I wasnt sure how I felt about the look of this block set. the metak top made it seem so industrial, but when i realized the benefit of having the self sharpening,  the appearance faded away. I love knowing that every time I go to cut, slice, chop, pare my knife is as ready as I am. I wish there was a way to make the slot for scissors a scissors sharpener but that's a tall order Im sure! the selection of knives in this set are just perfect for my needs and the quality is fantastic!