French brand YEMA has reissued its futuristic YEMA LED, which was originally introduced in the 1970s. This was an era in which a radical shift was taking place in the watchmaking industry with the arrival of quartz and electronics technology. YEMA has committed to staying true to the original concept of this watch, and there is no mistaking it for a modern interpretation of any kind. The octagonal case features two slabs of brushed steel framing a horizontal LED screen complete with red tint. That screen remains blank until summoned by a press of the button at the 3 o’clock position, meaning there is simply nothing on display during normal wear. In essence, the time function is relegated to secondary status, while the focus is on the design of the case and bracelet.
The YEMA LED watch case measures a refined 37.5 mm by 10.5 mm, with a 42.50 mm lug-to-lug. With a stainless steel (or stainless steel with gold plating) bracelet, the timepiece measures 20 mm at the lugs, and has a unique adjustable sliding clasp that fits most wrists. A mineral crystal protects the red LED display with a stainless steel screw-down caseback. Water-resistance is rated to 100 meters. The YEMA LED reissue perfectly captures the 1970’s retro style while being functional and stylish.