Thank you, and welcome to ELR.
I think there’s some confusion. Hopefully I can clear it up. The black one was the one that was almost like new, even the USB port was clean (which is one of the first things to get dirty and have lint, and dust etc.collect). It was also the one that was DOA (screen-wise).
The one I referred to as “well loved” is the red one, which works perfectly (aside from the 510 connection going bad, and spinning). It’s also the one that’s endured all the “abuse” (daily wear and tear), yet still functions properly.
To me, that only reaffirms my position that due to no abuse of the owner, the blue one died an “unnatural” death. What I’m hoping to find is why.
As for the condition of the paint (on the red one), I have a Cuboid 150w, that’s been an EDC, and the paint was the very first thing to go. It was not due to abuse, neglect, or mistreatment. Simply having it in my hands “wore the paint off”. Though, it’s more correct to say, whatever choice of paint, or something within the finishing process went wrong. Because within as little as 60 days, I was noticing wear. I don’t have acidic sweat, like some do, or I’d see similar wear effects on my guitar strings, saddles, tuning hardware, etc. So it’s not through fault of mine. 
Though paint issues have been an issue for a few manufacturers. Which is part of why it wasn’t worth mentioning to me when I did the write-up. I’m far more concerned with function over aesthetics (which anyone who’s been on ELR any length of time will attest to I’m sure).
That concern for functionality is also the same reason for the write-up. Thanks for reading, and for your participation!
Rock on, bro! \m/