Ref. 94.127G | Calibre Valjoux 7734 hand winding | Diameter 39mm

A super rare version of the Yema Rallygraf Formica. We all know that Yema watches can be found under different brand names such as Le Jour, Eisenhardt, Cardinal etc. but this is the first one I have came across branded UNION ancre.

Yet it is unmistakenly the Yema Rallygraf Formica which was introduced to the public in 1973. Same movement, same case including the Yema caseback engravings and off course same dial configuration, hands and bakelite bezel. 

Spot the difference

When comparing the classic Rallygraf with it's Formica counterpart, there are a few major differences between the two models. First there is the case. The Formica case has straight lugs where the lugs on the classic Rallygraf are much more refined. Then there is the bezel. Bakelite vs steel. And off course hour and minute hands and a smaller chronograph hand. Notice the tip isn't filled with lume, a distinctive and imho magnificent marker on vintage Yema chronographs from the 60's and 70's. 

Yema and UNION Ancre: Mystery solved!

According to Mikrolisk, the watch name and logo database, the brand UNION Ancre belonged to a Dutch Amsterdam based tradehouse named Henri Julien NV. As the catalog you see on the right shows they offered stopwatches and chronographs. They bought complete watches in France and Germany and put their brand name on it.