I found the Raymarine 54E is a nice alternative. Much easier to navigate even in the dark. It will work well for a good period of time, but some of the aesthetic are lost quickly, though this doesn’t affect the performance.

Aesthetics’ really are the last thing on my mind when looking at a radio. What do you navigate with – a wheel?

Have not tested the 'waterproof' aspects of my Icom - M71, but otherwise its performance has been robust with effectively clear reception even when attached to a belt and overall, thoroughly reassuring.