u/gunsupkliff

AI says buzz cut. Wife doesn’t like it. What say you guys? FWIW I like the buzz cut. All buzz cut pics are AI.

I think I’ve finally figured out what I like, but I’m looking for recommendations on what to buy next.
My watch journey so far:
Owned a Rolex Submariner and loved it, but ultimately had to sell it.
Started with a few Orients (Bambino, Mako, etc.).
Picked up a Tissot PRX Powermatic 80, but the 40mm wears too large on my 6.5” wrist.
Got a Seiko 5 GMT for Christmas and upgraded it with a Strapcode bracelet.
Went down the AliExpress rabbit hole and picked up several San Martins, an IXDAO Warrior, and a Sugess chronograph.
Recently bought a Traska Commuter and it’s probably my favorite watch I’ve owned since the Submariner.
What I’ve learned:
Likes
37-39mm sweet spot
Excellent finishing for the money
Comfortable bracelets with on-the-fly microadjust
GADA watches
Clean dials
Sapphire crystal
Strong lume is a plus
Prefer date windows
Blue, green, white, or interesting textured dials
Dislikes
Watches that wear large
Excessively thick cases
Overly vintage styling
Faux patina
Skeleton dials
Anything that feels gimmicky
Current collection:
Grand Seiko SBGP013
Traska Commuter
Seiko 5 GMT
Tissot PRX
Several San Martins
IXDAO Warrior
Sugess ST19
Budget: roughly $500-$2,000, though I could stretch a bit for the right watch.
Watches already on my radar:
Formex Essence 39
Baltic Aquascaphe
Monta Noble
Lorier Falcon
Kuoe Royal Smith
Longines HydroConquest (not a microbrand, I know)
Given all that, what would you recommend as the next step up from the Traska? What microbrand or independent made you say “wow, this is noticeably better than the AliExpress stuff”?

Just started fin/min. Front is okay. Crown is the problem area.

It came today and I get it now. Not flashy just really well done. Love the Istrian green dial.

NGL I was beginning to wonder if I’d ever get it. But I think it was worth the wait