I was a little reticent to purchase the hardcover, but I couldn't be happier. I love the red gilding instead of the common gold. Also the block print pictures are beautiful. They appeal to me much more that color icons. The whole book has a classic appearance.
Also, there is some wonderful introductory material in this book that helps newbies orient themselves to its use. I have both a Jordanville and a Newrome prayer book. They are both beautiful and I don't disparage either of them. Nevertheless, I find myself reaching for this St. Tikhon's almost exclusively. I love it.