I think you are making an excellent choice for a all round dressy shoe CMcG.

I would go for a copy of the Loake or Church's toe cap shoe which have the bare minimum of additional stitching. I also dislike the pointed or chisel toe look and I think the more rounded toe is the way to go. As for the full leather sole and heal, if it is an all round shoe, which you suggest it is, I would go for the rubber heel plate.

Good luck with the process and look forward to seeing the results