Crystalizing some principles:

* Durable is more impressive than expensive. There can be a lot of overlap but they aren't the same.

* Durable items with evidence of their durability (nicely aged) are the most impressive.

* Trends don't matter but innovation does. A new way to do something can be exciting especially if it solves old problems in a fresh way.

* This may sound utilitarian but it need not be. There are still many design questions to consider.