Joey, " If Brooks vanished tomorrow, everyone here would likely find something comfortable to sit on."
Maybe, probably, but going to the Gucci and RR thing, if my b17 cost not that much more than a ton of bike seats on the market, and I'm comfortable on them, then the Gucci thing doesn't really hold-although I figure there's some truth in that because of the "look" that they have, I suspect lots of people buy them just for that.
I think its fair to say that for everyone, when you find a whatever seat that works well for you personally, a lot of people will stick to that model, whatever its made of. And folks spend tons of money searching for a seat that works best, mine just happen now to be a b17.
I think nowadays
most who purchase Brooks saddles are doing so for style. Thankfully so, because it keeps Brooks in business for those of you who get actual comfort and benefit from their saddles. As I said, I admire how they have not only survived but thrived with a product that is largely outdated.
On the flip-side...I still use a flip-phone. I have little use for the features offered and costs of a "smart" phone. Mine costs $5 a month and does way more than what I actually need it to do. It is a better shape for me to carry and the glass will likely never break. If I break it, they hand me a new one without purchasing insurance. So I am un-evolved when it comes to phones and have no problem with seeming less than modern. I know several people who own $400 phones and spend $100 a month but don't do anything more than I do with mine, ever. Fashion has it's price.
If it works, and you can afford Brooks, that is an awesome thing. I rode Brooks for decades and truly understand the love for them. I just found something I love even more.
Cheers