I think taking the belt off is going the way of the old traditional pens or one diameter as some called them.
Don't get me wrong I like it as I did them, but there were so many criticisms of it creating a weak spot and looking unfinished.
Styles and fashions change and we all have to find our way in our experiments, always searching for something new or what we deem to be new.
Great effort and stunning wood I like it.