If it could stay just one year technologically forever...

[mr_fixer]

I'd pick 1997, the internet was new and not so populated with pop-ups, viruses, spam and spoof sites. My first internet computer worked for 7 years and never broke down. It used windows 95 and never had a problem with it. Back then used electronics still had some value, before we went to a totally disposable society. I needed some quick cash 6 months ago and tried to pawn my 2 year old Sanyo 27" TV set. They would not take it for any amount, not even 5 bucks. I remember in the 80's getting old color tv's and fixing then and people paying me real money for them.
and cars you could work on, my friend has a 2004 Chevy trailblazer that you unbolt the front clip to replace headlight bulbs. The dealer must do it and imagine a $200 bill to change you headlights. I miss the old days, Logan

[peverett]

I am like Andy, I like 2008. I do not hate digital, I just want it to work at least as well as the analog I now have(and to have the converters to be able to use my old TVs). I also like the internet, PCs, etc. As to tube TVs, I just enjoy working on them. I am very aware that a solid state television could be built(but is not) that would outlast any tube type television.

In fact, I make my living designing digital integrated circuits, so I definitely am in favor of digital in the proper applications.

Some have mentioned cars. To me modern cars are a mixed bag based on experience so far. Modern cars outdo the early ones with electronic fuel injection/engine control(much better than carbs) and safety(antilock brakes, air bags, crumple zones, handling, etc). Where they fall down is all of the plastic crap used on them such as plastic wheel covers, plastic/aluminum radiators, and plastic door handles. These are items that have failed(within 5 years no less) on the modern cars that I have owned. The metal equivalants on my 30+ year Mustang continue to work fine. Of course, it is true you can work on the older cars yourself(not true of the modern ones).

I did see an article indicating that in general, as people age, they tend to collect/like the things of their youth. Possibly this is part of the reason old TVs, radios, cars, etc. are collected. I see nothing wrong with this as it does help preserve historical items.