Ya people just love to hate them for some reason. Maybe that means they're doing something right?

Good point about some straps not having access. Or if the fit is super tight it can be hard to remove.

Never understood why so many people love drilled lugs. They're not really any easier for changing straps. And if you're not careful you scratch the side of the lugs which really sucks, vs the back of the lugs which is no big deal.

I kind of feel similar. I got into watches about 6 years ago, which I guess was a good time, but didn't have much money to spend on watches as I was just out of college and focusing on paying those loans. Now that I have more money to spend, many of the watches I wanted back then have move up in price significantly. However, microbrands are the real game changer over the last 6 or so years. It's amazing what they are able to pull off for the money. So it's probably a bad time to get into watches if you want one of those brands like Rolex or even Seiko that are moving up in price, but it's also a better time than ever if you're willing to look past the brand and go micro. Heck, even on the fly micro adjustable clasps are becoming the norm on sub $1k sports watches. That was unthinkable 6 years ago. $500 today gets you a much better watch than $500 got you 6 years ago imo.

That's funny, I had the exact opposite experience. I remember trying on a Rolex for the first time and thinking, "really? This is what everyone is so hyped about?" It seemed super underwhelming to me. Whereas trying on a Grand Seiko for the first time (the Cherry blossom), it was the first watch that ever truly blew me away. I've always found Rolex looks amazing in pictures and videos and I start to think I want one, but then I try it on and think, meh. Difference in taste I guess.