I have had a couple Colts that I would definitely put up to par with my Kimbers, but there again I think Colts are overpriced as well. Nothing wrong with being a fan boy. Best 1911 I own is a Wilson and I definitely over payed for that lol. To each their own.
I wouldn't consider a wilson overpriced either, for the amount of gun you're getting... If anything they're the best bang for the buck in top end 1911s.
Shiney. I kind of like it. If it has a slicked up 8-10 lb DAO trigger then they have a sellable product. Otherwise no reason not to buy a Smith.
The internal lock is plenty of reason not to buy a Smith. At least, not a new one.
A six-shot 642 wannabe in 357? I could see it selling well. I'm not sold on 357 out of a snubby, but I'd still be interested in it.