Combat SUB 42 Blue Ref. GL0535

With the landscape of watches getting crowded with the ever-growing competition, many strong players dominate the market to overshadow brands like Glycine. Nevertheless, Glycine continues to produce a wide array of compelling watches that hold their own. Established back in 1914, Glycine was founded by Eugène Meylan in Bienne, Switzerland, a place where countless prestigious watchmakers call home. Meylan was an accomplished watch engineer who strove for perfection and nothing less. Through his strong will and determination, he brought Glycine to greater heights with the successful production of extremely precise and fine miniature movements that were encased in precious gold and platinum cases.

Famously known for their historic Airman models from the 1960s, Glycine has put their watchmaking expertise to create new categories of robust tool watches apart from aviation timepieces. In the late 1990s, Glycine introduced the Combat SUB collection, a series of solid dive watches that have since grown to be well respected by watch lovers for its value proposition and outstanding build quality. Along the years, Glycine added a whole array of designs and colour variations to the Combat SUB line up from classic designs to fancy-looking ones, we're definitely spoilt for choice here.

Glycine Combat SUB 42 Blue Ref. GL0535

Measuring 42mm in diameter, the new Glycine Combat Sub 42 Blue has a lug-to-lug of 49mm and thinness of only 10.45mm! Catering to a unisex audience, this set of dimensions will surely attract watch enthusiasts of both genders that found the other case sizes underwhelming.

The case is made of 316L stainless steel and is entirely satin-brushed. In spite of its size, the Glycine Combat Sub 42 boasts a hugely impressive 200m of water resistance. That is achieved through the signed screw-down crown and case back. The watch also features a 120-click, unidirectional dive time bezel, allowing you to track dive times or even your daily commute to work. Topping that off is the flat sapphire crystal covering the dial. With 3 layers of inner anti-reflective coating, readability will not be a concern, even in harsh lighting conditions.

GL224 Swiss automatic movement

The Glycine Combat Sub 42 stands out with its vibrant greenish-blue dial and sleek stainless steel bezel, offering a refreshing twist on the classic diver aesthetic. The dial features a mix of circular and baton indices, anchored by a bold triangular marker at 12 o'clock—all framed by a black minute rehaut that adds contrast while maintaining a cohesive, single-tone look. A black date wheel at 3 o'clock blends in seamlessly, preserving the overall symmetry. Departing from the usual Combat Sub style, this model introduces a set of clean baton hands that enhance its modern appeal. Generous applications of Swiss Super-LumiNova ensure excellent nighttime visibility, rounding off a diver that's as functional as it is stylish.

Powering the Glycine Combat Sub 42 is the ever-reliable GL224 automatic movement. It is essentially based on the renowned ETA 2824-2 or Selita SW200-1. It has 26 jewels, beats at 28,800 BPH and has a power reserve of 38 hours.

Unique Curved Lugs for a Comfortable Fit

Moving away from the dial and case, the Glycine Combat Sub 42 comes on a 22mm oyster-style stainless steel bracelet. It is entirely brushed, adding a touch of class to a well-sized diver.  A diver's clasp rounds off the bracelet, giving the bracelet and the whole watch a sporty look while still maintaining its utilitarian purpose.

In today's watch industry, it's increasingly rare for brands to genuinely listen to their fans and create timepieces that enthusiasts truly desire. Glycine, however, breaks the mold with the Combat Sub, offering it in a variety of sizes to ensure that every collector can find the perfect fit. By prioritizing inclusivity and wearer comfort, Glycine sets itself apart from its peers as a brand that truly listens. Kudos to Glycine for embracing diversity in watch sizing and standing out in an industry that often favors a one-size-fits-all approach.

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