I have three Skagens of different sizes and still wear them all. The oldest was a birthday gift 25 years ago. So I must differ with your watch guy.
I like the Nixon watches and own one, but they're almost all too big a face for my taste.
Like you, I prefer a leather band and an easily readable face. I have Marc Jacobs, Fossil, and Michael Kors watches in this style, but they are all five to ten years old and the styles have changed.
You might like the Projects watches. They took over the Sointu designs and are often seen in museum stores. MOMA, MOCA, MCA Chicago, etc. They tend to be very severe black and white designs or very mod and colorful! The Nordgreen watches are also very sleek, and are available from 28 to 36 mm. Nordgreen.com
Finally, the Mondaine (below) is a classic and yet very modern looking to my eye. Most are under $300. Leather and metal bands and a range of face sizes.
