Vintage Swiss Glycine Combat Sub Watches

 

The Glycine Combat Sub is one of Switzerland's longest-running dive watch collections. Introduced in the 1960s, it earned a reputation as a reliable, affordable professional dive watch with military-inspired styling. Vintage Combat Subs are especially appreciated for their slim cases, robust Swiss movements, and understated design.

History

Glycine was founded in 1914 by Eugène Meylan in Bienne, Switzerland. Although the company is perhaps best known for the Airman pilot's watch introduced in 1953, Glycine expanded into dive watches during the 1960s as recreational scuba diving gained popularity.

The Combat Sub was designed to offer professional diving capability in a comfortable, everyday-wear package. Unlike many larger dive watches of the era, the Combat Sub emphasized a relatively thin profile while maintaining excellent water resistance.

Vintage Combat Sub (1960s–1980s)

Early Combat Sub models generally featured:

• Stainless steel cases measuring 36–40 mm.
• Unidirectional or bidirectional rotating dive bezels (depending on the production period).
• Matte black dials with highly legible luminous markers.
• Mercedes, sword, or baton-style hands, varying by reference.
• Acrylic crystals on earlier models.
• Screw-down crowns.
• Water resistance typically rated at 200 meters.

The clean, functional styling reflected the practical approach favored by military and professional users.

Movements

Vintage Combat Subs were powered by reliable Swiss automatic movements from respected manufacturers, including:

• ETA 2472
• ETA 2783
• ETA 2824 (later models)
• A. Schild (AS) automatic movements on some references

These calibers were chosen for their durability, ease of servicing, and widespread availability.

Design Characteristics

Collectors appreciate the Combat Sub for its:

• Slim profile compared with many competing dive watches.
• Excellent dial legibility.
• Simple, uncluttered aesthetic.
• Comfortable fit for daily wear.
• Practical tool-watch heritage.

Unlike more luxurious dive watches, the Combat Sub prioritized functionality over ornamentation.

Military Connections

Although the Combat Sub was not officially adopted as widely as watches such as the Rolex Submariner or Omega Seamaster 300, Glycine watches have been privately purchased and worn by military personnel around the world. Their robust construction and dependable movements made them popular among soldiers, divers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Modern Combat Sub

Current Combat Sub models preserve much of the original design while incorporating modern features:

• 39 mm, 42 mm, and 46 mm case options.
• Sapphire crystals.
• Ceramic or steel bezels (depending on the model).
• Swiss automatic movements, often the Sellita SW200-1.
• Water resistance up to 200 meters.
• Super-LumiNova on hands and markers.

Collectibility

Vintage Combat Subs have become increasingly collectible because they offer:

• Authentic Swiss dive-watch heritage.
• Classic 1960s and 1970s styling.
• Reliable, serviceable movements.
• Relative affordability compared with many vintage Rolex, Omega, or Tudor dive watches.
• A strong reputation among enthusiasts who value practical tool watches.

Original-condition examples with untouched dials, matching handsets, original bezels, and correct signed crowns generally command the greatest interest.

Legacy

The Glycine Combat Sub is a respected example of the classic Swiss dive watch. While it has never achieved the mainstream fame of the Rolex Submariner or Omega Seamaster, its combination of dependable engineering, restrained design, and more than half a century of continuous production has earned it a loyal following. For collectors seeking a vintage dive watch with genuine heritage and everyday usability, the Combat Sub remains one of the most compelling values in Swiss watchmaking.