This is not a new question, has been discussed quite a bit elsewhere, but I cannot find a resolution to it that works for me. I understand the variable effects that taping the spine will have on the bevel and further finishing, but:

I tape to preserve the pristine appearance of the spine. I have a few really nice razors that I am just not going to chew up on a 1K Norton. So I tape. I know there are knowledgeable members here (Hi Bud!) who don't like taping, presumably because it complicates honing. It's also a PITA because the tape must be replaced, and I'm almost through my first roll of tape.

So, is there a compromise here? At what level grit does honing not affect the spine? I'm concerned about spine wear, of course, but I'm a bit of a perfectionist about how the razor looks, and I don't want the appearance of a new razor to be degraded by my honing. Do people just not care about this? Honemeisters will tape a spine for customers. Why can't I do it for my own razors?