the reviewed watch’s water rating, which in this case is 200m/ 660ft, and then leave it alone. Instead, I’ll mention a few more things here that while reviewing the MM04 completely caught me off guard, in the best of ways, since it speaks volumes about the detailed testing that is being done on Minuteman watches. As mentioned previously, the watchmakers that hand assemble the Minuteman watch line are all CMW21 certified. These are the guys that train other guys to do what they do. Instead of performing a dry vacuum test only, a 300m wet test, one that exceeds ISO standards, is performed on this 200m model. That’s what I call “going above and beyond.” As if that wasn’t enough, humidity tests are completed as well. Now we’re in the Rolex test category, for a watch that is designed to provide extreme functionality at a price point that makes this watch attainable to most.

I was relieved to see that the crystal on this model is sapphire, since I consider this to be an outdoorsy field watch. For weeks, this has been my work companion and it has taken the abuse well. Of course, the leather strap dresses it up a bit, allowing for the watch to transition well into a dinner party.

The stainless steel screw down case back plays well with the DLC case, as it offers a glimpse of pop to the overall look of the watch head. A more intricate minuteman soldier can be found at the center of the case back and behind it, the American flag can be seen flying in the wind. Just another subtle reference to Minuteman Watch Co.’s motif. While you’ll find many words on the case back, most giving you the watch’s pertinent information, there are four words that really stand out; “by patriots for patriots.” If you listen closely, you can almost hear Lee Greenwood signing in the distance!

The leather strap, equipped with a stainless steel tang buckle, which mine came on, is really nice and I’m told that it alone retails in the 80 dollar neighborhood. Not a leather guy? The MM0 line also comes with the aforementioned Nato strap as well, giving this watch an even more tactical look.

In regards to movement, Minuteman made not attempts to cut cost, as they went with a more expensive ETA 955.112 Swiss Made quartz movement, which features and end of life indicator. The watch comes with a 5 year warranty and Free Lifetime Battery Replacement.

As if my excitement didn’t quite come through in my above writings, I’ll sum it up here. After reviewing this watch, I’d like to stand up and salute this patriotic brand; one that has left me impressed with every tic my watch takes. So, if you’re in the market for an affordable watch that can do everything and want to feel American as hell while doing those things, scoop up one of Minuteman’s models. Not only will you bear a great timepiece, you’ll love knowing that somewhere, a war veteran is saluting you back!