> I don't see any rational argument for a Model M in 2023. There are so many options in keyboards that are more modern, quiet, well built, compact and yet feel nicer to type on.

This is a highly subjective take. Just taking myself as an example, an original Model M feels far nicer to type on to me personally than any of the other modern mechanical keyboards that people often recommend.

There are absolutely rational arguments for a Model M. Just as there are rational arguments for other keyboards too. You just have to try to look at it more objectively and try to match to people's own unique personal preferences.