I kind of agree with both of you. The word detail has been coopted. It used to mean alot more. I particularly dislike Meguires forums because they are just shilling. Its like hanging out with Rollo...
I have a real detail guy I use here in town. 300 bucks. Full clay bar, wet sand, interior material refreshing, under body wash with hand applied synth of my choice.
Spraying crap with slick mist does not a detail make.
Even back in the late 80's details were usually just a wash, interior clean, 'fast' wax and dressings.
Back then I didn't have machines and at the time 'hand-waxing' was much more popular.
I'd charge $150-200 and be there a whole day. Sometimes $200-300 for two days. I'd take out seats even. I couldn't afford to do that today and would be scared if someone else was charging only that for good work (like not bashing a seat against the door panel when removing it...that happened to one of my cars and the asshats wanted to say it was 'expected'...I ended up getting made right).
What you are talking about esp with wet sanding is a restoration.
IMHO hand application is not worth it anymore and most good products don't work well unless machine applied. A random orbital of a quality design will be much better than most hand appliers.
I have a ton of detailing products. Porter Cable polisher, edge 2000 system, halogens, etc...full arsenal. A few grand of supplies and equipment.
I have been doing it a long time.
Unless you have neglected your car many people are too elitist, and over spending.
If you have neglected your car, hire a rotary polisher guy even if a full wet sand and profit...just make sure he knows what he is doing.
Things I'd love is a hot water extractor and some more machine gadgets.
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