Seriously big lathes
I wasn't at the symposium either, but I've said on several other posts (concerning really heavy duty lates) that I can't quite understand anyone's concern about longevity of a company. All lathes are built with standard bearings (save perhaps the VB with sleeve ones) that can be bought at most any place selling them. The motors and controllers are all the same. What's different is the castings, dimensions, materials, etc. I don't have to go to Jet for a replacement belt, bearings, motor, controller (I've a variable) - or even tool rest for my mini! I seriously doubt the bed will ever split in two; the headstock fall off; or any other cast piece fail.
My large lathe is a Stubby, but I also respect the Robust and Serious (and any other one someone is attached to!). All are also made the same as my Jet Mini - I can get belt, bearings, motor, controller, and tool rests from many sources than my manufacturer/distributor.
Bottom line is that you've GOT to determine what your requirements and real needs are, and then pick the tool that best meets them. If you don't spend some time thinking this through, you'll regret it down the road.