Yeah, the 105 freehub option seems a lot more economical, and versatile. And fits just as nicely as the 126mm vintage hubs in a steel frame like this.
I don't know anything about lacing patterns - I'll look into it, and definitely ask about alternative lacing when I go in to chat about getting these wheels built. And chasing Wolbers (these held real well on my old Norco - and a great look, it's true - which is why I like them) is probably not worth the trouble either...so I'll check out the Velocity offset and other such modern offerings, too.