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Longines Lyre Watches: Classic Goes Classy

There are three primary styles exhibited by the Longines Lyre watch collection: single-tone, two-tone, and leather. All are minimalistic in style, but that is the key to these timepieces’ attractiveness. Their simple yet classy look makes these watches easy to pair with just about any outfit.

Single-tone Longines Lyre watches are made from stainless steel all over. The case that houses the white matte or blue sunray dial is smooth while the band is made up of rice grain-style center links sandwiched by thicker links on both sides. The band also has a triple safety folding clasp and push-piece opening for a better and more secure fit on the wrist.

Two-tone versions look similar to the single-tone watches in almost all aspects, except for their stainless steel bands. The bracelets have alternating vertical silver and rose gold or yellow gold hues. The accented colors are applied in the form of a layer of Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating, a finish that uses vaporized materials to reinforce metals. PVD coatings are also known to be tougher and more resistant against rust and scratches than electroplating.

Leather Longines Lyre timepieces, meanwhile, are characterized by their dark blue or black leather straps attached to the stainless steel cases. They are stylish and exude a vintage class with their glossy surfaces and alligator skin patterns.

Prices at a Glance: Most Popular Longines Lyre Watches

How Much Are Longines Lyre Watches?

Longines Lyre watches are competitively-priced classic timepieces. Anyone can purchase a Longines Lyre watch between $900 USD to $1,700 USD, which is an affordable price range when it comes to luxury watches. The value of the specific model depends on the finishes and materials used. For instance, yellow gold PVD-coated timepieces with sunray dials typically have a slightly higher starting price compared to single-tone stainless steel versions with plain dials.

To help buyers select the best of the best Longines Lyre watches, below are the hottest models from the catalog and how much they cost:

Prices for the Longines Lyre Watch Ref. L49614926

The most popular stainless-steel timepiece of the collection is the Longines Lyre Watch Ref. L49614926, which will set buyers back by $1,500 USD. It is shiny from the case to the bracelet, with a clean silver finish. The Ref. L49614962’s dial, with its blue sunray pattern, breaks up the color monotony while the polished silver hands and indices complement the watch’s overall look.

The timepiece’s case and sleek overall motif can be associated with bell lyres that come in stainless steel. Like the said percussion instrument, which is used in marching bands, anyone who wears this watch can also make a grand entrance with its impeccably charming style. 

Prices for the Longines Lyre Watch Ref. L49614922

Another timepiece from the catalog that is also in high demand is the Longines Lyre Watch Ref. L49614922, which is worth $1,400 USD. It is the leather counterpart of the stainless steel Ref. L49614926.

This watch features a dark blue leather strap in the same color as the dial, which is great for a cool evening look. Even with its slightly darker aesthetics, this timepiece remains sleek and stylish with its blue sunray dial finish, stainless steel case, and polished silver hands. This watch also uses the automatic caliber L888, which gives it an impressive 72-hour power reserve. 

Prices for the Longines Lyre Watch Ref. L49612127

A highly sought-after two-tone timepiece from the collection is the Longines Lyre Watch Ref. L49612127. Although its silver and gold hues make it look pricey, the timepiece is actually quite affordable, at a price of $1,700 USD. It is thousands of dollars less expensive than other mainstream classic luxury watches from the big brands.

The watch looks like it is made of real silver and gold thanks to its glossy stainless steel bracelet with lustrous silver and yellow gold PVD-coated links. The hands and indices on its white matte dial are also plated in gold, adding to its aura of premium luxury.

The Longines Watch Ref. L49612127 is visibly inspired by the lyre. Judging by the curvatures and lines of the case and its overall appearance, the inspiration for this timepiece may have been the stringed instruments in bronze or gold used in ancient Greece. 

Prices for the Longines Lyre Watch Ref. L49604722

The Longines Lyre Watch Ref. L49602112, which retails at about $1,400 USD, is another best-selling leather timepiece from the collection. The watch’s suave black strap contrasts sharply with its simple white dial and yellow gold stainless steel case. The strap is also detailed with a pattern that resembles an alligator’s skin. With muted colors and a minimalistic design, the timepiece is remarkably versatile, and can pair well with virtually any getup. 

