Upon further research, I now believe the Eco Drive One reference AR5044-03E may be the superior choice for my needs. This model uses a cermet case and titanium/aluminum alloy bezel to support the 2.98mm thickness. It seems this may have been the peak engineering cycle of the watch, as modern references are 3.5mm-4.5mm despite using the same movement. >>18463421 is the 2025
reference AR5062-52E which has an integrated steel bracelet and weighs in at a lofty 96g. I consider this extra weight to contradict the "thin/minimalist" design ethos of the Eco Drive One; why have a thin watch if it isn't also feather light? I'm not wild about the default gator band of the AR5044-03E, but considering swapping for an unlined shell cordovan to complete the svelte 29g package.
>>18463574
I was originally put off by the accentuated angle pointing to the crown and I also think the marketing pics of the dial are horrendous, but high quality videos show off this watch much better and it actually looks pretty good to my eyes. But I'm obviously a simpleton in these matters.
>>18463579
This indeed is an attractive watch, and is under active consideration.
>>18463823
Nice watch.