Yema Skin Diver Slim Bronze CMM.20 Review

Yema is one of the most interesting French brands deserving close attention today.

Its history is not tied to the traditional classics of wristwatches but revolves around functional tools. Founded in 1948 by Henri-Louis Belmont, a graduate of the National School of Watchmaking in Besançon, the company grew in the post-war era with a reputation as a manufacturer of pragmatic and sporty watches. Yema initially focused on creating watches for diving, sailing, motorsports, and even space missions.

Historical Specifics and Unique Features of the Brand

Yema's identity as a producer of tool watches is supported by a number of unique technical solutions. In 1967, the company patented a bezel-locking mechanism for its Superman model - an early solution aimed at preventing accidental movement of the rotating ring underwater. Decades later, Yema made history in European space watches: in 1982, French astronaut Jean-Loup Chrétien wore the Spationaute I model, which the brand positions as the first Western European watch to go into space. These facts confirm that Yema watches were created not only for appearance but also to perform specific tasks.

Modern Interpretation of Classic: Skin Diver Slim Bronze CMM.20

The new Skin Diver Slim Bronze CMM.20 model is a modern reinterpretation of 1960s dive watches with contemporary technical solutions. The main feature is the in-house caliber with a micro-rotor CMM.20, which allows the case to remain thin while providing all the characteristics of a true dive watch. The case is made of bronze with a diameter of 39 mm, a rare combination of compactness and functionality. The "skin diver" category is traditionally associated with small sizes and wearing comfort, and the use of a micro-rotor is one of the effective ways to maintain automatic winding with minimal movement thickness.

Case: Bronze and Ergonomics

The case is made of bronze, with a diameter of 39 mm, a thickness of 10 mm, and a lug-to-lug distance of 47 mm. The lug width is 20 mm, and they are curved for a comfortable fit on the wrist. The finish is mainly matte with polished chamfers, giving the case expressiveness. The crown is not protected by additional elements and does not have a lock.

Bronze is a material that acquires a unique patina over time due to exposure to air, moisture, and everyday use. The appearance changes from a warm and maritime shade to a darker and mottled one, making each piece unique. This choice of material pairs well with the history of 1960s dive watches, imparting romance and character. At the same time, the model remains a serious waterproof tool with a depth protection of up to 300 meters and a screw-down crown.

The bezel deserves special attention - it is unidirectional and entirely made of sapphire. The "faded ghost" effect, as Yema calls it, creates the impression that the watch has already traveled a long path.

Dial: Readability and Design

The dial is available in two options: green and gray (the latter being a limited edition of 200 pieces). The design is aimed at maximum readability and clarity. Large triangular hour markers, complemented by Arabic numerals, visually fill the space without creating a sense of emptiness even on a 39 mm diameter. The hands are in the style of tool watches: the minute hand is arrow-shaped for quick reading, the hour hand is a long "pencil," and the second hand has a "ball" at the end for easy movement check.

The markers and hands have a gold-plated contour and are filled with Super-LumiNova luminous material. The base of the dial is an enameled matte surface in dark gray.

Movement: Caliber CMM.20 with Micro-Rotor

Through the transparent sapphire case back, you can see the Manufacture Morteau 20 (CMM.20) caliber - an in-house movement with a micro-rotor, developed in Switzerland and refined in Yema's workshops in Morteau, France. The micro-rotor ensures a thin construction with a thickness of only 3.70 mm, allowing the overall case thickness to remain at 10 mm - a rare achievement for dive watches with automatic winding.

The movement has a power reserve of up to 70 hours thanks to the tungsten micro-rotor and large barrel. The timekeeping accuracy is stated in the range of -3 to +7 seconds per day, which is close to chronometer level.

Strap: Practicality and Style

The finishing element is an FKM rubber strap, matched to the dial's color. Its surface is adorned with a honeycomb pattern, visually balancing the warm bronze hue with a modern and restrained style.

Conclusion: Combining Classic and Innovation

For collectors who appreciate watches that change with the owner, the Skin Diver Slim Bronze CMM.20 represents a successful combination of vintage proportions and modern technologies. The appearance harks back to classic 1960s skin divers, while inside, an innovative micro-rotor movement is installed, and the bronze case gains a unique patina over the years, reflecting the owner's individuality.

Technical Specifications Yema Skin Diver Slim Bronze CMM.20