The story
During the 1970s, Yema emerged as a prominent French watchmaker, renowned for its innovative designs and exceptional craftsmanship. Founded in 1948, the brand gained significant recognition in the 1970s for its pioneering contributions to both mechanical and quartz watch technology. This decade marked a period of bold experimentation, as Yema introduced a variety of models that combined functionality with distinctive style, appealing to both sports enthusiasts and fashion-forward consumers. Notably, the Yema Superman, a diver's watch, became iconic for its robust construction and water resistance, solidifying the brand's reputation in the competitive watch market.
This watch was donated to the Art for Heart charity sale in 2024 to raise money for heart operations for disadvantaged children.
The poor condition of the dial made it look older than perhaps it is, and was reminiscent of the early 20th century cafes and wine bars in Paris, especially around the artistic montmartre areas. Some of france's most famous artists during this period would have been regularly drinking absinthe, which became associated with France's art and literature scene. Absinthe is also regularly called 'The Green Fairy', so inspired by the atmosphere and aesthetic of artistic paris, this watch is decorated with a fairy dressed in green. The fairy is painted in a pose and dress of a 1970s pin-up to make it more contemporaneous with the watch itself.