Cases are also ridiculously thick for the style and complications. A 5k+ dressy date-only watch that's 13+mm thick is a non-starter for me.
I agree. I started my watch career out with Seiko Divers, I have a lot of them, and I like them, but they are big-ass watches. In summer time on a nato or zulu strap, they are amazing.
But wear anything with long sleeves and the height becomes a problem. Also the weight is not for everyone once you're used to lighter mechanical watches.
I'd love to buy a GS, but what really drew to me Rolex in the first place was that they're still making 40mm watches (which is like a unique thing, I don't know why nobody does that anymore), that are also thin on top. I have a 16700. It's less than 12mm high, I believe 11.8mm or something like that. With a GMT movement no less. Sometimes I'm afraid I lost it because it's so light.
Spring Drive is something you have to see in real life, it's absolutely amazing how that second hand is just moving without any hiccup. You stare at it, thinking you might catch it at being jaggy but it never happens. It's just so smooth. I want that.
I really like the Seiko SGBE line, but at nearly 15mm height they're almost a cooking pot. I'd really like to buy a GS, but with the measurements they currently offer I can't justify the price. I know I won't wear it daily because of the size. 40mm with, 12mm height is perfect for me.
edit: Posts should have a picture