Confused about factory for 126500 and 126519

Ive now been going down the research rabbit hole and just as I thought I was coming to the end, I came across a conundrum. I was looking to pick up a 126500 and remember the factory suggested for 126500 was clean. Recently though I saw it was changed to vsf. I understand now that clean is no longer in operation, but I am wondering in an ideal scenario is the clean still the best, but recommendation has changed to vsf because of availability ? Or has vsf made recent improvements so it’s now actually better than what clean made 6-12 months ago?

Additionally for the 126519, I’m not sure if any factory makes any that are worth getting ? If so which ones. if I was to get it, would gold plating improve the quality ? I don’t mind spending an additional 400-600$ to improve the watch if it makes a significant difference.

Finally, people mention that the bracelets on these still aren’t perfect and can be rough and require polishing. How do I get these polished? Is that something a td can offer or something I go to someone else for ?

Appreciate the help!