I think the Khaki Field Murph is a good example. I can see a person who is just getting into watches buying the Murph as their first nice watch. I can also see someone who’s been several years into watches adding the Murph to their five- or ten-watch collection.
I don’t feel like the same can be said for, say, a Tissot Gentleman, although it’s a great watch no doubt.
This is probably very subjective. You may disagree with the examples I gave. But I hope you get what I mean. What is your example of a such watch?
Another way to put it: What do you wish you have bought as your first watch (or early in your hobby journey), knowing what you know now about watches, about your taste, and so on?
Much of the Seiko 5 series would qualify here, often it is a “first mechanical” watch for many people. I’m thinking the dive-style, field, and GMT’s in particular. Back in the day it would have been the SKX divers and SNK field watches. Prices have gone up but I think still a good choice for beginners as well as enthusiasts.
There’s gotta be Timex and Casio on this list too. Timex maybe Q Timex 1979 Reissue, or Weekender, or Expedition. Casio would be F-91W or a G-shock of some kind.