hogwldfltr wrote:
mmiller wrote:
hogwldfltr wrote:
FWIW, I'm also a Martin guitar collector. Martin makes all different levels of instruments for the different market demands.
That isn't really the same. When we build stuff for the Hobie 16... it is expected to be class legal for racing and of a certain quality. On the Wave, we don't have the same constraint, so we build several levels of sails and other parts.
For Martin... they have no (class racing) rules that guide their sales.
Who's expectations; easy enough to mark things for the different markets. People will buy what they want whether or not Hobie supplies it. If Hobie doesn't they'll go else where. Case in point.
I look at it as Hobie built a reputation on Quality. A friend has a Hobie 16 with sail number 1612. I am guessing this is a 71-72 model Hobie. Original Sails, yes, they are worn out now, 41-42 years later. But his boat is plenty fast and will fly a hull still! That is quality, Yes, they could build lighter weight sails, but it would only last half as long, and cost would not be half as cheap...... In the long run, your better off buying and paying for Quality. Just like the Tramps. Yes, their are AM tramps out there, some pretty good, but none will last as long.
Bottom line, they will not skimp on quality just to gain a few customers.