I just bought one of the new Model 19's (4.2" barrell). I haven't had a chance to shoot it, but I can't find anything wrong with the feel, fit, finish, etc. on this gun.
I did glance at a 3" Model 19 at the same time. I wasn't planning to get it, so it was just a quick look before handing it back, but the finish seemed "wrong" to me. It was a sort of matte black that didn't catch my eye, but for all I know, they're supposed to be like that. It's not that it was a "bad" finish, just different than the 4.2" one I bought.
(I checked and apparently the 3" PC version, does have a different finish.)