Literally driving across America this summer - swing by AD's worthwhile or no?

[kip595]

I recently found out that for unexpected (but very pleasant) reasons I'll be driving cross-country to begin a new position; having been recruited by a group and selling my portion of my current small business.

I haven't driven such a long distance in years, since well before the great 'Rolex shortage', but used to enjoy popping into random AD's and even second-hand jewelers when I would regularly commute from the Gulf Coast to L.A.

While I've little doubt there will be still some gems (perhaps too expensive, but such is inflation) here and there at second hand and estate jewelers, anybody think stopping at actual AD's will have any point? Particularly as in these I'll be completely unestablished as a patron.

Particularly curious as my route will be primarily along the sort of 'mid-west' freeways, largely the 29 and 64, which I don't think I've driven at all, except in brief day trips.

All thoughts appreciated, no AD bashing or anything please, just curious as to everyone's thoughts.