Jeff,

I think there are a lot of collectors for whom dirt on the dial (which after cleaning may change to nice patina) and a faded bezel is not so important.
If you buy a 50 year old toolwatch it´s just O.K. if it shows signs of wearing.
I guess it´s a kind of understatement, because everybody who is really into vintage watches will see the beauty of the Autavia GMT. The others, who cares?

It´s just an other way of collecting, it´s the perfection of imperfection instead looking to the NOS never worn treasure watches.
Both is O.K., but reading OTD and other forums I feel that a lot of collectors move towards this direction.
I´ve got some near mint chronos in my small collection, but my hearts get´s wide open when I see my used ones...
for example my Autavia 3646, even if I could not find original dauphin hands for a reasonable price.