Jan Ernst Matzeliger Pocket Watch T-Shirt

Defend Black Brooklyn: Jan E. Matzeliger “The Shoe Industry’s Hidden Genius.” Matzeliger’s breakthrough lasting machine changed the entire footwear industry, yet he received little recognition in his lifetime due to racism and limited protections for Black inventors. 

The front design features an archival photograph of Jan Ernst Matzeliger and a patent drawing, encased in a distinguished pocket watch design, to highlight the wealth that inventors and engineers didn't receive for their designs and inventions because of racism. A visual reminder to honor history whenever you step out. 

This heavyweight garment-dyed tee carries more than ink — it carries memory. The muted, lived-in color and vintage photo design invite reflection and conversation. Wear it on slow mornings, running errands, or chilling with friends. The relaxed cut and substantial fabric feel grounding, like a reliable companion in the work of holding difficult truths. Thoughtfully produced and responsibly made, it speaks to those who want their clothing to reflect values as well as history.

It feels lived-in from the first wear. The relaxed cut and wide rib collar give it casual ease, while the vintage wash brings out a soft, muted tone that pairs with denim or layered jackets. This shirt settles into your rotation and carries a sense of memory and place every time you put it on.

Each historical portrait piece on DBM comes with a QR code that takes you to a brief bio about the person or erasure event depicted on the garment.

Product features
- 100% heavyweight cotton (6.0 oz/yd²) for durability and structure
- Garment-dyed finish for a vintage, broken-in color and texture
- Relaxed fit with wide rib collar and shoulder/neck twill taping for comfort and shape retention
- Ethically produced: OEKO-TEX Standard 100, FLA and WRAP-certified manufacturing
- Tear-away label and DTF inner neck label; prints applied with DTG for detailed imagery

Care instructions
- Machine wash: cold (max 30C or 90F), gentle cycle
- Non-chlorine: bleach as needed
- Tumble dry: low heat
- Iron, steam or dry: low heat
- Do not dryclean