I can see both points, I like the OHJ for orientation of the airfield and situational awareness, but the mental picture can also be built up from miles away, listening out for people lining up and also joining the circuit, so the idea of the American style 45 degree join does appeal to me, that's the way I join at Breighton and that's the only place I've flown into with live side joins, flying from Sherburn I've seen all sorts of joining techniques, some good and, erm, some bad!
Cheers, Jim