I like well designed things that serve a function. I like things that look good. You can have both in an aesthetically pleasing package and it's beautiful when done right. It just depends on how you choose to incorporate the two and balance them.
I made this cryptex. Was it a test of my abilities as an engineer and machinist? Absolutely! Was it a test of my ability to design an aesthetically pleasing product within the bounds of material selection and ability? You bet it was! It isn't perfect, but I learned a great deal from making it. If I make others they will be designed better and look nicer. Engineers that design ugly products won't be selling very many of them.