As with most things, I just knew. I can see it even when I cannot pin point what it is that made it appeal to me. It is mostly the vein/sinewy muscle movement on the trunk. Also the compact branch placements with similar twisted movement.
BTW, I posted my choice for best (#5 and #2) as well as the best raw tree (#4) on Facebook before the results. Also posted it on this thread (see post #17)
You're so kind. I know I am not at that level yet because, I kept looking at your sketch and back to the tree. I know it is very doable and all the components are there but I really did not see it the way you did. Hopefully someday.