I'm also in the market for a large piece of luggage. Unlike some others, IMO this is the best choice of where to put "investment dollars" since it puts the test on the quality of the luggage. I'm not in control of it when it leaves my hands. I've been a Hartmann fan forever. I have had a huge garment-bag piece for about 20 years, and it's still in good working order, it just doesn't spin like the new stuff, and still doesn't in the newest model.

I never heard of Briggs-Riley, but have read the consumer reports reviews of big pieces, and it relegates other brands to a lower level than in the past, including Hartmann and Samsonite. But it costs the same as about one day on the ship! Better than Hartmann, that costs a day and a half! With Ngaire and Carolyn's rec's I'm about convinced, because they have 10 year experience.