The CRT I'm currently using is an LG 221U - Display - CRT - 21" - 1880 x 1440 / 75 Hz - 0.26 mm - VGA (HD-15)...so I guess I am a recipient of your admiration now? LOL.
It does have it's own problems of curved lines at the top of the monitor (sagging?). I probably should have this looked at...depending on the cost for repairs. Actually I picked this up from my last employer...for free...as that Engineering office was moving over to Dell setups with LCD monitors. So I guess the CAD world is no longer the benchmark for monitor size, resolution or clarity (ie. pixel pitch).
I've not seen too many magazine reviews of LCDs based on the Photographers' needs rather it all seems to be Gamers that they direct their articles to. As a Gamer is looking at imagery that's been computer generated and by someone else they have nothing to compare with for true color rendition but the contrast range is a primary concern of theirs (For those times you play Doom and move from darkest dungeons to sunlit outdoors). As I'm not a Gamer I'm making a supposition...so don't nuke me.
Okay...so if CRTs are going to be the dinosaurs of monitors and will become extinct what are the qualities and features of LCD monitors we should be looking for? I'm not willing to pay an arm/leg for an LCD unless I can be pretty assured that it's going to last me for a few years and 'pay for itself'.
(In regards to the 21" CRT monitors...they took up a LOT of desktop real estate. Even now this LG Studioworks 221U that I have forces me to type at the edge of the desk. Luckily I've got it into the corner of the room otherwise the keyboard would be on my lap!)