For those who cherish aviation history and the tool watches that accompanied mankind's conquest of the skies, the
Yema Flygraf Flieger French Air Force watch deserves a closer look. This recently released timepiece is more than just a wristwatch; it's a culmination of decades of experience in crafting pilot's watches, and a testament to a fruitful partnership between a prestigious watchmaker and a legendary air force.
The YEMA brand itself boasts a rich heritage, dating back to 1948 in the Swiss Jura mountains. Throughout the years, YEMA has earned acclaim for its innovative timepieces, particularly sports watches and divers. The brand's motto, "#TimeofHeroes," speaks volumes about its commitment to creating watches that can withstand the most demanding situations. It's no surprise, then, that the French Air Force turned to YEMA for their timekeeping needs.
Courtesy of YEMA
The collaboration between YEMA and the French Air Force began in the 1970s. YEMA supplied the French Air Force with the Superman, a robust dive watch that proved its mettle in the unforgiving environment of special operations. The Flygraf Flieger French Air Force watch is the latest chapter in this ongoing partnership.
The Flygraf Flieger French Air Force draws inspiration from the Flieger Type A watches, a category of pilot's watches renowned for their legibility and functionality. These watches were developed in the 1930s by Germany's Ministry of Aviation (Reichsluftfahrtministerium or RLM) and were issued to pilots in the Luftwaffe. The core design principles of Flieger Type A watches – clarity, reliability, and night readability – are faithfully replicated in the YEMA Flygraf Flieger French Air Force.
From a visual standpoint, the watch is a study in utilitarian elegance. The 40mm Grade 2 titanium case is not only lightweight but also exceptionally resistant to corrosion. The sandblasted matte finish on the case gives it a distinctly military look, while the 2.00 mm double-dome sapphire crystal offers superior scratch resistance and enhanced readability.
The watch's dial exemplifies the design philosophy of pilot's watches. It features a matte black finish with bold Arabic numerals and a clear minute track, ensuring exceptional legibility even in low-light conditions. The luminescent hands and hour markers, coated with Grade A Super-LumiNova BGW9, provide excellent lume ensuring readability in the dark. The iconic triangular marker at 12 o'clock, a signature feature of Flieger watches, adds a touch of classic pilot watch flair. A discreet date window sits at 6 o'clock, maintaining the overall clean and uncluttered aesthetic of the dial.
Courtesy of YEMA
We will delve deeper into the technical specifications of the YEMA Flygraf Flieger French Air Force watch in the second part of this article. For now, let's talk about some of the intriguing features that this watch offers.
The watch is powered by the YEMA 2000, the brand's in-house caliber. This automatic movement boasts a 42-hour power reserve and offers an accuracy of +/- 10 seconds per day. The 316L stainless steel caseback features the French Air Force logo, a subtle nod to the timepiece's military pedigree.
The watch comes fitted with a comfortable canvas strap, manufactured in France's Franche-Comté region. The strap features the French Air Force logo discreetly placed on its underside, adding a touch of exclusivity for aviation enthusiasts.
The YEMA Flygraf Flieger French Air Force watch is more than just a timepiece; it's a tangible representation of YEMA's dedication to producing pilot watches that excel in both form and function. This watch embodies the spirit of exploration and precision, qualities that both aviators and watch aficionados hold dear.
Housed within the titanium case of the Flygraf Flieger French Air Force is YEMA's in-house caliber, the YEMA2000. This automatic movement signifies YEMA's commitment to self-reliance and underscores their dedication to producing high-quality timepieces. Developing an in-house caliber is a significant undertaking for any watch manufacturer, and it speaks volumes about the brand's technical prowess.
Courtesy of YEMA
The YEMA2000 boasts a 42-hour power reserve, meaning you can confidently take off your watch on Friday night and pick it up again on Monday morning without it losing a beat. The operating frequency of the movement is 28,800 A/h (or 4 Hz), resulting in a smooth sweep of the seconds hand. The accuracy of the YEMA2000 is rated at +/- 10 seconds per day, which falls within the acceptable range for an automatic watch at this price point.
Designed to withstand the rigors of aerial combat, the Flygraf Flieger French Air Force is crafted with ruggedness in mind. The Grade 2 titanium used for the case provides exceptional strength and lightness, making this a remarkably comfortable watch to wear for extended periods. Titanium is also renowned for its hypoallergenic properties, ensuring that the watch won't irritate your skin.
The watch's double-dome sapphire crystal offers superior scratch resistance, while its shape lends a touch of vintage charm. Sapphire is one of the hardest materials used in watchmaking, making it ideal for a tool watch like this one.
The Flygraf Flieger French Air Force excels in functionality, thanks to a few key design choices. The slightly oversized crown is a hallmark of Flieger watches. This feature is designed with pilots in mind, allowing them to adjust the time easily without removing their gloves. The watch's 100-meter water resistance rating makes it suitable for everyday wear, offering the peace of mind that it can handle splashes, rain, and even light swimming.
Courtesy of YEMA
The canvas strap provides a comfortable and secure fit on the wrist. Canvas is a popular choice for military watches because of its durability and quick-drying characteristics. The inclusion of the French Air Force logo on the strap's underside adds a layer of exclusivity and reinforces the watch's military credentials.
The YEMA Flygraf Flieger French Air Force manages to be both visually appealing and highly functional. The no-nonsense matte black dial design is a textbook example of utilitarian aesthetics. The large Arabic numerals and thick hands provide superior legibility, allowing pilots to quickly and accurately read the time at a glance. The absence of any unnecessary embellishments ensures that nothing distracts from the core purpose of the watch: to tell the time efficiently.
From another perspective, the Flygraf Flieger French Air Force embodies an understated cool factor. The military-inspired design and sandblasted titanium case give the watch a raw, industrial vibe. The subdued color scheme makes the watch incredibly versatile and ensures that it will complement a wide range of outfits.
So, who is this watch for exactly? Let's explore a few scenarios:
The Aviation Enthusiast: If you share a passion for all things aeronautical, the Flygraf Flieger French Air Force will resonate with you. This watch pays homage to the classic pilot's watches of the past, and its military lineage adds to its appeal.
The Practical Collector: For those who appreciate functional and reliable watches, the Flygraf Flieger French Air Force checks all the boxes. Its in-house movement, robust construction, and excellent legibility make it a reliable companion for everyday wear.
The Adventurer: If your idea of a good time involves outdoor adventures, the Flygraf Flieger French Air Force can be your trusty sidekick. Its scratch-resistant crystal, water resistance, and durable strap make it suitable for a variety of outdoor activities.
Courtesy of YEMA
Anyone Looking for a Unique Timepiece: The Flygraf Flieger French Air Force sets itself apart with its distinctive military look and in-house movement. It's a great option if you're looking for something different from the mainstream luxury watch brands.
The YEMA Flygraf Flieger French Air Force is not just a watch; it's a symbol of a rich history of collaboration between a legendary watchmaker and a distinguished air force. It's a testament to YEMA's commitment to innovation and functionality. If you're searching for a watch that encapsulates the spirit of aviation and embodies superior craftsmanship, then the YEMA Flygraf Flieger French Air Force is definitely worth your consideration.