Hard to argue, I agree. I read that article when it came out and it rather gave me The Fear. Chasing the mass market by dropping the features which distinguish the brand is a risky proposition in whatever sector, and it strikes me that Planet Watch is worse than most given the premium on perceived brand heritage and all that stuff (first instinct is to write “b*ll*cks” there but I know it appeals to some).
As to the new models: blah. To me they look undistinguished, generic and dull. Bremont were always marmite but I liked the distinctive designs and my ALT-1 GMT is a lovely thing with its enamelled crown, black barrel and textured dial. The design has a “voice”, even if its song is emphatically not to all tastes. These new ones are mute. Nothing to say, no means with which to say it.