Regarding the small-rivet-is-better view, B17s can also be had in narrow sizes for those who run into the wider standard size with the tops of their thighs while pedaling. Incidentally, Brooks insists that they have never made the B17N in anything but black but they can be had in honey from St. Johns Cyclery. (I've heard the explanation that the honey were an OEM's special order and therefore don't count somehow.) B5Ns are still available NOS, but as to which was better quality, this saddle or the Wright W3N, I think it can often be a toss-up and comes down to the individual saddle. It appears that Brooks had some pretty serious QC problems years ago and I've seen Brooks saddles that made it into shops with splits in the leather, etc. (Remember that some of the older ones come from the time when it was not a good idea to buy a car made on a payday!) Sometimes the older thinner leather versions are easier to break in. Just a few more or less random thoughts for those who want the thinness of the Pro but may be thinking about the B17 and its predecessors.
Tom Cox
Detroit, MI