The Timeless Elegance of YEMA's Wristmaster Slim CMM.20

by Brent Robillard

Stylish integrated bracelet sports watch

While YEMA’s fame, and subsequent comeback, may have been driven by the Superman dive watch and its many spinoffs and iterations, over the last few years, the watchmaker has proven that it is far from a one trick pony. The YEMA Wristmaster Slim drives this point home. The watch is an elegant blend of timeless design, modern functionality, and exceptional craftsmanship—demonstrating YEMA’s attention to detail and dedication to quality. The Wristmaster Slim CMM.20 offers both style and substance for watch enthusiasts looking for an integrated bracelet sports watch.

^{YEMA Wristmaster Slim 2.0 @calibre321}

What’s Happening in Morteau?

But before we get to the nitty gritty of the Wristmaster Slim, I’d like to step back and look at the brand’s trajectory from 2004—when it was sold by Hattori and eventually acquired by the Montres Ambre Group (2008). Since that point, YEMA has made significant strides in achieving vertical integration, a strategy aimed at enhancing the brand’s autonomy, quality control, and innovation in watchmaking. This approach involves bringing various aspects of the manufacturing process in-house, rather than outsourcing components and movements. Over the years, YEMA has progressively expanded its capabilities in designing, engineering, and producing key elements of its watches.

In-House Movement Development: CMM.20

One such move has been the construction of its own manufacture movements. While not its first, one of the most notable achievements is YEMA’s CMM.20 micro-rotor movement, featured in the Wristmaster Slim. Designed, developed, and assembled entirely in YEMA’s workshop in Morteau, France, this calibre showcases the brand’s ability to produce high-precision, innovative movements. The micro-rotor design is particularly impressive, as it requires specialized engineering expertise to achieve its slim profile without compromising reliability or power reserve.

The Calibre Manufacture Morteau 20 is a mere 3.7mm in thickness and runs at a smooth 28 800vph while offering up a considerable 70-hour power reserve. It is incredibly stable, due in part to the placement of the balance spring under a full bridge. It is regulated in-house to near-COSC specifications of -3/+7 seconds/day.

Case and Dial Production

YEMA has also focused on bringing the production of watch cases and dials closer to home. While some elements are still sourced externally, the design, prototyping, and finishing of these components are managed by the brand. This control ensures that each watch meets YEMA’s exacting standards and aligns with their signature style.

French Heritage and Sustainability

YEMA’s efforts toward vertical integration are deeply tied to their dedication to preserving French watchmaking traditions. By investing in in-house expertise, they support local craftsmanship and ensure that their watches embody the artisanal heritage for which France is known. Additionally, their control over production processes allows them to prioritize sustainable practices, such as using environmentally friendly materials and minimizing waste during manufacturing.

Key Features of the Wristmaster Slim CMM.20

Case Dimensions and Finishing

While the Wristermaster Collection draws inspiration from two of YEMA’s heritage models in the construction of its octagonal case and unique bezel, the watch remains very much contemporary. At a sleek 39mm diameter with a 43.5mm lug to lug and a thin 9mm profile, the Wristmaster Slim is a wonderfully versatile timepiece that sits comfortably on the wrist. The stainless steel case features subtly brushed finishing on the sides, which beautifully contrasts with the mirror-polished chamfers and bezel beveling. This time around the right side of the case is shaper and the bezel contouring next to the sapphire crystal has become more refined. The case then flows gracefully into the bracelet, completing the overall streamlined aesthetic. These finishing touches lend a sophisticated yet understated look, suitable for both casual and formal settings.

Dial Layout and Texture

The dial is a standout feature, effortlessly blending vintage-inspired design with a modern flair. Available in a range of tasteful colour options, the new dial boasts a unique and subtle texturing, creating a dynamic sense of depth. When viewed up close on the blue-dialed reference featured here, you can see the gentle variations in the grooved surface. These appear like ripples in a calm sea. The minimalist layout features applied hour markers in the form of slender batons, and polished sword hands accented with lume, ensuring excellent legibility without disrupting the clean design. There is a single Arabic numeral in the 12 position.

Stainless Steel Bracelet and Micro-Adjusting Clasp

YEMA equips the Wristmaster Slim with a high-quality stainless steel bracelet that feels robust and premium to the touch. The bracelet’s brushed links match the finishing of the case sides, while polished accents add a hint of refinement along the edges. The standout feature is the micro-adjusting clasp, which allows for quick and precise adjustments, ensuring maximum comfort throughout the day. This thoughtful detail makes the watch feel bespoke, catering to a variety of wrist sizes with ease. What I like most about it is the fact that the adjustment occurs on either side of the butterfly mechanism. This provides more flexibility. It can also be activated without removing the watch. Even better, the placement of the comfort adjusting links occur overtop of the deployant hardware, camouflaging the gap.

The Calibre CMM.20 Micro-Rotor Movement

As outlined earlier, the real highlight of the Wristmaster Slim is the CMM.20 micro-rotor movement. It’s this innovative addition that allows for the watch’s slender profile while delivering reliable performance. The micro-rotor design is not only efficient but also visually stunning, visible through the sapphire case back. It’s a treat for those who appreciate horological artistry.

^{Dress it up or dress it down @calibre321}

Specs

Case	316L Stainless Steel 39mm Diameter 45.3mm Lug-to-lug 9mm Thickness Integrated Bracelet Screw down case back 100m of Water Resistance
Dial & Crystal	Sapphire Crystal Textured Dial Applied Markers Sword Hands Super-LumiNova
Movement	CMM.20 Micro Rotor -3/+7 Seconds/Day 33 Jewels 28 800vph 70-Hour Power reserve
Strap	Stainless Steel /w Comfort Adjusting Clasp

YEMA Wristmaster Slim CMM.20

Final Thoughts

The YEMA Wristmaster Slim CMM2.0 is a modern classic, ideal for collectors and first-time buyers alike. Its possesses refined case finishing and an intricate and visually stunning dial. The bracelet is versatile with a thoughtful clasp design. And the in-house micro-rotor movement is impressive. All of these points make the new Wristmaster a compelling choice in the luxury watch market. In addition, it offers exceptional value for those seeking a sports watch with dressy appeal. It’s also a proposition that doesn’t compromise on technical innovation or aesthetics.

Pricing & Availability

The YEMA Wristmaster Slim CMM.20 retails for $2249USD (approx. $3200CAD). For more details, or to place and order, please visit the brand website. YEMA assembles and regulates the watch upon demand with an 8-day lead in period.

About the author

Brent Robillard is a writer, educator, craftsman, and watch enthusiast. He is the author of four novels. You can follow him on Instagram.

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