I agree with you, John. The repros can be expensive, but most of the time, the repros are because the originals are made of unobtanium. On the other hand, I thought trying to find an ashtray was a fools errand. Nobody's even making repros of them - but then Certified Lotus found one!! I guess it boils down to whether it's worth it to look for an original and possibly find one you like or buy a bright shiny repro. Sometimes the hunt can be more valuable than the money.