I could be pursuaded to have an NTSC snes on my shelf if it looked like this badboy! Very nice clean design, and love it in black.
If only cart slots could be front mounted so that multiple systems could be stacked, like high end stereo equipment. This would require considerable modification,or a larger case and some sort of pass through/extender for the cart slot, and push prices and installation difficulty up though. It would enable lots of different systems to be in the same shape/style, all stacked tidily, with just their relevant logo on the front. That would look amazing.
I would LOVE to do a front load unit, but like you said, it would take more work, a lot more.
They way I'm looking at this project right now, I'm thinking start with something simple and foolproof like this, then, if I have some success I'll possibly offer some special edition units that are more custom for the really die-hard folks.
Maybe even something as complex as the SNES-Station in very small quantities. I know how gamers love their special/limited editions

One other thing I've been thinking about is packaging. I know that, as an old schooler myself, there's something EXTREMELY exciting about unboxing a new system. With that in mind, would you guys be interested in a full retail package for these units, not just bubble wrap in a brown box? I will undoubtedly create at least one prototype package for myself, and I'll get quotes for that sort of thing if you guys feel like it's a worthwhile idea.
shut up and take my money!
looks awesome! i really like the design good work wiggy.

For the black I would recommend a black replacement shell for the controller.