I won't dispute your point, only remark that ntfsfix, as other ntfsprogs, tries very hard to be conservative, and bail out if unsupported metadata is found.
For my cases, it has worked correctly. One recurring problem is with a NTFS formated pen disk, that sees some hard shutdowns.
ntfsfix is the equivalent fsck.ntfs
It comes in the package ntfsprogs.
Enough cicky-clack to annoy your workmates, and a good feel to it.
Never had a Model M, though, so I can't give a comparison.
Also, I only have slight problems with the lack of key information w.r.t. the top row (numbers and symbols on top). YMMV, of course.
The one day you'd sell your soul for something, souls are a glut.