Watchatlas

Glycine

Biel/Bienne, Switzerland · Est. 1914

Founded by Eugène Meylan

Glycine is a Swiss watch brand founded in 1914 in Biel/Bienne, Switzerland, best known for the Airman series of GMT watches first introduced in 1953 and adopted by US Air Force pilots during the Cold War. Acquired by Invicta in 2016, the brand continues to produce aviation-inspired timepieces referencing its heritage.

Founded
1914
Headquarters
Biel/Bienne, Switzerland
Group
Other
Price Segment
Entry
Status
Active

Key Collections

  • Airman — Historic pilot GMT collection from Glycine, long associated with 24-hour dials and travel-focused dual-time functionality, originally launched as a distinctive aviation watch family.
  • Combat — Military-inspired field and dive-oriented collection from Glycine, spanning classic, sub, and sport variants in a rugged utility-first design language.

Timeline

  • 1914 — Eugène Meylan founds Glycine in Bienne, Switzerland.
  • 1953 — Launches the Airman, one of the world's first automatic 24-hour pilot's watches, adopted by US military pilots.
  • 1967 — Airman SST 'Pumpkin' model becomes a cult classic among Vietnam-era pilots.
  • 2016 — Invicta Watch Group acquires Glycine, ensuring continued production.

Frequently Asked Questions about Glycine

What is special about the Glycine Airman?
Launched in 1953, it was one of the first automatic 24-hour pilot's watches, designed for professional aviators needing to track multiple timezones. It predates or parallels the Rolex GMT-Master.
Who owns Glycine now?
Glycine was acquired by Invicta Watch Group in 2016 but continues to produce its heritage models, including the Airman line.

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