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An interview with Glycine Watches CEO, Stephan Lack
Page and Cooper were fortunate to grab a few minutes with Stephan Lack, CEO of Glycine watches. They asked him their famous ‘15’ questions, giving us an insight into Glycine’s heritage and their plans for the future:
Stephan Lack, CEO GLycine Watches
1. How did you become involved in the watch business?
I studied as an economist and marketing specialist. Initially I worked for Unilever, but received an offer from the Swatch Group.
2. How long have you been involved in the watch business?
18 years. I was responsible for building the distribution base in China, Asia, and Japan. I lived in Asia for nearly 10 years.
3. What is the one thing you are most proud of in your career so far?
Entering the Chinese market was challenging and ultimately very successful
4. What training do your crafts people have?
All of our craftspeople study at Watchmaker school, then progress to Watchmaker master study. However experience is a most valuable asset
5. How long does it take to make one time piece?
It can be up to 1 year, dependent on the complexity of the watch.
6. What new techniques or materials have you seen arrive in the last few years?
Finishing has seen most change with Ceramics, 5N coating, and ceramic coating
7. The wristwatch has seen a dramatic rise in popularity over the last few years, where do you think this passion has come from?
Men are fascinated by technical instruments, they appreciate the fine craftsmanship and sophistication, ladies have always treasured fine jewelry pieces and more recently gent’s watches have also come into vogue.
8. What do you think of the trend for making larger time pieces?
Glycine was one of the pioneers of larger time pieces, so for us it’s a natural progression and not necessarily a trend
9. How much importance do you think the strap commands?
The strap belongs to the complete design of the watch. In consequence it’s important and can heavily change the character and appeal of the watch. As a consequence, different regions of the World prefer different straps on a watch.
10. How do you see the watch market growing over the next few years?
Asia still growing, as is South America. The USA is stable, but Europe remains rather difficult
11. Are your customers spread evenly across the World or are they predominantly from the same areas?
It’s totally even across the world.
12. What is the latest product that most excites you?
Combat SUB Stealth is something we are very proud of.
13. What three facts would you like your customers to know about your brand?
Glycine - 99 years of consecutive watchmaking
Glycine - Pionieer of aviation watches with 25 generations of the AIRMAN since 1953
Glycine – one of the first 23 watch brands at Basel Fair
14. What challenges face the industry over the next few years?
Monopoly of a big group in the mechanical price range of 700-2000 CHF
Economical Crisis in EU
What watch do you wear?
A GLYCINE AIRMAN CHRONO 8
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