Yema watch: Flygraf bi-compax AAE black

An aviation chronograph that cultivates its character

A matte black dial, two aligned sub-dials, and the emblems of the French Air and Space Force: the Yema Flygraf bi-compax AAE black, reference YMHF1582AA-AA, immediately makes its world known. Developed in collaboration with the AAE, it combines an assertive aeronautical identity with a retro aesthetic. The beige markers warm up the dial, while the matte white chronograph hands emphasize its instrumental purpose.

Its appeal also lies in its proportions. With a 40 mm brushed 316L steel case and a thickness of 9.50 mm, the Flygraf bi-compax maintains a measured size for a chronograph. The double-domed hesalite crystal accentuates its vintage look. The hands and indices treated with Super-LumiNova extend this quest for legibility when the light fades.

Inside, the Seiko VK61 meca-quartz caliber brings together two approaches: quartz provides the time display, while a mechanical module controls the chronograph. This results in a central timing hand with smooth movement. The 60-minute counter at 12 o'clock measures durations, while the small seconds at 6 o'clock indicates the watch's ongoing operation. This vertical layout gives the dial an immediately recognizable personality.

The black canvas strap with leather lining, crafted in the Franche-Comté region, extends this relaxed spirit. The oversized crown, its AAE emblem, and the decorated case back highlight the collaboration down to the smallest details. Assembled in Yema's French workshops and water-resistant to 100 meters, the Flygraf bi-compax is aimed at enthusiasts who wish to find the codes of an aviation watch in a chronograph that is easy to incorporate into their daily life.

Technical characteristics

• Brand: Yema
• Collection: Flygraf
• Model: Flygraf bi-compax AAE black
• Reference: YMHF1582AA-AA
• Movement: Seiko VK61 meca-quartz, quartz time display and mechanical chronograph module
• Functions: hours, minutes, small seconds, and chronograph with central second and 60-minute counter
• Date: no date
• Case: 316L stainless steel, brushed finish
• Diameter: 40 mm
• Thickness: 9.50 mm
• Lug width: 20 mm
• Crystal: double-domed hesalite, 2.00 mm thick
• Case back: 316L steel with embossed French Air and Space Force emblem
• Dial: matte black, sub-dials positioned at 12 and 6 o'clock
• Legibility: hands and indices treated with Super-LumiNova 7499 C/LE
• Crown: oversized, adorned with the AAE emblem
• Bezel: brushed 316L stainless steel
• Strap: black canvas with leather lining, crafted in the Franche-Comté region
• Water resistance: 100 meters / 10 bars
• Brand's country of origin: France
• Yema warranty: 2 years

Why choose this watch?

To begin with, its meca-quartz movement offers an interesting combination if you like chronographs without looking for the winding requirements of a mechanical watch. The time is regulated by quartz, but the timing function uses a mechanical module. To measure an activity or a short duration, the dedicated 60-minute counter keeps the reading distinct from the current time.

Next, the Flygraf bi-compax possesses true visual consistency. The matte black dial and beige markers give it a warm presence, and the double-domed crystal reinforces its vintage inspiration. The brushed case avoids an accumulation of shiny surfaces. With its 40 mm diameter and 9.50 mm thickness, it offers proportions that deserve as much attention as its style.

Finally, the AAE details tell the story of a real collaboration. They bring a specific dimension for those interested in aviation or the history of military watches. The canvas strap with leather lining completes this identity with a casual look, while the luminescent hands and indices retain their practical appeal. A watch to choose for all these details, as much as for its chronograph.

About Yema

Founded in 1948 by Henry-Louis Belmont, Yema is a French watchmaking house based in Morteau. Its history was built around watches useful to pilots, divers, and athletes.

The brand has maintained ties with the Air Force since the 1970s. The Flygraf collection extends this aeronautical heritage; this model is assembled in Yema's French workshops and uses a Seiko caliber.

Its various families explore other worlds: Superman and Navygraf for diving, Rallygraf for motorsports. The Flygraf bi-compax retains this functional approach while adapting it to an aviation chronograph accessible for everyday use.