Really great post. I agree. This argument that Rolex used to be less luxury is often used in a way to feel superior to people buying modern Rolex for “the wrong reasons.”

38-44mm for my 7” wrist. For me a lot depends on how simple or complicated a watch is. If it’s a chronograph, I don’t mind the larger size… or if it has a dive bezel that shrinks the dial. But if it’s simple and all dial, smaller works better for me. 

mine is my IWC top gun chrono:

In your shoes I would choose the Breguet. Its a haute horology brand doing what they do best, whereas the IWC feels like a mid level brand stretching to do a high level complication. I’m sure IWC does it well, but it’s well beyond what they’re known for, if that makes sense. 

Diver: Blancpain Fifty Fathoms tribute to milspec

pilot: IWC Top Gun Chronograph 

sport: Zenith Chronomaster Original

dress: Lange 1

The size looks perfect on you. I don’t think you should regret!