Is Glycine a Good Watch Brand? A Comprehensive Fact-Check
What We Know
Glycine is a Swiss watch brand that has been in operation since 1914, known for its focus on pilot watches and automatic Swiss timepieces. The brand gained significant recognition with the launch of its Airman collection in 1953, which catered to the needs of frequent travelers and aviators by allowing them to track multiple time zones (WatchRanker). Glycine watches are manufactured in Bienne, Switzerland, and the brand has a reputation for producing quality timepieces at competitive prices (WatchRanker).
The brand's Combat Sub series has been particularly well-received, with many reviews highlighting its solid construction, comfort, and affordability. For instance, one review notes that the Combat Sub is "one of the thinnest 200m automatic dive watches in production today" and is praised for its smooth design (Two Broke Watch Snobs). Additionally, Glycine watches are often compared favorably to other brands like Seiko and Hamilton, especially in terms of quality and price (Timepiece King).
Analysis
The evidence suggests that Glycine is indeed a reputable watch brand. Reviews consistently highlight the quality of its timepieces, particularly the Combat Sub series, which is noted for its "perfect proportions" and "high quality" despite being priced affordably (WatchCrunch). Furthermore, Glycine has maintained a focus on innovation and design, which has helped it retain a loyal customer base even after its acquisition by the Invicta Watch Group in 2016 (WatchRanker).
However, some skepticism exists regarding the brand's future following its acquisition. Critics have expressed concerns that Invicta might compromise Glycine's heritage and quality. Despite these concerns, many reviews indicate that Glycine has successfully maintained its reputation for producing reliable and stylish watches (WatchRanker, Timepiece King).
The brand's affordability is another significant factor in its favor. Glycine watches are often priced below $1,000, making them accessible to a broader audience while still offering Swiss craftsmanship. For example, the Combat Sub is frequently available for around $500, which is competitive compared to other Swiss brands (WatchCrunch, Bens Watch Club).
In terms of source reliability, the reviews cited are from established watch review platforms and blogs that specialize in horology, providing a balanced view of Glycine's offerings. However, as with any brand, personal preferences and experiences can vary, and potential buyers should consider their specific needs and tastes.
Conclusion
The claim that Glycine is a good watch brand is True. The brand has a long-standing history of producing quality timepieces, particularly in the pilot and dive watch categories. Reviews consistently highlight the brand's commitment to quality, design, and affordability, making it a solid choice for both collectors and casual watch enthusiasts. While concerns about its future post-acquisition exist, current evidence suggests that Glycine continues to uphold its reputation for excellence.
Sources
- Review: Glycine Combat Sub 39
- Glycine Watches Review: Are They Good Quality? - WatchRanker
- Review - Glycine Combat Sub 42
- Glycine Combat Sub Review
- Glycine Watches Review (Are They Any Good? Why So Cheap?)
- Owner review: Glycine Combat Sub GMT
- Glycine Watches! 8 Unique Models Reviewed for 2025 - NanaDC
- Glycine Combat Sub Review | A Great Submariner ...