Quote Originally Posted by AlanII View Post
75% functition, 25% cosmetics but it's more like 80:20. I do love the way they look though.
I would second this opinion in general.

What I look for most of all in items of all categories, is a nice "fit and finish". Things I buy don't have to look "trick" or "bling" (in fact, I prefer if they don't), but I want them to have a solid feel, and to seem well built - the feeling of QUALITY. I'm often willing to pay extra for that feel.

For the shanks of a razor, I think my primary concern would be function and stability. I'd want to see some thickness to them (so they're not feeling flimsy), a solid feeling hinge action, and for them to have a nice fit against the blade.