Well, for the same gauge and number of spokes, heads-in radial do get a bit stiffer than cross laces.

And a tiny bit lighter.

And heads-out, with different color spokes/hubs can be look quite nice.

So, if you aren't troubled by flanges breaking or nipples unscrewing, or the old claim or harsher ride, I think there are some decent, if not overwhelming reasons for using radial fronts.