I think Mark's photo of the tripod was shot with the head de-emphasized by lack of focus
I have 5 Gitzos, including the tallest tripod they made over 20 years ago (can't remember the name) with the full crank center column that was the platform for my 4X5 and 8X10 Sinar Ps, a couple that are similar vintage but smaller that I used for medium format and video and a G1548 MK2 Mountaineer. All have worked without issue for thousands upon thousands of setups. They look like they've been there and done that, they have without a single problem. Thousands of mile of travel, dozens of drops by assistants and baggage carriers, rolled around in the trunk, fell off the donkey, you name it, they took the abuse.
Now I use the G1548 MK2 with a self leveling base and a Foba ball head or RRS pano kit. No vibration issues, plenty stable and light to carry.
I still pull out the 4X5 P and shoot film on the big one, always sharp images.
But then I'm not a reviewer, just a pro with 30+ years of experience who has no reason to fix what isn't broken.