In antique S&W nickel is more common in most of the models, and blued guns are sought after. Like John Traveler says, you do find some crummy looking nickeled guns, but the most pristine guns you find are usually the nickel finished kind. This after over 100 years of sitting in that sock drawer.

So, if you're looking for a gun to retain it's value after having beat around in your glove or tackle-box for a decade or two, I'd choose nickel. If you're looking for a gun that will live in a gun case and be gingerly handled at the range once and a while, go blue. In resale, finish is king.

Another thing about nickel. If you're using it as a self defense gun, a nickel gun looks one hell of a lot bigger in that dark alley. I'm just sayin....

Buy the toys you like. This ain't no rehersal!