Yema Navygraf Barracuda CMM.20 Limited Edition Introduces New Watch In Association With Marine Nationale

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With 400 pieces produced, celebrating 400 years of the Marine Nationale, incorporating a forged carbon bezel and dial with chronometric precision, it’s time to deep dive into the new Yema Navygraf Barracuda CMM.20 Limited Edition

Summary

Established in 1948, from the makers of the legendary Superman collection comes a novelty, extolling the virtues of the French Navy’s submarine forces as its thematic design language.
A direct descendant of this lineage dating back to the 1970’s model, famed for military grade toughness and “exclamation point” markers, the brand have launched two variations with a stainless steel bracelet and black NATO strap.
Launched on Bastille Day, 14th July 2026, this watch pays respect to Barracuda-class nuclear attack submarines alongside a CMM.20 micro-rotor movement, 300 metres of water resistance and first rate shock resistance.
Harking back to the color code of military onboard instruments, there’s an imposing red sapphire display caseback, applied hands and indexes in matte white, not to mention Super-LumiNova C1 Grade A, ensuring strong luminescence in low-light conditions.
With more retro influences than a Breitling Superocean, there’s an in-house Calibre CMM.20, delivering the very best of French watchmaking into a well balance, clear and functional execution

Despite record temperatures across Europe this year, what shows no signs of slowing down are new watch releases. Au contraire.

The temperature has been cranked up, thanks to recent launches like the Panerai Luminor Luna Rossa Chrono PAM01768 and Luna Rossa GMT PAM01791. Or how about the Grand Seiko Spring Drive Peach Blossom 62GS SBGA529.

US only I’m afraid.

Sure, they may be the big hitters of the industry. But what are the independents up to?

Merging military inspiration alongside impeccable diver heritage, here’s our review of the YEMA Navygraf Barracuda CMM.20 Limited Edition.

Time to stand to attention.

Barracuda French Submarine Initiative - Everything You Need To Know

Giving thanks to the Marine Nationale, the Barracuda Submarine programme, after which the watch takes its influence, is a cornerstone of the country’s naval modernisation strategy, designed to replace the aging Rubis-class nuclear-powered attack submarines.

Source: Twitter account of Admiral Pierre Vender, Chief of Staff, French Armed Forces

Developed by Naval Group for the French Navy, it is officially known as the Suffren class, which combines advanced stealth, improved endurance, and cutting-edge combat systems.

These submarines are powered by nuclear reactors, allowing them to remain submerged for extended periods while supporting a host of strategic missions.

The Barracuda submarine programme enhances France’s ability to conduct a number of areas such as;

Anti-submarine warfare.
Anti-surface warfare.
Intelligence gathering
Special forces deployment.
Long-range strike operations.

Equipped with modern sonar systems, heavyweight torpedoes, Exocet anti-ship missiles, and MdCN naval cruise missiles, the submarines provide exceptional operational flexibility.

Their advanced acoustic discretion makes them among the quietest submarines in service, significantly improving survivability in contested maritime environments.

The first vessel, Suffren, entered active service in 2022, with five additional submarines scheduled for gradual delivery over the coming years. In June 2026, the De Grasse was announced as the fourth vessel of its class to be brought into service.

It has been streamlined for particular operations, capable of housing 15 commandos.

Beyond strengthening France’s naval capabilities, the Barracuda submarine program supports the nation’s defence industry by sustaining thousands of highly skilled jobs and advancing submarine technologies.

Consequently, it reinforces France’s strategic autonomy and ensures the French Navy remains a leading force in undersea warfare.

Personality Of The Yema Navygraf Barracuda CMM.20 Limited Edition

Deeply ingrained in its military roots, the brand has unveiled a trio of models in time for Bastille Day. And they have gone down a storm, with as much of a loyal following as King Louis XVI.

That is, until the crowd took weapons from the Hôtel des Invalides before taking claim of the Bastille for its gunpowder. This was to be the catalyst of the French Revolution. Yet, they have remained true to time, ensuring the DNA of the Navygraf remains.

Originally created by Jean Müller, with catalog reference 55.003.6 AS, this new vintage diver takes its cues from the OG model. Elegant but robust, it is in stark contrast to their other collections I have covered like the recent Granvelle collection.

Measuring 39mm x 12.1mm, taking into account the double-domed sapphire crystal, to give you some perspective, it’s the same size as an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Jumbo (Ref. 16202) and 0.1mm less than a Patek Philippe Aquanaut Chronograph (Ref. 5968)

But the forged carbon dial and bezel takes centre stage making every timepiece as distinctive as Zenith Defy Extreme Glacier with its chalcedony components. Or the effect Damascus steel has as seen in our review of the McQuaide C1 Cosmopolitan Collection

So what are its key takeaways?

With a lug to lug of 46mm, an ideal wrist hugger, in keeping with its sturdiness, it has 300 metres of water resistance. This is on par with many of the most iconic watches out there from the Rolex Submariner to the Omega Seamaster Diver.

In tribute to the French Navy’s Submarine Forces, notably derived from the Barracuda submarine programme, there’s plenty of naval inspiration and military background that goes hand in hand.

In fact, this might have more of a rich soldierly background than the Rolex "MilSubs" (Reference 5513 and 5517), specially issued and commissioned on behalf of the Royal Navy.

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Something to feast your eyes on is the red tactical accents that boost its overall look, giving it a genuine presence. Take for example the Barracuda text situated above 6, akin to a typical Sea-Dweller.

Then there’s the 20 minute countdown sector emphasised in the same accent. This is linked to standard submarine synchronisation procedures, giving on board crew accessibility to organise and monitor timed operational manoeuvres at the drop of a hat.

