So you have never used a I? I have a I, and if I ever have to get another it would be a II for the reasons you state. Just wondering if you or anyone else has actually used both versions.
you can't go wrong with either of them. i have the one with the brass bar and it's pretty durable. if need be, you can pull the brass bar right out and clean/wipe it...
I too use the (I) but have considered the (II). I like the idea of the won't-corrode plastic construction, but *for me* the sliding bar is easier/more intuitive than the dial would be, but that's just *me*.