I stumbled onto a French site called PassionChrono.com about 10 days ago, and saw a Yema that struck my fancy. I had researched this brand before, and apparently, Yema was the first French-made automatic (in the '60's if I'm not mistaken). They're probably best known for their 'Superman' diver.

Their prices were pretty reasonable, and the watches were all in very good condition; this one looked mint!

So I called the number in France. I don't know French, but the site owner who answered the phone spoke perfect English. He was willing to knock off a few Euros for me. I also saw on their site where if you 'like' them on FB, you'll get a additional 5% discount, so I bought it.

 

This one was much better in person than it was online. And quite a deal at well under $200!

 

You're on a roll Doug! Looks nice, and $200?! That's only like 50 Starbucks lattes!

 

This one has the France Ebauches (or Cupillard) 233-68 movement, a hand-wind from 1972, 18,000 bph, with a 55 hr power reserve!

Here's Ranfft's site on the movement:

http://www.ranfft.de/cgi-bin/bidfun-db.cgi?11&ranfft&&2uswk&Cupillard_233_68

 

Not my style but a nice, clean example. It's sometimes shocking how low prices are on less-popular brands that are still excellent watches.

I have a soft spot in my heart (head?) for Vostock watches for that reason.

Tom

 

Actually, I talked him down to $160.......

@oddboy , only 40 Starbucks Lattes!

 

Yes, I think Vostok is a good comparison. Apparently, like Vostok, they're using 'New Old Stock' for some of these, or at least, it appears so...

I'm rather amazed at the Ranfft stated PR on this one. I'll check this one to see if it's close...