Don’t forget the white Super-Luminova C1, Grade A applied to the indices, hands and arrow shaped red minute hand, symbolising its dive-like characteristics.

In addition, there’s a compact black hour hand while flipping it over reveals a rather unusual but striking red tinted sapphire caseback.

Evoking the shade of light deep inside actual nuclear attack submarines when performing protocols in the evening, this vision takes precedence, highlighting what crew members experience on board.

This is because red light has less impact on the eyes' ability to adapt to darkness, allowing them to move between illuminated compartments and dark observation areas more effectively, improving safety, efficiency, and operational readiness during nighttime missions.

In fact, there are nearly as many maritime connotations going on as an Omega Seamaster Ploprof that has Poseidon on the caseback.

Closely intertwined with the Marine Nationale, this is expressed by the “Forces Sous-Marines” insignia in the centre.

This is rounded off by a NATO strap made of black nylon with a white pinstripe running through the middle.

For a smarter allure, why not consider the stainless steel H-link bracelet with brushed steel buckle. This has the brand logo engraved on it, tying into their attention to detail.

Other points of interest include;

Angular lugs
Integrated crown guards
120 click unidirectional rotating bezel composed of forged carbon.
Bold red sapphire caseback
Vertical brushing
Polished bevels

Reminiscent of submarine infused movies featuring Das Boot (1981) and Crimson Tide (1995), they have encapsulated the deep waters with aplomb, representing a carefully considered reinterpretation with a modern twist.

Official Specs - Yema Navygraf Barracuda CMM.20 Limited Edition

Did You Know?

Founded in 1626 by Cardinal Richelieu, the Marine Nationale’s motto is "Honneur, patrie, valeur, discipline” which is etched onto every ship. Presently, it has a fleet of nearly 200 vessels.

YEMA Calibre CMM.20

Introduced in November 2022, this is a popular movement that was eventually created for a collection of mainstream and limited edition watches, starting with the Superman Slim in early 2024.

Produced and assembled in Morteau, it is the cradle of French watchmaking, where other brands call home such as Pequignet, responsible for impressive collabs with the likes of Atelier Wen.

Home to Calibre CMM.20, it beats away at 28,800 (4Hz) and offers a weekend-proof 70 hour power reserve. This gives it 5 hours more juice than a new Tudor Black Bay 58 GMT (M7939G1A0NRU-0003)

Not too shabby.

Designed and developed entirely by Olivier Maury in La-Chaux-de-Fonds, the location of many top Swiss luxury watch brands including Girard Perregaux, there is a daily accuracy of -3/+7-seconds with a black satin finish.

Ok so it might not be completely visible with the red sapphire glass going on. But we are clutching at straws as it has a lot going for it including;

Bi-directional tungsten micro rotor
Magnetic resistance
Super slim calibre at less than 4mm
Galvanic treatment

Furthermore, a big tick goes to the balance wheel that has anti-magnetic and low thermal expansion properties. Composed of Glucydur, take advantage of high levels of corrosion and deformation resistance, giving it plenty of robustness.

Official Movement Specs

Where Can You Buy A Yema Navygraf Barracuda CMM.20 Limited Edition?

Supported by a 5 year warranty, it is presented on a black NATO strap. The latter has a contrasting white stripe in the middle, taking inspiration from military equipment, while there is a stainless steel version.

You can purchase one of these watches for;

€2,249 / $2,590 / £1,925 (Nylon)
€2,499 / $2,890 / £2,148 (Stainless steel)

Further information can be found on their official website. Alternatively, if you want to enquire about one, do not hesitate to contact us.

Prices correct July 2026

What’s Our View?

Catering to all manner of enthusiasts spanning several types of watches from diver to tool, the blend of military and contemporary French watchmaking is the perfect combination that has not been seen in previous Navygraf executions.

There are some nice touches which deeply ingrains the brand's relationship with the Marine Nationale such as the tinted red sapphire caseback, giving it a striking look.

We like it as a limited edition, marking the number 400, symbolising the production run as well as commemorating four centuries of this trusted maritime organisation. Besides, YEMA is the official partner of the Marine Nationale (French Navy) which adds tremendous credibility. There are enticing details that demonstrate purpose and clear sense of visual interest.

Be it the forged carbon dial and model name to the red-themed “Forces Sous Marine” underbelly, a direct nod to night-time lighting seen onboard typical nuclear attack submarines, known as SSNs, it is comfortable, durable and highly wearable.

The materials, along with intense red markings, make it not only sporty but adds a splash of colour, utility and high legibility.

Especially from the 20 minute counter used for standard submarine synchronisation protocols during night operations, oversized arrow minute hand and “Barracuda” text.

Personally, it gives off a Rolex COMEX vibe.

Conclusion

Combining tradition with modernity, It has just enough vintage charm to not fall into the homage category.

A genuine tour de force when it comes to military history, skin divers and dedicated in-house calibres, they have undoubtedly put French watchmaking firmly on the map, following in the footsteps of their horological counterparts like Serica and Beaubleu.

It’s a real bonhomie of brands

Is this a value for money proposition? Absolutely. With enough back story to rival The Odyssey, this brand weaves its own horological tapestry like no other. Its rich dive history with the Superman is one thing.

But the Yema Navygraf Barracuda CMM.20 Limited Edition has standout features that take cues from its namesake. Stealthy, ambitious and representing a naval institution now in its four hundredth year, it blends the signature design of the OG model, conceived by Jean Müller in the late 1970's

In my humble view, it is far more refined while maintaining its core qualities that have made the collection nearly as famous as Donald Trump lingering on stage after Spain won the 2026 World Cup.

Unlike the 47th US President, the brand is making their own history…for all the right reasons. And that’s something we should salute!

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Images: Unless otherwise specified

YEMA

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