By-Tor, you said what I've been thinking. It was much more fun in the old days. Maybe because it was all new and underground. You'd see a new release and drool. Compared to what was out there they were gems. The original forum was so underground you felt a camaraderie with everyone on the boards.
We had some interesting characters that created some great debates and retorts (I do miss TTK). I remember many members posting they had just purchased a rep and WONDERED whether they would ever get it! I remember everyone obsessing over customs.
.....and the great debates over dealers and those feeling insulted!!
I was one of those who never obsessed over flaws. They all had flaws. If I liked it I wanted it.
I actually purchased close to 80 watches, just for the thrill of having the new models. I still have them......still wear them. Of course, they were all under $200 bucks. and they all still WORK.
Well, now that things have evolved.....multiple forums, going mainstream...but my interest in watches is still with me. I change watches the way I change clothes every day, I still get a thrill putting on a different one.
The one difference is that the "character" of the forums have changed. For all the advancement in reps, this was always about community. It's still here, it's just gone mainstream.
I used to spend hours here. Now, I just come by for a visit. Part of that is due to my own time constraints, part of it is due to the change in the character of the forum.
I do miss the unique place the forum of yesterday had.