I know I have posted a bunch of questions lately in this forum, lol.. but I did want to give an update and tell you about my experience..
I am really impressed with this watch, now that I have spent more time with it. Let me explain..
I can tell you that I live in Miami, FL (the only place with actual Garmin stores)
Here's the thing tho. A new Marq will likely have the new "elevate 4" sensor found on the current 945LTE and Venue 2 etc. It may also offer a different GPS set, LTE and other small changes like that. I dont think the size is going to change, I dont think the screen is going to change (much) this is because the Marq's follow the form factor of that of an actual luxury watch vs. a "tool" fitness tracker such as the others. So, while I know I was thinking "a new one will have a larger screen", I dont think that will be the case, nor makes sense on this watch now that I have worn it and compared the size to my Omega Seamaster. The Marq is as large as I think you want to go, while still emulating a luxury watch. The current screen size I think works the best as it offers a nice balance etc. This was the only thing I would have cared about in an "upgrade". I will never use LTE, better GPS I dont care about, and I use a chest strap for my runs, rides and weight lifting. The *most* important thing was to have a super nice looking watch that motivates me to wear daily and look great, while still being in the Garmin eco system with great battery life. So, the current Marq checks all the boxes for me in that regard. As long as it lasts and keeps working, for say 5 years.. I think I should be really happy with that.
The battery will be the weakest link in getting the longest life possible from the device. From day one, I only charge to 80 - 85% at most and then re-charge at apx 30%. This way I am always in the "good" range of the battery. I think if I follow that (as I have done on all my other devices in the past) I should stand a chance to get the most from it.
Assuming there is zero support for the watch after about 5 years.. I also think I maybe able to manually open up the watch myself and replace the battery. I have seen videos on this for the Fenix, and I think this is even easier on the Marq watches. Obviously not recommended.. and not intended, but just saying that I do think this is possible.
Now, the watch is breathtaking...
I LOVED my Fenix 6 Sapphire. This was my daily since they came out. But I did find that after about 4 months, I would wonder back and want to wear my "real watches" again. (I have a few). This meant that I was never that consistent (or fully satisfied) with just the F6. I think people who love watches can understand what I mean. This is (I think) the real point of the Marq.
I made another post talking about the darker look at the Marq (due to the domed Sapphire) vs. the flat Sapphire on the F6. This was the thing that I thought was going to keep me with the F6. However.. I bought another Aviator and this time compared side by side to my F6.. and yes, there are some positions where the Marq's coating, or domed crystal can appear darker vs. the exact same situation for the F6 Sapphire. But, I also noticed there are other positions where the Marq looks FAR better with more contrast and colors pop. I even found some situations where the F6 looked darker vs. the Marq. So, in summery "it depends". But one thing was for sure... the Marq's colors on screen are far more vibrant vs. the F6. Orange is a good example of this. On the F6, it kinda has a washed out look. On the Marq, it really pops and goes well with the orange band. So, while the updated backlight maybe better on the F6, the regular use (non backlight) of the Marq is far better for colors.
So, in short.. unless there is a MAJOR, MAJOR departure from the current design / functions of the Marq in the next update.. I really could not care any less (for my daily use). I got a good deal on my Marq as well, and I do think there maybe a chance future updates of this line will increase in price. So, I am super happy to have paid a little more vs. the F6 and get this one now :-)
So just wanted to share in case others are on the fence or think there is going to be some big update soon. Because I dont think its going to matter for most people unless there is a specific feature (like LTE) that you need etc.
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