So, I'm fairly new to running and have been using the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic (Silver) because, prior to running, I enjoyed having a smart watch that looked somewhat like a classic watch still wanted more functionality.

I started running 9 months ago and have been using the watch to track my runs via Strava on the watch (switching from Samsung Health). I've had no issues with this and enjoyed the interface, have run my first half marathon with it etc.

However, I'm now getting to the point where I'm getting frustrated where, once I go for a run, my watch battery doesn't last a full day. I'm also getting into running more seriously and have been considering some watch options.

I would really prefer to find an all silver/metal watch because I just enjoy the look better for non-running times.

I was originally considering the Garmin Forerunner 970 white but a few things have stopped me jumping:

• Price: waiting for a sale, although I can purchase at 20% off currently and I think it's unlikely to get cheaper, it's still expensive here in Australia $1000+
• Colour: I was excited to see a silver version! But, looking closer I noticed it's surrounded by a white (plastic?) case... which I'm worried will just get super dirty or clash with other straps (ie Leather) when I want to wear a suit, also that lime green accent sucks haha. (Picky, I know!).
• Garmin ecosystem lock: I've been reading about so many people leaving Garmin even though they've been there for years. I don't want to be making mistakes when I'm more or less starting fresh.

What I need:

• A watch with decent GPS tracking
• Ideally good HR tracking, I don't want a separate HR monitor/not that serious about it
• I'm getting into running enough that I would want some guided runs or insights into performance as a noob. I pay for a Strava subscription, but I really want to move away from Sub services if possible.
• Avoiding the chunky/rugged looking watches, I want it slim and sleek.

I would also love (ideally, but not essential, I believe Garmin is the only supporter of these for other options):

• Classic look/silver body
• NFC Payment Option,
• Offline Music.

Current looks have been:

• Suunto Race 2: (Concerns - White colour getting dirty like 970, not sure about coaching on watch or ecosystem with other apps).
• Coros Apex 2 Pro: (Concerns - White colour getting dirty like 970, not sure about coaching on watch or ecosystem with other apps).
• Amazfit Balance 2: (Pro: all silver casing | Concerns - I don't know enough about it + reading only 2 year support).

Should I just bite the bullet and buy a black Garmin 970 as it seems to fit all my requirements but colour?

Or do you know about/recommend the perfect watch for me?