A Series 8 would probably be a great deal if you can find one on a sites like Amazon. An always-on display matters more than you might think.
Nihiliste
No, I don't think so. I think the Watch might eventually evolve into a wraparound cuff with a flexible display, but you'd still call it a watch.
A bigger battery, damnit. I realize it's not realistic to achieve Garmin levels of longevity with the processor tech Apple is using, but c'mon - you shouldn't need to buy an Ultra to get something that lasts more than a day, and the Ultra should last at least 4 to 5 days, given that even Fitbits are capable of that.
A battery that lasts more than a day. Somehow, we've come to accept the idea that something our lives revolve around might die before we can get home to a charger.
Also, telephoto lenses on non-Pro models. I almost never need a distorted ultra-wide picture, but I do constantly wish I could zoom in on subjects, during concerts or travel.
I'll just swap in a more formal/conservative band if it seems warranted. It's 2023 - it's pretty normal to wear a smartwatch.