Thanks to all for your suggestions...
A couple thoughts:
1) The Blancpain sounds like a great watch. I am however a bit concerned regarding what I have read online regarding post-ownership service (I know, could be a few data points)
2) The Grand Seiko is a beautiful watch, but I am thinking long and hard about whether I want lume in this watch (function and a bit sporty)
3) With regard to Rolex, the only watch in their current line-up that I might consider is a Datejust (perhaps a 116234, 116201 or 116231). The GMT leans a bit sporty for this piece IMO.
4) I think the thickness of the Omega may be too much at 14 mm, the regular calendar version is not available in a black dial (just a black/silver)
I also considered a Breguet Marine Large Date, Varcheron Constantin Overseas Auto, Audimars Piguet Royal Oak Auto, Ulysse Nardin Maxi Marine Chronometer and a Chopard LUC Pro One GMT
Again thanks much for sharing your thinking with me...
Bob