Yema Watch 2020 Gnomon Editor’s Special Picks

Introduction: The Birth of Yema

In 1948, under the name Yema, Henry Louis Belmont, a French watchmaker and pioneer, created his own watch company. Belmont graduated best in class from the Besançon National Watchmaking School in 1931.The story is that the brand name was born from the imagination of a teenager in a school contest organized by Henry Louis Belmont himself. The young student pictured a name which would be associated with fine French watchmaking without realizing it.

72 years later Yema has become one of the most famous watch brands in the world. Here is the Yema 2020 collection specially selected by the Gnomon editor.

Yema LED Silver

What does it take to become a true science fiction watch? The advent of the quartz watch (also known as the quartz crisis) in the 1970's to the early 80's sparked countless innovations along with rapid technological advances, leading to the integration of advanced miniature computers into watches. The introduction of light emitting diode (LED) digital watches took the world by storm, taking advantage of cutting-edge quartz technology with a display that illuminates time at the push of a button - a feature considered futuristic in their space-age invention of the head of time.

Fast forward to the present day, digital LED watches have enjoyed the spotlight with the recent popularity of many LED clock reset issues such as the Bulova Computron and Hamilton Pulsar. The unique, retrograde factor of vintage-inspired digital watches evokes a sense of enjoyment, a true throwback to the past. YEMA has joined forces to launch their own modern re-edition of the LED digital watch that mimics their LED collection from the YEMA catalog from the 1970s.

The case was redesigned in 3D construction, bringing added depth and detail while still capturing the retro futuristic aesthetic of the original 70s model. YEMA LED's corner 316L stainless steel case is precisely executed with a mixture of various finishes. The top of the watch is satin finished while the sides are polished. The striking polished chamfer edges showcase modern craftsmanship, adding contrast between the two finishes.

YEMA right on the head with classic, well-proportioned dimensions, 37.5 mm shell diameter and 42.5 mm lug to lug distance allow the YEMA LED to fit comfortably across any wrist size, looking right in place in a variety of scenarios. The watch has a slim casing profile that is only 10mm thick, glides smoothly under the shirt cuff, and minimizes the chance of hitting the watch painfully on a surface that would cause unsightly scratches.

Keeping in line with the vintage theme, this watch is equipped with a 20mm wide link stainless steel bracelet that adjusts nicely to the wrist. The bracelet is secured by a hook mechanism on the clip marked YEMA that locks it securely in place. The 20mm lug width matches a large selection of straps to suit any occasion.

YEMA LED features a stainless steel back case with a beautifully carved YEMA emblem, providing an impressive 330 feet (100 m) of water resistance, providing plenty of protection against accidental splashes.

On the front of the YEMA LED is a rectangular red mineral crystal that stretches horizontally from one end to the other, protecting the LED screen behind it. The dial lights up with red digits to tell the time with a single press of the button on the side of the case, a second press to display the date, and a third press to display the elapsed seconds. The dial at the 4 o'clock position is used to set the time and format, making watch operation simple and functional.

To optimize power performance, the YEMA LED remains in standby mode, only showing the time when the button was activated. This particular feature is part of the appeal of owning this piece, mimicking the feel and experience of this historic model - What a cool conversation starter.

In short, YEMA LED provides great value for the relaunch of LED digital watches. A futuristic retro design perfected with a modern twist allows this piece to look sleek while standing out from the crowd, attracting curiosity and interest. It is sure to be a delightful addition to any watch collection. Take a trip down memory lane every time you turn on the YEMA LED, feel what it's like to wear a piece of history on your wrist. Get one now on Gnomon Store!

Yema Flygraf Pilot M1

Yema, an unexpected name coined by Henry Louis Belmont during a school contest in his teenage years, has continued to gain a huge following during his 72 years of watchmaking. Graduated as best-in-class at the Besançon National Watchmaking School, Belmont fulfills his title with a beautiful timepiece that is out of this world, literally, as Yema Spationaute flies into space on the wrist of astronaut Jean-Loup Chrétien.

