I'd go with #2 for ease of use - the controller handle being so close to the spout (and I am sure there are other ways to describe this!) would drive me nuts because I'd be goobering up the entire faucet all the time with my messy hands and it would be a PITA to wipe off. :-)

And hey - it's less expensive!

I like number 2

We bought the Kalia (Diver) for our recent remodel, so have only been using it for a few months. I can't speak to its longevity but it looks and feels substantial, and the pullout is very smooth and quiet. I live in Canada and the local plumbing store that I've been dealing with for years has the Kalia models on display and recommended the product (Kalia) as one that they sell with no issues. My neighbour also has a Kalia that she's been using since Feb and loves it. Hope this helps.

When something looks that close in style, I go for price considering the quality is similar. There's no way I'd pay double for a faucet.

You do realize that these are modern fixtures, not mcm, right? They look pretty similar but I'd go for #2, unless you actually want an mcm faucet.

They both look very contemporary, not MCM.

They're not MCM, they're contemporary but if you like them, then that's okay - you're not doing a museum. But do be careful buying a brand where the parts are not stocked locally. When ones faucet breaks, one wants it fixed QUICKLY, not in a couple of weeks if and when the parts arrive.

I agree - do mount the control on the front. I did not know this was an option 13 years ago when I got my faucet and I never could put it on full "cold" as it hit the sill behind it. While at my KD store, I admired one with a front faucet and said I'd buy it if I needed a new one but had paid over $600 for the one I have 13 years ago and it works fine. KD told me that when they took it out for the new cabinets, have them reinstall it mounted in the front. Genius! I had no idea this was possible. Yes, it does mean that nasty stuff on hands goes into the sink rather than behind the faucet and it is SO much easier to use!

Thanks for the input! We're checking our #2 in person this week. Good points about the functionality of #1. The house will be a mix of throwback and modern. Other than vintage-y looking faucets that lack a pull down sprayer or a hand spray (a necessity for us), we haven't been able to find a good looking true MCM faucet that is low profile.