Prices for the Longines Lyre Watch Ref. L43601117

Among the women’s watches from the Lyre collection, a fan-favorite is the Longines Lyre Ladies’ Watch Ref. L43601117, which is worth $1,099 USD. It is a two-tone timepiece but the hues used on the case and bracelet are more delicate and feminine. To elaborate, the color that is paired with the stainless steel’s silver hue looks like exquisite rose gold. That is because it is a tasteful red PVD coating.

Dimensions-wise, the watch is quite small, with a petite 25mm diameter typical for a ladies’ timepiece. It also runs on the caliber L592 that has a power reserve of 45 hours.

There is a version of this model that caters to men, the $1,169 USD Longines Lyre Men’s Watch Ref. L49601117. This timepiece comes in the same style but is bigger, weighing in at 38.5mm, and uses the caliber L888 instead.

Longines Lyre’s History and Design Details: Everlasting Elegance

The Longines Lyre watch collection has been around since the 21st century. It is among the timepiece selections that best reflect Longines’ commitment to following its “Elegance is an attitude” slogan. This motto dates back to 1999.

The Longines Lyre timepieces have been highly touted for their elegance, and the collection has stuck to it style-wise. As a result, the design of the Lyre has not changed that significantly since its launch. These watches have retained their clean and simple dials, 9-link bracelets that come in one or two tones, and dressy leather straps. This understated minimalism has become the iconic look of the Longines Lyre collection. That said, the elegance of Longines Lyre watches is quite subtle compared to that of other collections from the same period, which tend to be bolder.

Compare the Longines Lyre collection and the Longines Elegant line that was launched in 2014, for instance. The two catalogs are quite similar in appearance, but the Lyre watches are classy without being too flashy, forgoing the diamonds and other precious gems that can be found in many Longines Elegant models. Regardless of these minor differences, the two collections exude everlasting elegance through the years. That is why both are so loved by past and present generations of watch enthusiasts.

5 Reasons to Buy Longines Lyre Watches

There are many brands to choose from when it comes to classic luxury watches, so why pick timepieces from the Longines Lyre collection? For buyers who have that question in mind, here are the top five reasons why Longines Lyre watches are excellent purchases:

1. The Watches Are Elegant

Longines Lyre timepieces are elegant, even without the use of ostentatious gemstones or studs. The fine lines and curves on the cases and bands are enough to give these watches a look of quiet sophistication. The sleek, high-quality materials used also add a premium feel to the timepieces.

2. The Timepieces Have a Secure Fit

When it comes to watches, a good fit is defined as one that feels comfortable yet secure on your wrist. Longines Lyre timepieces, particularly the stainless steel versions, have that advantage thanks to their push-piece openings and triple safety folding clasps. Said mechanisms are also designed to protect the bracelets or straps when the timepieces are placed inside boxes.

3. The Watches Are Budget-friendly

Longines Lyre watches are great for buyers who do not have a huge budget to work with. For $1,700 USD or less, anyone can have a reliable Longines Lyre watch that tells the time and date efficiently, and looks versatile for formal or casual wear. These Lyre timepieces are priced way more cheaply than classic timepieces from the biggest Swiss brands, but they certainly do not skimp on the quality.

4. The Timepieces Are Expertly-made

Longines Lyre watches are born from hundreds of years of expertise in the horological field. Longines, the sole creator of these lyre-inspired watches, has been operating since 1832. Moreover, as a recipient of many awards from the industry and an official timepiece provider for renowned worldwide sporting events, Longines has long proven its top-of-the-line watchmaking capabilities.

5. Longines is A Famously Celebrity-Endorsed Brand

Longines is a trusted brand by many famous names around the globe. Its ambassadors include popular personalities from the film and sports industries. On the long list are Oscar award winner Kate Winslet, tennis legend Andre Agassi, South Korean star Jung Woo-Sung, Alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin, and more. 

Longines Lyre: Classic Timepieces for Everyone

Longines is best known for its sporty dive and equestrian timepieces, but the Lyre collection shows that it can design and manufacture stylish watches for everyone as well. These timepieces have classic and elegant looks that make them desirable regardless of your personal fashion tastes, and this the main reason for the collection’s popularity in the watch community.