My second Garmin, a used Tactix Delta, is hyuge, and a tank. I'm hard on watches and the bezel has NO scratches. The rim around the bezel is scratched to hell, and I'm ok with that.
The 22 day battery life kicks ass. My last Garmin, a Vivoactive 3, was lasting barely a week per charge.
It works great for tracking workouts, weather, temperature, controlling music, sleep and more. I could get messages when going to school when the profs didn't want you screwing with your phone in class.
What's not to love?
Sounds like you don't need the best and newest to get all the features you need here. Most of the watches you're being recommended will be perfect for you, yes. But any older Fenix/Tactix will work for you too.
In fact, I'm still using my Fenix 6x Solar, does literally everything you outlined here besides the stealth mode, jump master, etc.
A Tactix 7 or event Tactix Delta will achieve all you need. Just a side note, best battery = MIP display. Don't think you can get a stealth mode (night vision) with an MIP display, that's reserved for the amoled versions. Good luck on your search!
Really wish that the 47mm watches came in MIP.
I just upgraded models after having a Tactix Delta since release. I downsized from MIP+Solar (51mm) to AMOLED 47mm because it fits more naturally on my wrist.
I can survive without the solar charging, but man I was not ready for this AMOLED adjustment. I love the vibrancy, but I agree with you that the MIP feels more like a traditional watch.
The difference isn't enough for me to have a strong opinion towards one or the other-- I spent 5 years with the MIP so there is definitely some bias. But it's absolutely noticable.
I decided on the Enduro 3...brand new off eBay for $465. Overall I'm happy with my purchase, prior to that I had the instinct 2 solar...the instinct 3 solar and Amoled, and then the Tactix delta. All great watches but you learn pretty quick what you need and what you don't.
Aloha-Eh
