I'm looking at private, individual GTGs, not by brands, so Yes, just making new friends with same hobby and passions.
That is true it's about the people. I typically bring a 3-watch roll at max, and wearing one.
Look at Wei K's Revolution YT...unfortunately I have never met Anthony and my 1st WPS GTG is the one in 2017 at NYC with you and rest of gang. That's very thoughtful of him to remind everyone for being cautious.
Like yourself, I don't like to beat up my watches, even it's meant to be worn, why not have both, right?