Fasten your seat belts as Yema introduces the newest addition to its aviator watch collection, the Yema Flygraf Pilot M1. Since the 1970s, the Yema Flygraf chronograph has been created in close collaboration with pilot watch enthusiasts and professional pilots to reach the highest peaks in the watch industry. Designed in conjunction with professional aerobatic pilot Sammy Mason who at 19 was the youngest member of the US National Advanced Aerobatic Team, this watch takes inspiration from Flieger and military field watches from World War II.

You'll be surprised by the exquisite in-house move, the MBP1000, that powers the Flygraf Pilot M1. This French automatic calibre is made of 31 rubies, has a power reserve of approximately 45 hours and runs at 28,800 BPH (3 Hertz). The use of this self-winding movement, completely designed, built and assembled at Yema's Morteau workshops in France, was new to the humble French watchmaker and greatly increased the watch's value.

The Flygraf Pilot M1 measures 39mm in diameter and provides a height of 13 mm and a lug to lug gap of 48mm, which is based on most wrist sizes. The case of this watch is made of tough 316L stainless steel, satin brushed for sparkling perfection. The sleek watch case is complemented by a fixed vertical brushed steel bezel that gives the watch the grand look characteristics of luxury sports watches such as the stunning Grand Seiko and Audemar Piguet. With polished beveled sides, the center case of this watch dominates the design and accentuates its short lugs.

Seamlessly engraved on the back of this pilot watch case, the vintage Yema insignia proudly claims its place on the back of this phenomenal timepiece. In addition, the Flygraf Pilot M1 is equipped with a screw signed knob protected by a knob guard that allows for 300 m of water resistance. Flying or fighting? The timepiece is a handy tool watch for both responses and flaunts a high-quality, scratch-resistant flat sapphire crystal on top of its dial.

The sporty matte black dial on this watch is what makes it stand out. Featuring a 24-hour inner scale in white that allows excellent legibility in the dark, this military-inspired vertical dial is reminiscent of the texture of Boeing's tough 1940s military airframe. To complete the dial's military look, this French watchmaker includes an aviation-style handset that mirrors what is found in the aircraft cockpit navigation instruments that adorn this watch with a sleek, professional look. Apart from that, the handset and index dial are coated with Super-LumiNova BGW9 which emits a brilliant blue color in the dark.

Designed to withstand the harshest air and ground conditions, the Flygraf Pilot M1 black canvas strap complements its textured dial and exhibits a captivating, trendy aesthetic. The strap also has a leather lining on the underside to ensure maximum comfort and is equipped with a signed steel buckle pin that matches the sturdy watch case.

The Flygraf Pilot M1 pulls you in with its professional yet powerful allure and it is as if on autopilot the watch finds its way into your heart and to your wrist. Crafted with top-of-the-line precision from the inside out, this pilot watch follows the adventures of athletes and explorers from all walks of life. Take time for your own adventures with this distinctive timepiece.

Yema Speedgraf

Fasten your seat belts as Yema introduces the newest addition to its aviator watch collection, the Yema Flygraf Pilot M1. Since the 1970s, the Yema Flygraf chronograph has been created in close collaboration with pilot watch enthusiasts and professional pilots to reach the highest peaks in the watch industry. Designed in conjunction with professional aerobatic pilot Sammy Mason who at 19 was the youngest member of the US National Advanced Aerobatic Team, this watch takes inspiration from Flieger and military field watches from World War II.

You'll be surprised by the exquisite in-house move, the MBP1000, that powers the Flygraf Pilot M1. This French automatic calibre is made of 31 rubies, has a power reserve of approximately 45 hours and runs at 28,800 BPH (3 Hertz). The use of this self-winding movement, completely designed, built and assembled at Yema's Morteau workshops in France, was new to the humble French watchmaker and greatly increased the watch's value.

