I also like the grinding sound of the postwar accessories. That, plus their toylike quality, adds to their charm. I like blending in postwar accessories, 022 switches and tubular track with realistic scenery, which is a hi-rail look. My modern engines (mostly MTH) look great running through my post war layout.
I am totally unfamiliar with the modern accessories of manufacturers other than Lionel.
What I am about to say may be weird, but in my experience, the Lionel post war accessories are more reliable than the re-issues of them. Never had a problem with my postwar 282 gantry crane and postwar icing station, but I have had problems with the reissues of these accessories in the early 2000s.
My layout is pretty chocked full of Lionel accessories. I can't add more without removing others already on the layout. If I had more space, I would consider adding post war American Flyer accessories, which I think also have great charm.
