What makes the 1963 Split Window so special?

I recently had the chance to see a 1963 Split Window Coupe at a local show and I was completely blown away. The craftsmanship on that divided rear window is unlike anything else in automotive history. Only produced for one model year, the split window design was actually controversial at the time — Zora Arkus-Duntov reportedly wanted it removed for better visibility. But today it's arguably the most collectible Corvette ever made. I've seen pristine examples going for well over $150K at auction. Does anyone here own one or have a story about their first encounter with a Split Window? I'd love to hear what draws you to the early C2 generation.