The Yema Superman 500 Watch

A contemporary evolution of the popular 1960s dive watch.

Introduced by French brand Yema in the early 1960s, the Superman dive watch quickly became a success story for the company. Now, Yema has announced a new model that marks the natural evolution of the original design. Improved and revamped, the timepiece nevertheless keeps the classic good-looks of its predecessor. Superman 500 features a modernized architecture as well as various technical improvements. The watch comes with a redesigned bezel-lock, bezel, and crown. New micro-drilling in specific locations allows the user to rotate the bezel with precision. Likewise, the winding crown’s mechanism features modifications that ensure a smoother and more convenient operation. Even with the crown unscrewed, the watch has a 3 bar water resistance, which ensures the user can safely rotate the bezel on the water surface before plunging into a dive.

The watch also comes with a double domed sapphire crystal that not only increases water-resistance but also ensures optimal readability. The sapphire crystal is slightly wider and lower, but boasts the same thickness for that vintage-style magnifying effect. To achieve the 50 ATM water resistance, Yema designed a thicker stainless steel case. Inside, there’s the brand’s in-house, second generation YEMA2000 “No-Date” movement that better withstands shocks and vibrations. With the date removed, the dial is cleaner and more elegant.

Other features include Super-LumiNova Grade A finishes on the markers, hands, and bezel for optimal readability in poor visibility conditions; the brand’s historic crest embossed on the case; and a selection of straps that range from a stainless steel bracelet to a custom rubber Viton® band or a leather strap. Available in 39mm and 41mm, the Yema Superman 500 Watch comes with a black dial or dark blue dial, with the first 200 watches also featuring a unique number. Prices range between $1,049 and $1,219. Photographs © Yema.