I know most of the road race guys go with white as it shows cracks better. I've read some sanctions wont allow the hammer finish because of the tech inspections of the welds. That may be way beyond what you need to worry about though.
I too like the hammer finish (if you primer it first )
Heres that CC link to the appliance paint we were talking about:
http://corner-carvers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=37313