Glycine watches are famous in the industry thanks to their storied history and modern designs. These Swiss-made timepieces were worn by explorers, adventurers, soldiers and pilots since the company was founded in 1914.
The company's initial success was due to their focus on producing watches that were able to withstand the harshest environments. Glycine's most famous watch, the Airman, was worn by many pilots during World War II and is still popular today with both aviators and watch enthusiasts.
In this article, we will provide you with information about the company and its history. We have also included other relevant details that consumers should consider before purchasing a watch.
History of Glycine Watches
d are a premier Swiss watch brand that has been crafting timepieces since 1914. The company was founded by Eugène Meylan, who believed in the importance of craftsmanship and the quality of Swiss-made products.
Meylan was an ingenious inventor and engineer. By the 1930s, Glycine expanded into making self-winding watches with a professional production in Bienne, Switzerland. Over time, the brand became well known for its luxury miniature movements encased in precious gold and platinum cases—often studded with diamonds.
In 1931, Meylan invented and patented the EMSA module which transformed normal hand-wound watches into automatic charge watches—an iconic innovation that still exists today. Thus, in the 1940s, Glycine began manufacturing a line of sophisticated automatic watches.
In 1953, Glycine created the first Airman watch—a feat that helped establish it as a leader in Swiss watchmaking. The design of this watch was at the request of British pilot and commander, Chat Brown. It became the first multiple-timezone watch to be introduced.
Glycine reached outer space in 1965 when Charles Pete Conrad became an astronaut on board Gemini 5. Conrad was an avid Glycine Airman fan, a passion he developed during his stint as a U.S. Air Force test pilot. After landing and returning from his mission, Conrad was still wearing The Airman strapped to his space suit!
In 1967, the Glycine Combat was launched, making it the collection specifically designed for military and sports use. The Combat remains one of the most popular choices not just for military personnel but for adventure enthusiasts.
Glycine released several variations on its original Airman watch in the early years of the twentieth century—including models with GMT hands, chronographs and date magnifiers.
Today, Glycine is considered one of the world's finest watch manufacturers. The brand was acquired by Invicta Watch Group in 2016.
Is Glycine A Good Watch?
The brand has a rich history of making watches for the military and other action-oriented pursuits, which is why they are known as one of the best watch brands for those who love to explore and adventure. Their watches are both functional and stylish, making them ideal accessories for any active lifestyle.
Glycine watches are made for action and adventure, so they have all the features you need in a rugged timepiece: strong materials, water resistance, and shock protection from impacts in some models.
These fine Swiss-made pieces are within almost any budget—from midrange to high end. More than its monetary value, these timepieces are made to last, so they’re perfect for those who want a watch that will be their companion through many years of adventures.
Best Qualities of Glycine Watches:
Glycine watches are one of the best values around. With a wide range of models, Glycine watches have earned their name as a household name in watchmaking. Glycine watches are known for their quality and dependability, especially the Airman series.
The following are some of the best things about Glycine watches:
Usable Design
Glycine watches have been designed with a rugged yet lightweight construction that makes them perfect for those who need to be able to rely on their watch in tough situations. The company's timepieces are also highly accurate, so you won't have to worry about whether or not your watch is keeping time accurately when you're out in the field or on the water.
With a Glycine watch, you can trust that your watch will last through whatever adventures come your way without any worries about breaking down or becoming damaged due to wear-and-tear.
Made for Action and Adventure
Glycine watches are made for action and adventure. The company has always focused on creating durable, reliable timepieces that can withstand the harshest environments—even outer space!
Glycine watches have been worn by explorers, adventurers and soldiers around the world. They have been used to explore uncharted lands, conquer the highest peaks, and even make their way into outer space. Glycine watches are the perfect accessory for those who love to live life on their own terms.
Historical Brand
Glycine watches have a rich history. The company produced aviation chronometers for American aviators during the Vietnam War and supplied them to pilots and soldiers from the United States.
Its watchmaking heritage includes the legendary Airman collection—first introduced in 1953 as a high-quality line aimed at professionals with demanding jobs but who also wanted stylish watches that would look good even after years of use.
In 1965, Glycine's Airman watch accompanied Charles Pete Conrad as he traveled into space aboard the Gemini 5 spacecraft. Conrad was a former U.S. test pilot who developed a fondness for Glycine watches during his time with the Air Force. The Airman's journey to space and its return to Earth testifies to the watch’s resilience in extreme conditions.
Craftsmanship and Innovation
Glycine has a long tradition of craftsmanship and innovation in watchmaking including the introduction of a chronograph with automatic winding, which was remarkable for its time. Each Glycine watch is designed with functionality in mind; whether it's water resistance or durability, each model will serve its purpose perfectly.
Interestingly, Glycine is also the first luxury watch brand to make an iPhone app. The application allows users to view both the front and back of a watch, examining its features and functions.
Glycine has stayed true to its Swiss heritage with such features as domed Plexiglas crystals that won't shatter if they're dropped. The watches are made with care and attention to detail and they're known for their durability.
Value for Money
Glycine watches are popular among collectors and travelers, who appreciate their durability, legibility and versatility. The brand’s collections vary in price, ranging from mid-tier to luxury. For example, Combat and Airman are two high-end collections of Glycine watches while AirPilot is more affordable.
So, it’s safe to say that the Glycine is a decent timepiece suitable for anyone seeking excellent value on their purchase. Though not ultra-affordable, this watch fulfills all criteria of quality and features at a reasonable price point.
No matter what your adventure, Glycine has a watch for you
Glycine is a Swiss watch brand that's known for its durability and affordability. They're built to last, making them perfect for any adventure you may be on. We’ve taken the time to do our research and compare some of their most beautiful watch models so that you can find your perfect Glycine watch that fits your style and budget.
Glycine Airman The Chief Men's Watch
The Airman is considered by many to be the quintessential modern watch, owing to its purpose-built design and strict adherence to essential functions. Recently, Glycine unveiled new Airman models with a variety of advanced world timer functions and other collectible editions.
A stylish yet functional timepiece, this Glycine Airman watch is Swiss-made and features a date display at 3 o'clock, scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, and water resistance of 30 m (100 feet.) The watch case is made of bronze-colored stainless steel, and the dial is green. It has a dark brown leather strap with pin buckle closure.
Glycine Airman Vintage Noon Men's Watch
The Airman Vintage collection is centered around the first Airman watches created by Glycine. Hence, it is modeled after the iconic 1953 Airman. This collection's dial is distinct for the outer ring of numerals that indicate military time.
The Glycine Airman Vintage Noon watch features a round stainless steel case and scratch-resistant sapphire crystal dial. The date, water resistance of 165 feet, black fabric strap with pin buckle clasp for closure is also included in this package – all you'll ever need from an automatic men's watch!
Glycine Combat Sub 42 Men's Watch
Glycine introduced its Combat Sub watch in the late 1990s, and while other models may have surpassed it in popularity, this one is still considered by many to be an excellent timepiece—and for good reason!
This Glycine Combat Sub 42 is a watch designed with both style and durability in mind. The watch's Swiss-made automatic movement provides a 38-hour reserve and keeps accurate time with its sapphire crystal. It is 42 mm in diameter, the perfect size for any man who wants to make an astute fashion statement without being weighed down by a large or heavy wristwatch.
Final Thoughts
Glycine watches are a great choice for adventurers. They are tough and stylish, and they offer something for everyone. If you want a watch that is comfortable enough to wear while running or hiking in the woods, yet rugged enough to withstand any adventure, then this is it!
