This is my perspective as well...... What does a gen sub have to offer over a TC, that justifies 10x or more in price? Given the current attention to detail of many reps out there right now, I don't see myself adding new gens to my watch box anytime soon.
I have no problem telling people I'm wearing a rep. In fact, my friends & co-workers look forward to seeing what I'll be wearing every day and marvel over the quality of the reps I have. Since I became aware of this hobby and bought my first reps, I have not worn my gen Chronomat Evo since........ It's just sitting in the lock-box.