On the contrary, I think the issues you state are overblown. I have been using a 1989 mfg IBM model M for close to 10 years now and haven't noticed any of the problems you point out. No problems with fit & finish or longevity... I use the keyboard for gaming (fps mostly) and coding and have never had a problems with KRO.
I haven't been impressed with the few other types of mechanical keyboards I've used (which I admit is not many). The key presses just don't feel as authoritative as the model m and the model m does feel like a tank.
The only knock I can give the model m is the lack of modifier keys and remapping. I use a soarers converter to remedy these problems.
That said, would I buy a unicomp repop, or a model m at current prices? No, probably not.
Same here, using an '89 Model M which I've modded to support native USB connectivity and also using QMK [0]. The ability to leverage all of the niceties of QMK (especially key remapping) combined with the feel of the Model M is what's kept it as my primary day-to-day keyboard some time now.
I haven't been impressed with the few other types of mechanical keyboards I've used (which I admit is not many). The key presses just don't feel as authoritative as the model m and the model m does feel like a tank.
The only knock I can give the model m is the lack of modifier keys and remapping. I use a soarers converter to remedy these problems.
That said, would I buy a unicomp repop, or a model m at current prices? No, probably not.