I agree with Stephane's interpretation of the PM he received. I happen to live in the US, probably in the epicenter of the busiest and rudest place in the world, just outside NYC.
Shortly after I first joined this site; during the time I was beginning to have interest in vintage rolex, I PM'd some of the folks here who I thought were "in the know".
I can distinctly remember starting off a couple PM's with "I know we haven't spoken before, and I hope you don't mind helping a total stranger..."
I realized I was asking someone of their valuable time, and I certainly did not feel "entitled" to any of their consideration. However, I received some very polite and helpful responses. As an unexpected bonus, I ended up making some friends here, and even getting the chance to meet some of the smartest and interesting people I ever have during a GTG in NYC last year.
I've received a few PM's very similar to the one Stephane quoted... hmm.. whatever happened to those PM's I received?