"""OK, I never really liked that insipid colour scheme"""
I'd say the times had alot to do with the color style,alot of things were 2-tone.. But i guess the amps fit in with the hair doos or hair don'ts of that time. Now they would look nice as matching end tables..
You probably know this site, but for those who don't,it has some interesting WEM details and amp pics and info..
http://www.valveamps.com/wemindex.htm
Richie