Independent watchmaker Haven Watch Co. has launched a timepiece that speaks directly to Midwestern music lovers with its LIVE Series: First Avenue collaboration, commemorating the iconic Minneapolis venue’s 55th anniversary.
Though the release coincided with the bustling Watches and Wonders trade show, this distinctive timepiece deserves its own spotlight now that the horological world has caught its breath.
Midwest And Melodies
Haven has built its reputation on unconventional designs that embrace a distinctly Midwestern ethos. This unpretentious approach perfectly aligns with their LIVE (Legendary Independent Venue Edition) series, which previously honored Chicago’s Metro and now celebrates First Avenue, the Minneapolis institution famously featured in Prince’s “Purple Rain.”
The timepiece features a 39mm stainless steel case with a substantial 12mm profile and impressive 200m water resistance. Its design builds upon Haven’s Lomax diver series but introduces a conversation-starting dial that will undoubtedly polarize enthusiasts.
The black dial showcases a distinctive brick pattern motif—an homage to First Avenue’s iconic facade—while incorporating references to both the main venue and its sister location, 7th St Entry.
For Minnesota natives and music aficionados, the watch offers subtle nods to local culture through thoughtful details throughout the dial design, including the Haven logo and “Minneapolis” text that roots the timepiece firmly in its geographic inspiration. The watch comes equipped with a coffin-link bracelet alongside additional rubber and leather straps, providing versatility for different wearing occasions.
Community-Minded Horology With Musical Heart
Beyond its unique aesthetics, this collaboration demonstrates Haven’s commitment to supporting independent music venues and their surrounding communities. Proceeds from the watch’s sales will benefit the Twin Cities Music Community Trust, a local non-profit organization, reinforcing the meaningful connection between this horological creation and the cultural landmark it celebrates.
Powering the First Avenue timepiece is the reliable Sellita SW360-1 automatic movement, offering functions for hours, minutes, subsidiary seconds, and date. With a 56-hour power reserve and 28,800 vph frequency, the caliber provides dependable performance suitable for daily wear.
The luminous elements deserve special mention, with strategically placed lume creating a nighttime display that echoes the venue’s iconic features: First Avenue’s star at 12 o’clock, its wordmark at 1, “7th” at 7 o’clock representing the Entry, and “Minneapolis” beneath 6 o’clock.
Limited to just 55 pieces—matching the venue’s anniversary—and priced at $1,299, the Haven Watch Co. LIVE Series: First Avenue collaboration represents a unique intersection of independent watchmaking and music venue preservation.
With deliveries beginning in May, this commemorative timepiece offers enthusiasts the opportunity to wear a piece of Minneapolis musical heritage while supporting the vibrant cultural landscape that makes the Midwest’s independent music scene so special.
For those who appreciate watches with genuine character and community connection, this unconventional diver stands as a testament to Haven’s willingness to explore the road less traveled in watch design—with a distinctly Midwestern soundtrack playing in the background.
