Glycine Watches – Swiss Aviation and Military Watch Heritage Since 1914
Glycine Watches are renowned for combining Swiss precision, aviation heritage and robust tool-watch design across more than a century of watchmaking history. Founded in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland in 1914 by Eugène Meylan, Glycine quickly established itself as an innovative manufacturer dedicated to creating reliable, functional timepieces for professionals, travellers and adventurers. Throughout its history, the brand has become particularly respected for its pilot watches, military-inspired designs and pioneering GMT complications, helping to secure its place among the most important names in Swiss tool watch manufacturing.
Today, Glycine continues to produce Swiss-made watches that honour its historic roots while incorporating modern materials, manufacturing techniques and mechanical reliability. From iconic pilot watches to professional dive watches and everyday sports models, Glycine remains a favourite among collectors seeking authentic Swiss watchmaking heritage, exceptional value and proven functionality.
Why Choose a Glycine Watch?
Glycine has earned a loyal following among watch enthusiasts thanks to its combination of heritage, innovation and practicality.
The brand is particularly admired for:
Swiss watchmaking heritage since 1914
Historic aviation watch expertise
Pioneer of GMT wristwatches
Professional dive watch collections
Swiss automatic movements
Military-inspired designs
Strong collector appeal
Exceptional value for money
Every Glycine watch reflects the brand's long-standing commitment to creating reliable instruments designed for real-world use.
Explore Glycine Collections
Airman
The Airman collection is undoubtedly Glycine's most iconic creation. First introduced in 1953, the Glycine Airman became one of the world's first watches capable of tracking multiple time zones simultaneously. Developed during the golden age of commercial aviation, the Airman quickly gained popularity among airline pilots, military personnel and international travellers.
Featuring a distinctive 24-hour dial and GMT functionality, the Airman remains one of the most historically significant pilot watches ever produced and continues to be a cornerstone of the Glycine collection.
Combat Sub
The Combat Sub collection has become one of Glycine's most popular modern ranges. Combining professional dive watch specifications with lightweight wearability and Swiss automatic movements, Combat Sub watches deliver exceptional versatility for both daily wear and underwater adventures.
Available in a wide range of sizes, colours and configurations, the collection offers something for every dive watch enthusiast.
Combat Classic
The Combat Classic collection delivers a more refined interpretation of Glycine's military heritage. Featuring elegant dial layouts, automatic movements and versatile styling, these watches bridge the gap between dress watches and sports watches.
Combat 6
The Combat 6 collection focuses on simplicity, legibility and everyday functionality. Designed as practical Swiss automatic watches for daily wear, these models have become highly regarded among enthusiasts seeking reliable mechanical watches with timeless appeal.
Airpilot
Inspired by historic aviation instruments, the Airpilot collection combines classic pilot watch aesthetics with contemporary Swiss craftsmanship. Large, highly legible dials and aviation-inspired design cues make the collection a natural extension of Glycine's long-standing connection to flight.
The Legendary Airman
Few watches have had a greater impact on aviation watchmaking than the Glycine Airman.
Introduced in 1953, the Airman was designed specifically for pilots operating across multiple time zones. Its innovative 24-hour dial and GMT functionality allowed wearers to track home time and local time simultaneously, making it an essential tool during the rapid expansion of international air travel.
Over the decades, the Airman became a favourite among military pilots, commercial aviators and collectors, earning its reputation as one of the most important pilot watches in Swiss watchmaking history.
Swiss Tool Watches Built for Adventure
Glycine has always focused on creating practical watches designed for demanding environments.
Across the collection, owners benefit from:
Swiss automatic movements
Sapphire crystal protection
Aviation-inspired functionality
Professional dive watch capability
Exceptional legibility
Lightweight and comfortable designs
Proven reliability
This focus on functionality has helped establish Glycine as one of the most respected names in affordable Swiss tool watches.
Aviation, Military and Dive Watch Heritage
Unlike many brands that specialise in a single category, Glycine has successfully built expertise across aviation, military and diving watches.
This diverse heritage allows the brand to offer watches suited to a wide range of enthusiasts while maintaining a strong identity rooted in professional use. Whether choosing a GMT pilot watch, a robust diver or a versatile everyday automatic, owners benefit from over a century of Swiss watchmaking experience.
Independent Spirit and Collector Appeal
Glycine has long been appreciated by enthusiasts who value substance over marketing. The brand's rich history, iconic Airman collection and strong reputation for value have helped it develop a dedicated following among collectors worldwide.
For many watch enthusiasts, Glycine represents an opportunity to own a genuine piece of Swiss watchmaking history without the premium prices often associated with larger luxury brands.
Why Buy Glycine Watches from HYPE Watches?
At HYPE Watches, we are proud to be an Authorised UK Stockist of Glycine Watches.
When purchasing from HYPE Watches, you benefit from:
Official Glycine manufacturer warranties
Genuine Swiss watches supplied through authorised channels
Free UK delivery
Flexible finance options including 0% finance available on selected purchases
Expert watch advice and dedicated customer support
Secure online shopping and trusted UK retailer service
Whether you're discovering the legendary Airman, exploring the versatile Combat Sub collection or investing in a Swiss automatic tool watch, Glycine offers exceptional heritage, reliability and value.
Discover Glycine Watches at HYPE Watches
Explore Glycine Watches at HYPE Watches and discover one of Switzerland's most respected aviation and tool watch manufacturers. Combining over 110 years of Swiss craftsmanship with pioneering GMT innovation and professional watchmaking expertise, Glycine continues to create watches trusted by collectors, pilots and enthusiasts around the world.
