A saddle is the most difficult componet to buy and probably the most important. I am some what of a weight weenie but not when it comes to saddles. Buy what works for you. I had a Selle Anatomica which looks like a Brooks B17. I have also had a Brooks Swift. What I have now is by far the best for me. I have an SMP and have no interest in replacing it. However, everyone is different. If you think a B17 will work for you, get one and don't be concerned with how it looks.