Measuring 39mm in diameter, the Flygraf Pilot M1 offers a height of 13 mm and a lug to lug distance of 48mm, which rests on most wrist sizes. The case of this watch is made of tough 316L stainless steel, satin brushed for sparkling perfection. The sleek watch case is complemented by a fixed vertical brushed steel bezel that gives the watch the grand look characteristics of luxury sports watches such as the stunning Grand Seiko and Audemar Piguet. With polished beveled sides, the center case of this watch dominates the design and accentuates its short lugs.

Seamlessly engraved on the back of this pilot watch case, the vintage Yema insignia proudly claims its place on the back of this phenomenal timepiece. In addition, the Flygraf Pilot M1 is equipped with a screw signed knob protected by a knob guard that allows for 300 m of water resistance. Flying or fighting? The timepiece is a handy tool watch for both responses and flaunts a high-quality, scratch-resistant flat sapphire crystal on top of its dial.

The sporty matte black dial on this watch is what makes it stand out. Featuring a 24-hour inner scale in white that allows excellent legibility in the dark, this military-inspired vertical dial is reminiscent of the texture of Boeing's tough 1940s military airframe. To complete the dial's military look, this French watchmaker includes an aviation-style handset that mirrors what is found in the aircraft cockpit navigation instruments that adorn this watch with a sleek, professional look. Apart from that, the handset and index dial are coated with Super-LumiNova BGW9 which emits a brilliant blue color in the dark.

The Flygraf Pilot M1 black canvas strap, designed to endure the harshest air and ground conditions, complements its textured dial and exhibits a captivating, trendy aesthetic. The strap also has a leather lining on the underside to ensure maximum comfort and is equipped with a signed steel buckle pin that matches the sturdy watch case.

The Flygraf Pilot M1 pulls you in with its professional yet powerful allure and it is as if on autopilot the watch finds its way into your heart and to your wrist. Crafted with top-of-the-line precision from the inside out, this pilot watch follows the adventures of athletes and explorers from all walks of life. Take time for your own adventures with this distinctive timepiece.

Yema Flygraf Pilot M1 is available on Gnomon store, bring home this beauty now!

Yema Superman French Air Force Blackout 39mm - Ltd Ed 1948pcs

Yema is a name born in 1948, coined by Henry Louis Belmont, who graduated from the National Watchmaking School of Besancon in 1931.The name has survived to the present day and has survived very well, especially in the dive watch community, synonymous with horology Good French.

Yema, which specialized in the manufacturing of well-designed watches at affordable prices (the Gnomon philosophy), was founded by Mr. Belmont, who made the brand take off during the 1960s. Some of these do ring bells for collectors of vintage watches, such as the Flygraf pilot chronograph of the 1960s (air), the Rallygraf racing chronograph (land), and the Yachtingraf regatta chronograph (marine). Furthermore, let's not forget the only diver collection that carries the French mogul into his watchmaking legacy - the legendary Superman diver.

Today, we would like to introduce you to the last one that Yema brought back from her archives, especially from a specific French military history. Another vintage-inspired model that brings sea and air together is the reintroduction of a Superman collection from the 1970s, where they supplied Air Force and Dive Rescue pilots, and what we have here is - Yema Superman French Edition Limited Air Force 39mm Blackout.

Before we start, we want to show that Yema is really focused on its iconic diver creating a loyal tribute. They used 3D modeling on actual vintage Superman divers from that era during the early period of the design process.

L.E specifically is based on Ref. 1977 53.00.16. Basically, the diver is waterproof 300m, and the French Air Force edition is considered a live re-edition of the famous diver Superman. It fits perfectly into the 39mm steel case which features a straight tapered lug for greater watch appeal, while sizing just up to 48mm lug-to-lug distance and 13mm thick. As a full-black theme diver, Superman French Air Force gets a full-satin case with black PVD accents, along with a 60-minute steel bezel mark that draws attention to military specs. This flight diver honors historic Superman traits with original flight features.

