This French Company Is Making Badass Watches for Air Force Pilots

After French brand Yema brought back its classic Superman watch in 2018, it’s become the company’s flagship model and blossomed into a broader collection. The latest addition celebrates Yema’s partnership with the French Air Force with new models designed to “meet the requirements of their diver rescuers and fighter pilots” — and, yes, you civilians can get one too.

The new Superman watches come in stainless steel cases in a couple of variations. The limited-edition models have an automatic movement and a choice of 39mm or 41mm case sizes, whereas the non-limited version is quartz and only available in 39mm. With steel bracelets and 200m water-resistant cases, both the limited and non-limited versions offer the choice of bare steel (with steel bezel) or a black PVD finish.

A monochromatic and legible design gives each version an appropriately serious and practical feel. However, there’s a touch of color provided by the French Air Force insignia, which is a red-white-and-blue circle found on the dial as the 6 o’clock marker that’s also visible on the crown behind a crystal coating. Nothing is more desirable for a watch brand than a legitimate military association, and Yema indeed has an actual history of working with French military agencies.

The limited edition automatic models have a price of $999 in steel or $1,199 in black PVD and are limited to 1,948 examples. The non limited quartz models cost $499 in steel or $549 with the black treatment. They’re available now directly from the brand.