Glycine is a Swiss watch manufacturer founded in 1914 by Eugène Meylan in Bienne, Switzerland. Initially, the company specialized in crafting miniature movements for women's watches, often encased in luxurious materials like gold and platinum. Over time, Glycine expanded its offerings to include men's watches, gaining popularity among the British and American jet-set.
1930s: Eugène Meylan developed the EMSA (Eugène Meylan Société Anonyme) automatic module, a pioneering self-winding mechanism that could be attached to standard manual movements. This innovation marked Glycine's entry into the production of automatic watches.
1953: Glycine introduced the Airman, one of the first watches capable of displaying multiple time zones, featuring a 24-hour dial and rotating bezel. The Airman gained prominence among military and commercial pilots, including use by U.S. Air Force pilots during the Vietnam War. Notably, astronaut Pete Conrad wore a Glycine Airman during the Gemini 5 space mission in 1965 .
1959: The company developed vacuum-sealed cases, enhancing the durability and water resistance of their watches .
1967: Glycine launched the Combat collection, designed for military and sports use, featuring robust construction and classic design elements .
2016: Glycine was acquired by the Invicta Watch Group, aiming to expand its market presence while maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation .
Airman: A flagship line known for its aviation-inspired features, including the ability to track multiple time zones. The Airman series has evolved over the years, incorporating modern technologies while retaining its classic appeal .
Combat: Introduced in 1967, this collection caters to military and sports enthusiasts, offering watches with durable construction and water resistance suitable for various activities .
Incursore, KMU 48, F 104: These lines reflect Glycine's commitment to producing timepieces that combine functionality with distinctive designs, catering to diverse preferences and needs .