The national emblem of the French Air Force is inscribed on the crown like the 60s and 70s models, Superman's most iconic design feature that sets it apart from the rest is the locking device for the bezel, located at 3 o'clock, between the bezel and crown.

As part of the engineering, after the time is set and the bezel is turned to the desired position, the knob then locks the bezel with a locking device by screwing it back. Simple but effective at preventing unnecessary movement of the bezel. And then there's the national emblem of the French Air Force stamped on the crown under the layer of crystal - a subtle nod to the friendship between the two entities.

The dial and handset are an ode to the past, even the exact same logo and secondhand “traffic-light shovel” style. Notably, the handset is crafted with black PVD for a "ghost" look, for which Yema gives them military camouflage coins. This set of hands is set in a matte black dial that holds Superman's gold hour markers in round and block shapes. This aesthetic is the hallmark of the Maison 70s divers. Everything has been implemented with a SuperLuminova that shines well in low light situations. All can be seen through the high domed sapphire crystal which gives it retro charm with cutting edge durability. In an effort to enhance the military theme, Yema has used a black date disc to display the date at 3 o'clock, while maintaining a sleek look.

The domed sapphire crystal exudes 70s vintage diver charm much simpler and sturdier for a military theme, the white markers, logos and text contrast neatly with the French Air Force logo printed in dark red. And inscribing the national emblem with a "dartboard" pattern at 6 o'clock that reflects the crown of one, has created a striking contrast to the matt black dial. On the back of the watch, the back of the 316L steel case proudly features the emblem of the French Air Force beautifully embossed with a hydraulic press. Each piece is engraved with a unique number from 0001 to 1948, marking it as a collector's version.

Yema doesn't stop at case design; they purposely remade the 19mm anti-corrosion 316L stainless steel band, in a matching PVD black finish with a satin brush finish. The sports bracelet has a signed clasp with diver extension to allow quick adjustment of the wetsuit. This accompaniment completes the whole package, and it's absolutely perfect. For this limited edition, the Yema provides the wearer with an additional black French Air Force strap to change things a bit. This unique canvas strap was chosen primarily for its rigidity in the most extreme conditions. The inside of the band is leather for excellent wearing comfort and is emblazoned with the French Air Force logo.

You will be surprised by the exquisite in-house move, the MBP1000, that powers the French Air Force Superman. This French automatic caliber is made with 31 rubies, operates at 28,800 BPH (3 Hertz), and has a power reserve of about 45 hours. Fully designed, developed and assembled at Yema's Morteau workshops in France, this self-winding movement is new to the humble French watchmaker and dramatically increases the value of the watch.

Limited to 1948 pieces, the French Air Force Superman is a faithful modern remake of what is a kind of hybrid watch that bridges the aviation and nautical genres. This blackout version is probably the coolest to date. Almost identical to the famous dive watch from the French brand, this special edition is imbued with many elements that exude military fervor, accentuating the watch into a highly legible and durable watch, bringing a set of vintage inspired cues from its past that lend it a touch of modern classics. .

Get your own Yema Superman French Air Force Blackout 39mm - Ltd Ed 1948pcs today on Gnomon store.

Yema Superman Heritage

Yema is a name born in 1948, coined by Henry Louis Belmont, who was a graduate of the National Watchmaking School of Besancon in 1931.The name has survived to the present day and has survived very well especially in the dive watch community, an identical name. with good French horology.

Yema, which specializes in the manufacturing of well-designed watches at fair prices (the Gnomon philosophy), was founded by Mr. Belmont, who made the brand take off during the 1960s. Some of them ring the bell for collectors vintage watches, twinkles, 1960s Flygraf pilot (aerial) chronographs, Rallygraf (land) racing chronographs and Yachtingraf (marine) regatta chronographs. Furthermore, don't forget the only diver collection that marks this French mogul into his watchmaking legacy - the legendary Superman diver.

We want to introduce you today to the last one Yema brought back from their archive. The brand is reintroducing the Superman collection and what we have here are vintage inspired models; Superman's Yema Legacy.

