Like you, I’m a fan, but all that machine work cost $$$….they couldn’t compete with much cheaper guns (all with polymer frames).I wish S&W hadn't quit making the 3rd generation semi auto's. They were beautiful, solid pistols. They keep changing around their plastic versions. Too much, "out with the old, and in with the new".
The only S&W semi auto I would buy now would be a long barreled Model 41. And that's because I already have the short barrel. The Model 52 is a also beautiful target pistol. Another one they shouldn't have discontinued.
Still, the 3rd Gen was the apex of their auto pistol craftsmanship.