1) I think the pick-guard looks very out of place, so aesthetics I guess. I play mostly fingerstyle, so I don't need it anyway. If I change my mind later, I'd put a clear one on (like my Lowden has).
2) Jim told me that the GSM's in general are fast movers, and the GSMM's more so. I don't think it's a story. If your dealer is really moving them that quickly, he shouldn't object to holding one for a week or so until you can see it. If you don't want it, it'll sell anyway.