I've seen antique quilts pieced with one inch strips too. A gazillion strips! Very graphic.
I agree that it sort of depends on the size of the quilt. A small baby quilt or wall hanging would have very few blocks if made with 2 1/2' strips, so you'd get less repeats, and it wouldn't be as graphically pleasing.
But different strokes for different folks. The only person who needs to be pleased with your quilt is YOU!