Seiko is a brand that is high quality in this price range

I would do a simple google search to find a particular style you’re shooting for

You gave a very long explanation to really just say fans/media have recency bias

I think it’s important to remember that some media engage in rage-bait on purpose. They know very well what they are doing but it works and gets attention

Orient Bambino and Seiko Presage are right up your alley