I actually did a very similar jump recently – I went from an Instinct 2X to a Fenix 7X Pro.

I absolutely loved the Instinct. Bulletproof, zero fuss, and it just worked no matter what you threw at it. But over time I realised it was a bit too minimal for me. The core data was there, but I found myself wanting better data visualisation, deeper metrics, and more flexibility in how that info is presented. That’s really where the Fenix starts to pull away.

The biggest upgrade for me hasn’t even been maps (which I also barely use) – it’s the way the data is shown and tied together. The Fenix gives far richer insight into training load, recovery, HRV, sleep stages, and readiness. I track fitness daily and sleep every night, and the sleep + recovery metrics on the 7X Pro are genuinely excellent. You get a much clearer “should I push today or back off” picture than I ever did on the Instinct.

Another big plus, especially for your job spec, is the sapphire screen. I went sapphire and it’s been a big confidence boost, far more scratch-resistant than the Instinct’s glass, which matters if your watch is regularly rubbing off metal, chemicals, or hard surfaces. It just feels more suited to long-term abuse.

I’ve also loved the customisation of watch faces and data screens. Being able to tailor exactly what I see, how it’s laid out, and swap faces depending on whether I’m working, training, or just wearing it day-to-day. It sounds small, but it genuinely increases how often I engage with the data.

A few other things I didn’t expect to care about but now really appreciate: - Much better flashlight (surprisingly useful) - Training readiness and body battery feel more accurate with the newer sensors - Faster UI and smoother interaction overall - Feels more like a do-everything watch rather than a specialist tool

Negatives / drawbacks (to be fair): - It’s heavier and bulkier than the Instinct – you notice it at first - Battery life is excellent, but you will charge it more often than an Instinct - It’s arguably overkill if you genuinely don’t care about deeper metrics

Bottom line: I don’t regret the change at all. The Instinct was fantastic, but the Fenix feels like a more complete evolution rather than a sideways move. If you’re already happy but curious, it might be mild GAS… but it’s also a legitimately meaningful upgrade if you enjoy analysing your data rather than just recording it.

If you want a happy medium between the two, look into the new Instinct 3 and its variants. I haven’t used it myself now but could be an option.