I think they're called Essential Marvel, but I'm a colourist too, so I don't read them.
I totally agree with you on Excalibur being wicked awesome. I managed to pick up a surprising amount of the series in 25-cent bins, but it's certainly worth more that that.
I was reading some classic New Mutants recently, and I was struck with the fact that there was a time when Chris Claremont very imaginative. He's not up to par these days, but I think he had some pretty exciting ideas back in the day.

I had a friend who turned me on to Excalibur in the mid 90's and you're right, it is really amazing stuff. Part of that special feeling comes from the isolation this book had from the other X-Books. And England was a wonderful and interesting plus for the book to make it's own mythology. Sure, there would be guest appearances, but more often than not this book would treat its readers to entirely new characters and threats. Davis an Farmer were also amazing with the art chores on this book too.

Loved Excalibur, a true blast from the past...

Well that's weird. I was just looking into Excalibur the other day, deciding whether or not to try it and then this comes out. Guess that seals the deal. You should read my mind more often. Thanks, Alex!