I'm not familiar with all that many chains specifically, but from what I can see the best value is anything from about 1/3 to 1/2 way up in each company's line. Other than the lowest end offerings all have riveted heads and are probably made from the same or very comparable materials. Spending more might get you better cosmetics or lower weight, but not more strength or wear resistance.

I personally don't ever go 1st class on consumable components. I look for the best function for the buck, and if I ever made a chain you'd have a choice of black or dark black finish since that's what happens anyway.