Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a vintage-modern automatic sports watch produced by the storied French brand Yema during the era it was owned by Seiko. The case houses a compact Seiko caliber 4205 automatic movement set within a plastic retaining spacer, fronted by a textured concentric-guilloché style dial with applied stylized Arabic numerals.
Story
Founded in Besançon in 1948, Yema was bought by Seiko in 1988, creating a fascinating fusion of classic French design housing robust Japanese mechanical workhorse movements like this caliber 4205.
Maker / Origin
Yema was established by Henry Louis Belmont in 1948 and quickly became an icon of French horology, renowned for legendary models like the Superman dive watch and the Rallygraf worn by Mario Andretti. During the late 1980s through mid-2000s, the company was managed under the Seiko Watch Corporation before returning to independent French ownership.
Condition & Value
Fair to good vintage pre-owned condition. The crystal and polished bezel show heavy surface scratching and wear consistent with daily use; the caseback exhibits tool marks and scuffing. Missing original strap or bracelet. Condition wear reduces collector value by roughly 30–40%.
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.