I have removed the filter after the drain and pre-filter the water with a Brita filter, as I also need this otherwise. It works like this without any problems.

Ditto - Zurich seawater; don't see why this filter would need to be replaced.
Our last Nespresso machine ran for 12+ years without a single descaling/cleaning. Sorry.

It was similar for me. But since we always use filtered water (Brita jug, regular filter changes), I don't change the filter in the machine. It's only in there because it has to be.
But I also find the price for a cartridge outrageously high...