exspeedbird (excuse spelling)
I agree with you that airmanship still has to be gained...and like simmering a stew, takes a long time.
Glass can be fine...if the pilot has the time to learn it, understand it and practice it...and has a steam gauge backup that is big enough for old eyes to see easily. but airlines don't want to take the time to teach you...you will learn on the line is often a phrase I have heard.
But airmanship...that takes time...and a wee dram of luck.