Test drive a lower-cost alternative before a big purchase?

[Wiseguy724]

Has anyone picked up watch at lower price point to see if a style or colorway "jives" with them before making a move on something more expensive? Eventually trading/selling the first one towards the higher end piece?

I am currently very interested in a Hublot Black magic classic fusion, however I've never had a triple black watch before, so making my first one such a big ticket item had me thinking a bit.

In the meantime I thought about getting the full ceramic Longines hydroconquest, it's a similar colorway, has a rubber strap that integrates to the case nicely, and a similar folding clasp. I do like it in isolation so it's not like it was only on my radar b/c of it's similarity to the Hublot. It may be a keeper by itself

I know a majority of people here have the income to buy what they like for the most part, but maybe someone has done something similar and has a story to share.

Edit: forgot to mention I have tried on the Hublot in person and loved it while I was in the store, haven't tried the Longines yet.