Airman “The Chief” Purist Black - Leather Ref. GL0469

Introducing the Glycine Airman “The Chief” Vintage Unisex Black - Leather Ref. GL0469, a timeless revival of a historic timepiece that pays homage to Glycine's illustrious watchmaking legacy.

Established in 1914 by Eugène Meylan in Bienne, Switzerland, Glycine began its journey with miniature movements adorned with precious metals. In the 1930s, the brand expanded its horizons with self-winding and chronometer watches. Glycine's claim to fame, however, lies in its iconic Airman models, first introduced in 1953, pioneering the concept of multiple time zones.

The original Airman “The Chief” emerged in 1956 for Türler, a prominent Swiss retailer, earning its moniker from the US Navy's Chief Petty Officer. With only 25 units crafted, the original remains a rarity. Today, we present the Glycine Airman “The Chief” GMT Vintage Black Ref. GL0469, a collector's delight.

Encased in stainless steel treated with gold, the GL0469 features a 40mm diameter, 12.5mm thickness, and 49mm lug-to-lug length, ensuring a comfortable and elegant fit. The vintage aesthetic is accentuated by the aged sides, creating the illusion of a watch that has gracefully weathered the decades.

The hallmark 24-hour bezel, operated through the thumbscrew crown, showcases charming 1950s technology. Hand-finished in Switzerland, the watch boasts satin-brushed and high-polished surfaces, exhibiting Glycine's commitment to craftsmanship. The sober black dial made of brass remains true to its 1950s roots, featuring the original 24-hour format for tracking two time zones without a new GMT hand. The handset with green SuperLuminova ensures excellent glow-in-the-dark visibility, while rotating one round per day like the original “Purist” Airman.

The Glycine Airman “The Chief” runs on the Glycine GL293 movement, an upgrade from vintage Felsa Bidyanator. This Swiss automatic movement operates at 28,800 bph with hacking and hand-winding capabilities, offering a power reserve of 42 hours. The 22mm brown calf leather strap adds a dressy touch, secured by a classic buckle.

With its robust design, water resistance up to 30 meters, and vintage-inspired elements, the Glycine Airman “The Chief” Vintage Unisex Black “Purist” Ref. GL0469 combines nostalgia with modern Swiss movements. A valuable addition to any collection, this timepiece embodies Glycine's commitment to timeless craftsmanship.