Fergus Nash
Earlier this year, Yema signalled her intention to spice up her collection. Urban Field Release. and Wristmaster Traveler Micro Rotor After being a huge hit last year, it was only natural that the next venture would be the Yema Urban Traveller. While still following the retro vibe of the 1970s, the three new models modernize the look with soft summery dial hues and affordable prices.
Incident
The trend for watches with integrated bracelets seems even more popular now than it was back in the 1970s, and with modern design techniques, that can only be a good thing. The Yema Urban Traveler case is uncompromising in its geometric extremes, with a scalloped octagon framing the entire watch. Within its funky silhouette, gear-like stepped round portholes form a thick bezel, with polished steel edges sharpening the look of the brushed surface. Cut into the side of the case to create a guard is the crown, which, although not screwed down, is strong enough to ensure water resistance to 100m.
Wearability has always been a priority for Yema over the past few years, and they were one of the first brands to jump on the small case trend. With a diameter of 39mm and a lug-to-lug length of 43.5mm, it’s compact, but the protruding end links of the integrated bracelet make it a bit longer in effect. Overall, the watch suits wrists of all sizes well, and its 11.4mm thickness gives it a sturdy look and presence without being too bulky.
Dial
Yema’s definition of urban is undoubtedly linked to a casual nature, but it doesn’t prevent it from designing intricate dials. With a near-honeycomb pattern made up of various shapes, the highly textured dial surface appears cracked like a salt lake seen from above. It’s a style that can be enjoyed from afar, but is also worth a closer look. The three colors are soft, softening the harshness of the texture and giving off a cool, summery vibe. Pale blue is undoubtedly the most popular option, while the salmon color offers a kind of classy sophistication. The white dial is incredibly crisp and by far the most legible, with the bold black outlines of the hands and indexes.
These applied markers and baton hands are filled with BGW9 Super-LumiNova, a long-lasting luminous material that glows blue in the dark. The use of white (or black on white dials) for the second hand color cements these models as sports watches. The text on the dial is minimal, just the Yema logo and the word “automatique,” giving it a slightly vintage feel and focusing the focus on the dial pattern.
bracelet
Manufacturing techniques have come a long way since the 1970s, and while integrated bracelets can be a little less comfortable, they are much better quality. The Yema Urban Traveler’s sturdy steel links nest beautifully together, and are all brushed for a rugged, adventurous look. It is fitted with a butterfly clasp, so the sleek look is never compromised. The last link is engraved with the brand.
motion
Behind the Yema coat of arms engraved on the steel caseback lies the in-house caliber YEMA2000. For a brand of this size, being able to produce an in-house caliber is a big deal, and it’s one of the reasons this watch offers such great value for money. The YEMA2000 is its second generation, designed with simplicity and quality in mind. This no-date model runs at a smooth 4Hz frequency and has a power reserve of 42 hours with 29 jewels. It automatically winds in both directions with a rotating rotor, with an average daily deviation of +/- 10 seconds per day.
Yema Urban Traveler price and availability:
The Yema Urban Traveller is available for pre-order now, with the watch expected to ship from September 2023. Price: $890 USD
Brand Yema Model Urban Traveller Case Size 39mm x 43.5mm x 11.4mm Case Material Stainless Steel Water Resistance 100mm Crystal Sapphire Dial White, Blue, or Salmon Strap Integrated Steel Bezel Movement YEMA2000 Power Reserve 42 Hours Availability Available for pre-order now, shipping from September 2023. Price $890 USD
