Just so you know: I have an Aluminum 12-inch Powerbook, and it is NOT scratch-resistant. Someone who sits next t me in class has one as well, and it pains me a little to see how uglified mine is compared to hers. Granted, I don't use a laptop-specific case or any protective coverings. (I want it to show how rugged it is - scars give us character.) So with some care you'll probably be fine. Just don't expect miracles.
Not everyone wants a headless i/eMac because they want to pay less. Some just want a headless machine that costs less than $2,000, and are unwilling to delve into the (warranty-less) pre-owned market. What if I want a cheap but modern machine to use as some kind of home server, or I value big screens but not powerful processors? eMacs are very big and very heavy. They are not easy to stuff under a desk or TV. I say, why not introduce a headless eMac for the SAME price as the current eMac. I think it would still increase sales, and the margins would be even higher. Design it to be fairly upgradeable, like the new iMac, and that's added value that in customers' minds would make up for the lost monitor.
Apple's a creative company - why aren't they thinking creatively at the low end?
iPod mini Hater No More
Why You Won't Be Seeing a "Headless" Mac