The following two-hour episodes are among my favorites of the entire series:

Prescription: Murder
Ransom for a Dead Man
Rest in Peace, Mrs. Columbo
Negative Reaction
Agenda for Murder

Wow, I didn't realize that scene in "Make Me a Perfect Murder" struck such a sour cord with other viewers, as well! And I definitely agree that "Ransom for a Deadman" is one of the best, even quintessential, episodes. I'd have to say that I actually like "Last Salute to the Commodore", though. I think the script by itself is pretty lousy, but the fact that you have Falk,Vaughn, and the others delivering their lines with such delightful eccentricity makes the banal story glow with a certain charm it wouldn't otherwise have had.(Although I know I might be in the minority here)

I've always been attached to "COMMODORE" for the same reasons (and some others).

Glad to know there are others fond of "Commodore"!