Don't have any illuminated reticles, but I have looked thru a few. The last being a Weaver. Seems to me their possible advantage is not just early and late, but in that they naturally draw the eye to a central aiming point for when things are happening quickly. Much the same as fiber optic open sights. Not saying they are necessary, but I do see where they can be useful.
If durability is a given, then I think they will eventually become more common in use.
