Friends:
All of your commentary is most fascinating. And I never expected to see this thread live so robustly. In view of many thoughts, especially those of colin Kendall, this experience comes to mind:

Years ago I was privileged to chat with Peter Blaine, then General Manager at Purdey's Audley House. I asked him what he saw as his major role there. This was his response:

"To make people comfortable with spending this much on a gun."

I recall this because he said nothing about mechanisms, fit, finish, dimensions, models, delivery times, etc. Instead, his primary mission was to engage (sell) the customer on the experience and pride of dealing with Purdey. The product stood on its own merits.

Best, Kensal