by Brent Robillard
The power of patina
Every time I receive a bronze watch in for review—particularly a dive watch—I am reminded just how satisfying the material can be. Unlike stainless steel or titanium, it refuses to remain unchanged. It records the passing of time, slowly developing a patina that reflects the places it has been and the conditions it has endured. For a dive watch with genuine vintage inspiration, few materials feel more appropriate.
With the latest additions to the Superman Bronze CMM.10 collection, YEMA has refined an already compelling formula. Three new dial colours—green, white, and a particularly handsome light brown—join the existing lineup, bringing the collection to six references in total. Having spent time with the green model fitted to its matching FKM Tropic-style strap, one thing became immediately apparent: these latest versions feel more mature, more detailed, and more luxurious than their predecessors.
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Key Features of the YEMA Superman Bronze CMM1.0
Bronze
The first surprise comes from the bronze itself. Many bronze watches lean toward the darker, copper-rich appearance associated with CuSn8 alloys. YEMA’s bronze, by contrast, has a distinctly warmer, almost golden tone that recalls aluminium bronze more than traditional marine bronze. The company has not publicly disclosed the exact alloy composition, so any comparison remains speculative, but the visual impression is striking. Fresh from the box, the case almost resembles brushed yellow gold—though even after a few days exposure begins to develop the richer patina that bronze enthusiasts appreciate.
That brighter finish pairs exceptionally well with the new dials, particularly the light brown version, which may ultimately prove to be the standout of the collection. The green model reviewed here, however, offers plenty of vintage charm of its own.
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Dial
Rather than relying on printed graphics or simple applied plots, YEMA has elevated the dial with gilt-finished applied indices alongside raised appliques for both the YEMA wordmark and the stylized “Y.” Combined with the glossy lacquered dial surface, the result creates considerably more visual depth than the earlier Superman Bronze models. Light plays across the gilt elements throughout the day, constantly changing the personality of the watch.
The attention to detail continues after dark. Grade A Super-LumiNova is generously applied to the hands and indices, producing excellent nighttime legibility. Just as importantly for a professional dive watch, the triangular pip within the bronze bezel is also luminescent. It may sound like a small detail, but it transforms the bezel from a decorative vintage flourish into a genuinely useful timing instrument in low-light conditions.
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Case
The 39 mm bronze case continues to be one of the Superman’s greatest strengths. Its 48mm lug-to-lug measurement and compact, slim 10.95 mm profile, coupled with sharply executed brushing and polished chamfers make it exceptionally wearable while preserving the purposeful character that has defined the Superman since the 1960s. The signature bezel-lock mechanism remains one of the model’s most distinctive design features, giving the watch an identity that is unmistakably YEMA.
CMM1.0
Turning the watch over reveals another highlight. The exhibition caseback provides an unobstructed view of the in-house CMM.10 calibre. Although the prototype photographed here carries an individually numbered caseback, the production model is not a limited edition. Instead, every owner receives the same satisfying view of a movement that represents one of YEMA’s most impressive recent achievements.
Developed and assembled in the brand’s Morteau workshops, the CMM.10 delivers chronometric performance rated between -3/+5 seconds per day, a healthy 70-hour power reserve, and architecture designed to improve shock and magnetic resistance. More importantly for everyday wear, it has proven itself to be a reliable and thoroughly modern movement that comfortably competes well above its price category.
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Strap
The supplied FKM Tropic-style strap deserves particular praise. Many modern interpretations successfully imitate the appearance of the classic Tropic design but fail to capture its flexibility. This is not one of them. The rubber is remarkably supple, with none of the stiffness often associated with FKM compounds. Having owned original vintage Tropic straps (two at the moment), this modern execution feels remarkably authentic while offering the durability expected from contemporary materials. The fit against the case is equally impressive, with tight tolerances that give the watch the appearance of an integrated design.
Specs
| Case | Bronze 39mm Diameter 48mm Lug to Lug 10.95mm Thickness (w/out crystal) 19mm Lug Width Sapphire Caseback Screw Down Crown & Caseback Bezel Lock System 300m Water Resistance |
| Dial & Crystal | Boxed Sapphire Crystal Glossy Dial Gilt Applied Markers Big Arrow and Pencil Handset Super-LumiNova |
| Movement | CMM.10 -3/+5 Seconds/Day 27 Jewels 28 800vph 70-Hour Power reserve |
| Strap | FKM Rubber with Bronze Hardware |
YEMA Superman Bronze CMM.10
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Unexpected endorsement
One unexpected endorsement came shortly after the watch arrived. After placing it on the studio table following the photo session, it disappeared within minutes. The culprit turned out to be my son, who had subversively fastened it to his wrist and had no intention of giving it back anytime soon. That may be one of the strongest unsolicited recommendations a watch around here can receive.
Final Thoughts
With six dial options now available, there is only one feature left on the wish list. The warm tone of YEMA’s bronze would make an exceptional matching bracelet. While the tropic-style strap suits the Superman perfectly, a properly executed bronze bracelet would transform the watch yet again, allowing owners to embrace the full character of the material as it develops its own unique patina over the years.
The Superman Bronze CMM.10 was already among the more distinctive bronze dive watches on the market. These new references refine nearly every visible aspect of the watch without altering the qualities that made the collection successful in the first place. The improved dial execution, beautifully judged bronze finish, excellent in-house movement, and outstanding strap combine to create what feels like the strongest Superman Bronze yet. For enthusiasts seeking a vintage-inspired diver with genuine personality, this latest generation is well worth a closer look.
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Pricing & Availibility
You can purchase the YEMA Superman Bronze CMM1.0 directly from the brand website for $1899 USD (approx. $2800 CAD).
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Check out The Ultimate Watch Buying Guide
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.
Other Watchy Bits include op-ed pieces and articles of general interest. We’d love to hear your opinion in the comments section below.
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| Bronze 39mm Diameter 47mm Lug to Lug 10mm Thickness (w/out crystal) 20mm Lug Width Sapphire Caseback Screw Down Crown 300m Water Resistance | |
| Dial & Crystal | Boxed Sapphire Crystal Enamel Dial Gilt Surrounds Big Arrow and Pencil Handset Super-LumiNova |
| Movement | CMM.20 Micro Rotor -3/+7 Seconds/Day 33 Jewels 28 800vph 70-Hour Power reserve |
| Strap | FKM Rubber with Bronze Hardware |