Yes the utility is definitely useful. Timex watches are great, love their Indiglo feature. Makes using a watch in dark situations not such a PITA. On top of that, they've been around a long time and have a great history as a watchmaker company despite their cheap prices. Nice designs as well. Seiko and all of the others brands you listed are pretty good for the most part. Citizen has nice watches and features too.

Better watch yourself in the future, watches can become a pretty big hobby. Next thing you know, you find yourself buying a Rolex or an Omega and then you sort of contemplate and think to yourself , "Have I gone too far......Nah!!". Then you have your SO questioning you like "Honey, I think it's time to take a break from the watches for a little while...."

Yeah, I personally think watches are great and timeless too...Plus you can pass them on to others as well. Highly recommend http://forums.watchuseek.com/forum.php if you have any concerns about brands or watches in general. Great community.