Yes, the GSD3's are $279 a piece but, if you were to consider the fact that you only have to change out the front tires every 4-6 years (maybe more) its about the same cost as replacing all 4 ever cycle.
I was going through a set of tires every 2 years @ 600 + tax&install. Now I spend about the same amount, (except I had the cost of the wheels) and have a much better looking (and performing) setup. That was my theory behind it, at least.
I think these wheels are the right amount of "flashy" for me. Im not a big fan of flashy wheels, that why I wanted these. They match the car very well- the pictures dont really do them justice.