Hi John.
Let me tell you that I have some doubts on the economic reasons ! That’s why I don’t believe that American’s are “ugly capitalist” ;).
Charm and beauty must be part of our live, otherwise what’s the point ? I’ll probably never own a skippera although I love that watch very much. But I prefer to see it at the wrist of a charming lady that on the page of a catalogue. “You may say I’m a dreamer … but I’m not the only one” (J.Lennon).