I’m convinced at least half of these “is it real or fake” posts are from people making fakes trying to hone their craft/see if their current model can pass a litmus test.

I’ve done this exact thing…sell off a versatile collection of watches to fund a more singular “grail” purchase. In fact, I’ve done it twice (once being for the BB58). In both cases, I found that a one (or even two) watch collection falls short of feeling well rounded, and I quickly get annoyed/bored. In both cases I reversed course, sold the grail, and diversified my collection again.

Like you, I have a number of expensive hobbies, and I just can’t justify tying up more than several thousand in watches. So, I’ve end up determining that, for me, a modest, rounded collection of watches in the 500-1500 range is where I’m comfortable. YMMV, of course, just sharing my personal experience.

You could pick up lightly used Hamilton Khaki Auto on bracelet in r/Watchexchange for that price. A classic (and with exhibition caseback).

Depends on whether you consider your watches or your wife more important. If the latter (which I sincerely hope), then, no, don’t lie. Communicate and find common ground. My wife is supportive of my expensive hobbies (watches, knives, etc.), but she also gives me some good pushback now again (that I need). She trusts me, but also isn’t afraid to smack a bit of sense into me. We’ve been through more trouble than most (accidents, serious health issues, brain injuries, etc) and have stuck it out together. Maybe that’s why she gives me more slack than I probably deserve :)