On November 10, 2023, Yema will launch its Kickstarter campaign for the new Superman Bronze CMM.10 Limited Edition. I had the opportunity to check out both versions, blue and black, at the recent Wind-up watch fair in New York, and I am pleased to report that the watches are every bit as exciting in person as they appear in photos.
The Superman has long been central to Yema’s collection. It’s an attractive tool watch with sensible proportions, deep water capability, and its iconic crown-actuated bezel lock. The Limited Edition has the same attributes and aesthetics as others in the line (its biggest departure is the lollipop second hand). Indeed, it is not even the first Superman to employ a bronze case. The real action lies inside, with Yema’s CMM.10 movement.
Developed by Yema and manufactured in its Morteau, France workshop, the CMM.10 utilizes unique main plate architecture, high magnetic field resistance, and a large barrel to deliver an impressive 70-hour power reserve and accuracy of -3/+5 seconds per day without compromising its smooth 28.8k bph vibration rate. You can get a good look at it through the sapphire exhibition window.
Outside, the new model is every bit as attractive as you would hope. A polished chamfer on the upper edge enlivens the business like brushing elsewhere. In profile, a delicate arch from lug-to-lug draws your eye away from the central barrel, making the already svelte 10.7mm case appear even slimmer. Rising above it, is a 2.2mm tall, double-domed sapphire crystal, for a proper 60s look with modern scratch protection.
Yema will offer the Superman Bronze CMM.10 Limited Edition in 39mm and 41mm cases, and with gradient blue or lacquered black dials. All will come on Yema’s excellent FKM Viton tropic-style strap with a signed bronze buckle. Only 1,948 of each variant will be produced.
When I tried them on at the show, the Yema representative asked which was my favorite. I think the 39mm would be the right fit for my small wrist, but I could not choose between the two colors as each has a very different character. The black dial has an inky depth that allows the gold hands and tan C3 lume to stand proud. This effect will no doubt be highlighted as the patina process takes hold and darkens the bronze case, making this version look like a true ocean workhorse.
The gradient blue, on the other hand, allows similar contrast but displays more complexity as the color shifts from light to dark. There are a handful of bronze watches in my collection that I keep free of patina, preferring to let the original mellow gold color shine while allowing it to darken only in its recesses. This would be one of them
Whichever you prefer, the CMM.10 LE will cost €999 for pre-order, a significant advantage over its eventual €1,790 MSRP. You can expect delivery in March-April of 2024. Visit the Yema Superman Bronze CMM.10 Limited Edition Kickstarter page for more information and launch announcements.
All photos courtesy of Yema
