I was privileged to have commanded every Boeing and Douglas commercial jet ever designed. Including the Classic 747-100, 200, F, and SP, on which I spent the better part of 15 years and 10,000 Hrs.
I can unequivocally say the "Rope Start" 747 was the best flying machine in terms of safety, stability, durability, agility, speed and ease of flying I have ever flown!
The younger sisters, 777 and 787 maybe far advanced in technology and economy. But they could never match the beauty and grace of their older sibling. Therefore the 747 shall for ever, remain the undisputed "Queen of the Skies!"