I think what we are noticing is truly to two different approaches to tool design and esthetics: with Hazet there is a "minimalism" that seems to pervade the German approach to making things! This can be seen in the bodies and interiors of the German cars (vw, bmw, mercedes etc.) they are well designed "understated" and not overly flashy. German Knives are also another example; many are similar to designs they are made, in some cases, over 100 years; it may be a "it ain't broke don't fix it" sensibility but also a sense of old world craftsmanship; a willingness to keep making these designs based on "tradition"; a respect of those designs. This respect is not generally honored in America where "new" is always seen as "better" and most of our ancestors left the "old world" for the "new world" and went on to create their own new life. A independent spirit, new ideas, pulling yourself up by your own boot straps, throwing off the old traditions has always been a part of the core characteristics of the American culture. Snap-on on the other hand would represent the incredible wealth, abundance, and resources we have enjoyed since WW II. The "chrominess" in my opinion, is tapping into the 50's (a time of incredible prosperity) cars that had those huge chrome bumpers (think cadillac); a willingness, desire to "show off"; "look at me" that is part of the American culture and projects a quality and beauty that is uniquely "American". The justification of the high cost of Snap-On tools may also factor into the fit, finish and beautiful "gleam" when you open a drawer full of Snap-On tools. Thats not to say it is all "show and no go" but functional things look beautiful when they are shiny!
German "Kultur" has a "thriftiness/frugality" to it that may explain some of the design esthetics of the Hazet wrenches; their is a sense that the wrenches don't "need" all the chrome; it works (functional) and they look fine the way they have been traditionally made; again don't mess with tradition! The "satin" finish to most of their products may keep costs down (german frugality) and also taps into the "understated" sense of design/ethetics the Germans are so famous for (or "infamous" depending on how you look at it; personal perspective).
Ok, I'll stop philosophizing but this is what I see: clear contrasts between the two cultures of the USA and Germany. This culture affects how the products are designed, made and how they end up coming out of of Hazet and Snap-On.
