Would it be okay if I only look at the clock or timer and ignore the other bits of data presented by my GPS? Generally that's what I do. The GPS is mostly there just to record what I'm doing and when I'm doing it. I'll look at that data well after the ride is over. It's rare I even navigate with it.
So for the most part I agree with you! I like looking around me too. That's why I pedal so frantically, so I can see more in the limited time I have to pedal.