Before starting, we wanted to show that Yema is really focused on the brand's iconic divers creating a loyal tribute. They used 3D modeling on actual vintage Superman divers from that era during the early period of the design process.

Faithful to its predecessors, especially Ref. 53.00.16 from 1970, the Yema Superman heritage 300m water resistance is a live re-edition of the famous diver of 1963, with a true 39mm steel casing, featuring a straight tapered lug but keeping the original lug distance to lug distance. 48mm, and 13mm thick.

Much like the 1970s model, Superman's most iconic design feature that sets it apart from the rest is the locking device for the bezel, located at 3 o'clock, between the bezel and crown.

How does it work? It is a piece of engineering where after the timing and the bezel is turned to the desired position, the crown then locks the bezel with a locking device by replacing the crown screw. Simple but effective at preventing unnecessary movement of the bezel.

The dial and handset are an ode to the past with the same clock points, logos and down to the second hand "traffic-light" style. All of that is applied with a luminous glow that shines well in low light situations. All can be seen through the high domed sapphire crystal which gives it retro charm with cutting edge durability.

The domed sapphire crystal exudes 70s vintage diver charm

Yema doesn't stop at case design; they purposely remade the original 5-link steel bracelet with alternately brushed and polished surfaces. This accompaniment completes the whole package and is absolutely perfect.

The Yema Superman Heritage is powered by the Swiss Sellita SW200-1 automatic caliber, which has a 38 hour power reserve ticking at 28,800 bpd, allowing one to enjoy the seconds of a smooth sweep. All of this is thoroughly protected under a back case which is screwed securely.

Overall, with some major changes such as enhanced finish and case movement, Superman Heritage is a faithful new rework almost identical to the vintage edition. What's even more interesting is that we can see parallels between this re-edition and the vintage model at an honest price. Like the vintage models, they are both official wristwatches offering great value for those looking to venture beyond the usual suspects on the market.

Yema Superman Heritage is a worthy collection for those who enjoy a vintage touch in time piece. 

Yema Superman GMT

GMT fans rejoice! Yema has brought back their Superman GMT, now with more options and some notable changes. Last year, when they unveiled the first version of this watch, which took the Superman 300m dive bag with its iconic locking frame, added a GMT movement and a 24-hour bezel, it all sold out in an instant. Cool, stylish, and very limited, it's a formula for success. Well, we're very happy to say that they're back and available for pre-order at Windup Watch Shop with a new color, new case size, and a few other options.

The new Superman GMT comes in black, green or black / gray split bezels to avoid treading on the ends of last year's models, this time with sapphire inserts instead of aluminum inserts. A nice change, the sapphire bezel has an interesting sense of depth that makes it look like the plastic insert on a medieval watch, while providing additional scratch resistance. All dials have the same layout, but in a modern style, markers are now applied instead of imprinted on the bearings. Plus, each version is available in a classic 39mm or slightly upgraded 41mm case, with or without a bezel lock!

The new Yema Superman GMTs will be part of the Yema line from here on out, but the first 150 pieces per size will feature numbered case backs, giving them added collectibility. Let's start with a clean, jet black version of the bezel.

Most similar to the regular Superman, the black bezel adds GMT functionality and the 24 bezel, allowing tracking of up to three time zones. Unpretentious and mature, this is the version for those who like to keep it classic. Available in 39mm and 41mm.

Next, let's look at the green bezel insert. Fun and outdoor departure, the insert has an olive hue. With a combination of 300m water resistance and GMT function, it is a great choice for those looking for adventure and travel. Available in 39mm and 41mm.

Lastly, we have a black / gray bezel option. Smooth play on a mid-century two-tone bezel, this version combines iconic style with a modern attitude. The black / gray combination doesn't stand out in itself, but adds a unique dimension to the watch face as a whole. Great choice for those looking to celebrate Superman's legacy. Available in 39mm and 41mm.

Yema Superman GMT is available on Gnomon Store. Bring home one now!