A good quality loose ball bb is a thing of beauty... most of my bikes run them and adjustments are a rare thing. Precision machining and close tolerances don't come cheaply.

They will also outlast many cartridge bottom brackets (with regular service) and can use oil and lubricant which is something I do with my winter bikes.

My commuter and mountain bike have cartridge bottom brackets... they see a lot of really crappy conditions and a better quality cartridge will last for many many thousands of km.

They aren't quite as smooth though.