When has a piece of equipment paid for itself??

I have encountered a phenomena that wasn't part of the decision process 20-30 years ago when considering new gear. You bought it because had heard it or read bout it etc. The one thing I never thought of was
What will this be worth at some later date? It seems thinking back on the era as absurd as if you would sell your T.V. Everyone seemed to use equipment get it repaired a few time and finall get a new on.
But this was a world without the Audiogons, auction sites, and lists. Just the "Paper."
If you sold something it would be to a friend or just a gift to someones nephew.
A friend of mine was considering buying amps I happen to own myself and find them outrageously good. They are relatively inexpensive mono blocs from China. If compared to another set of "prestige" amps that sound like these they would fetch at least 5 times thev price.
Even though they were lauded by the press with many awards and praise by the pro writers.
My friend turns to and says yes they very, very, good really great but what is their resale value going to be. I said resale whatever for and I don't think they would get you a nicee profit, mostly I was stunned. Since when did we start buying everything in terms of flip-ability.
I buy the gear because I like it and know full well that it will never win me a prestige or pride of ownership prize. In all liklihod I'll keep them for a long time.
I buy gear and keep it despite promising my wife I will sell it.
I will tell you that my old Buddy Trelja is selling some gear made by this firm. In the classifieds now. No it is not meant to be an ad. trust me. I just want to give people a chance to see what I am talking about. Moderators take this out if it offends thee.