atmasphere6,176 posts05-08-2018
The SL1200G is a complete from-the-ground-up redesign and only shares its appearance with the older SL1200s. Its a very well-thought out design; is more speed stable and has considerably more damping and a very dead plinth. IMO they should have made it look different if just to avoid the obvious confusion people have thinking is nearly the same as its predecessors and look-alikes.
I have a 1210Mk5 and 2 x1210Mk5g. I love the iconic look. To my eyes the big attraction of the new models is that they have retained this look. I have never heard anyone getting confused, and I bet you didn't get confused either.