I have about a dozen Rimowa bags, about half aluminum and the others are poly salsas.

All of them were purchased before the LV takeover. Since the takeover, they have become more expensive, and more of a fashion brand, while losing some of the features I liked - like the strap to carry an additional case. I won't be buying more. I travel nearly every week, and am approaching 3 million flight miles. I load my cases heavily (usually between 50-70 pounds) and often use the aluminum cases for equipment.

Once these cases were a good deal when purchased in Germany, but after the LV takeover I can no longer order them at German prices - which were in the range of $400 for a large Salsa and $700 for a large aluminum. I've had to have a few locks replaced, the corners riveted a few times, and replaced one wheel. The aluminum gets beat to hell instantly. I managed to destroy one case after about 10 years when the frame just kind of crumbled from being bent so many times. I had 2-3 salsas crack - returned them to my service location, and Rimowa replaced them with brand new bags.

So in summary, I think the older bags were a great value, but if I had to replace them, I probably wouldn't buy Rimowa now. I probably have enough to last me until I retire and stop traveling.....