GEC makes some pretty good knives. I prefer the larger models like the 98. Unfortunately it might not be made again.
That's a smaller wharnecliffe trapper that's pretty nice too. I also highly recommend the case /bose collaboration if you want a more modern traditional. Fit and finish is...
Bcm and lwrc for me. Pretty sure Mac on the tubes had a bcm going 5k rds without cleaning. I'd also recommend slip 2000 ewl and their grease. Just keep em lubricated and they do pretty well.
They are great for throwing. Have 3 that were forged. 2 with sharpened beards and top edges and one I sharpened myself. H&B forge makes a good one. Unfortunately prices have gone up but it's a one man operation. I like that you can bang the handle on something and take them down if you want...
Try a white eraser too if nothing else works. Not sure about other colors but the white polymer erasers work pretty well when you get metal transfer on DLC coatings.