The Rolex example was just that, an example. You are absolutely right, there are many more expensive watches that are lighter. I never liked the design of the Pateks, personally, I prefer Bell & Ross, which typically range up to around $200K and would be lighter than a Rolex. However, I think the analogy still holds. With something like the Patek, you are paying for style and (perceived) status. I would still bet on a Rolex over a Patek for build quality and durability any day. The Rolex case is carved from a solid chunk of metal (gold, platinum, etc) and has high quality mechanical movement pieces. It is a solid, durable, quality machine.
Like i said, I wanted to like the iPhone 5. I really didn't even think about the reduced weight until I held it in my hand. Then I instantly knew it wasn't for me. I like high quality things, that's why I buy Apple products in the first place. The iPhone 5 just doesn't feel quality.
To answer your question, I don't know why I prefer heavier. It's an aesthetic thing. A perceived quality thing. I don't know. I just do
Don't misunderstand. I totally get the heavier feels better/higher quality than light and cheap belief, I've felt that way too, about many things. I'm just pointing out that in some areas it's misleading. And I agree, it's almost counter-intuitive. Heavy does *seem* like a stronger product using better materials, but in some products, it's not necessarily true.
We're all entitled to our personal aesthetic.
I do often equate weight with quality. In the case of the IP5, I'm not sure it's accurate. Anodized aluminum over glass, which is probably mostly responsible for the weight reduction, wouldn't seem to me to be a lowering of quality. As for strength/durability, aluminum dents and scuffs, glass chips and shatters. It's a toss up really. My phones are always in a case so I'm not all that concerned. I was surprised to see the video though where the 5 did better in drop testing than the plastic S3.
