my 2cents worth:
a. If one wears a replica, it may not mean that he is not able to afford the real McCoy. He could be fascinated with the design, but not the price. Ethics aside, there are many factors why someone chooses to wear a rep. I have gens and I have the rep for my gen. I don't see anything wrong with that. Whatcha gonna do, chop my wrist off?
b. If one wears a gen, do not automatically assume that he could REALLY afford one. You and I would not know the financial obligations and resources that the gen wearer has. Often, our choices in luxuries of life boil down to how much we really want something, and the sacrifices made to get that something.
c. It is purely a man's own business, whether he chooses to wear a gen, rep, franken, or gaudy toy watch from Toys 'R Us. There is the question of good taste of course, but let each man wear his watch of choice and face the consequences, be it compliments, deride, criticism or downright debasement.
d. There is nothing we can do, to stop anyone from choosing to wear a gen or rep. The sun will rise tomorrow, bringing with it fair shares of wearers of both gen and rep watches, and it shines on both camps equally. (Unless you're in Alaska, sorry Nanuq )
e. Collecting and appreciation replica watches is a hobby. To me, there are a lot more possibilities of modifying and trading them with other enthusiasts. I am a gen owner,and I do own watches that go beyond the run-of-the-mill gens. But no, I don't hate rep owners at all. I like to mingle, interact with, learn from and trade with rep owners, because I am ALSO a rep owner. I find this community a lot more fun, candid and knowledgable than the gen forums I joined. A lot less upturned noses too. Who gives a damn if you own a gen or rep? As long as you enjoy it, its all good. There will always be differences in opinions, but you have a choice of who to listen to (and who to give a good kick in the nuts to).