Solid post Kevin.
I completly agree with you statements, change is tough but eventually we all learn to except them. My main concern with change is that they stay true to their history and keep the tool watches tool watches. Rolex did good with the ss sub, and thank goodness for no pcl's.
No only concern is the price point they are getting into. Once I commit to spending that much on a watch, I am going to seriously look at other brands like Blancpain or Ulysse Nardin.