Yema is a relatively low key brand in the world of watches, although they’ve been around since 1948 they’ve gone through a series of ownership changes with the most recent notable acquisition by French group Montres Ambre in 2009. Today we have the pleasure to handle and review their new and stunning Superman Slim, a variant of their classic Superman model that has now been slimmed down, redesigned, and fitted with their in-house caliber CMM.20 well known for its use of a micro-rotor.
Design Updates and Improvements
Their modern Superman range of watches are actually re-issues from their 1969 offerings, they were originally designed as functional dive watches with an impressive water resistance rating of 300 meters for their era. The Superman from 1963 had a very distinct look to it, not only was the dial highly unique with its large triangular markers but the case shape always had a very slender appearance with sharp lugs. One of its main differentiating features still remains today on the modern variant, which is the bezel locking device that you’ll notice adjacent to the crown – of course used by professional divers to ensure the timing bezel is not accidentally moved.
As time went on the Superman went through various updates, and you’ll notice on this current Slim version that the dial has reverted to something reminiscent of a vintage submariner with the round markers. Personally I think Yema should have stayed with the original markers from 1963 to retain their distinct identity instead of piggybacking on the Submariner trend – but this is literally my only gripe with the watch.
Beyond the obvious aesthetic looks of the dial, the massive upgrade to the Superman Slim that we have here today is the reduction in thickness. The watch has been slimmed down by a full 1mm, which is very significant for any type of watch, let alone a sporty dive watch like this. How was this accomplished you may ask? Yema simply retrofitted the Superman with their in-house CMM.20 that was able to be manufactured extra slim due to the use of a micro rotor, in return this allowed Yema to create a slimmer case.
Besides the updates to the case and overall size and dimensions, some light modifications were also implemented on the hands, with the use of polished steel and by swapping out the “shovel” style seconds hand for the original “baton” style from the first 1963 Superman. The dial itself is now also made from a lacquered enamel which provides a gorgeous sheen and depth to the dial.
Fit on Wrist
All of the updates mentioned above translate into a rather unique and inspiring fit on wrist. As someone who reviews and handles watches on a daily basis, it’s rare to come by a modern watch such as this one with its calculated refinements. Many smaller brands these days tend to employ the use of interchangeable movements which unfortunately limits their creativity when it comes to the rest of the watch. That’s very much not the case here with the Superman Slim that truly wears like a “one of a kind” due to the attention given to its proportions, curves, and as I sit here with it on wrist – its retro domed crystal.
The watch, with a 39mm case size, unsurprisingly is an excellent fit on my small 6.5 inch wrist, and it draws a presence not due to size or shimmer, but due to its 1963 appearance that maybe only die-hard enthusiasts would pickup on. The swooping sides of the case gracefully integrate into the tapered bracelet, and as I gaze down to it, the swoop on the side of the case is very accentuated, more so than you’d normally find on any dive watch. This swoop alongside the case is definitely emphasized due to the pronounced crown guards which again flow perfectly together, unlike some crown guards that are squared off at the end.
While this is certainly a dive watch, Yema’s goal was really to create a classy dive watch that can be worn with more formal attire and they’ve definitely achieved that goal.
The Caliber CMM.20
Just to touch on the Yema in-house movement here, this movement is quite the feat of engineering. Not only has it been created extra slim, but it looks amazing with the black finish due to their use of their ALD aka “Atomic Layer Deposition”. When I think of it now, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a movement with this type of matte dark decorative finish on it, and I love it.
The movement is viewable from the display back of the watch, and you’ll notice how clean and organized it appears. Many movements, while impressive, look very complicated and busy just like on the Seagull 1963 I reviewed here. The CMM.20 is clean and slick looking with graceful bridging and some color with the exposed jewels and tungsten micro-rotor. If you want to dive deeper into the specific components used within this movements, and I recommend you do, just visit Yema’s page here with all the details on the CMM.20.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I’m very impressed with the Yema Superman Slim, and I think at its $2490.00 USD price tag it provides excellent value. Not only are you getting a watch with interesting heritage but you’re now getting a watch that has gone through decades of improvements. This is a modern gentleman’s diver with a Swiss and French background, and I highly recommend you check it out should you get the opportunity.
For more information visit the official Yema website here.
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