I am in total agreement with your two cons.
The strap bis THE weak point at JLC. A great classic, which is sad, as a watch doesn't end at the case, but to the buckle, without forgetting the strap.
Here, the pin buckle is nice, but the croc strap should improve in quality. Something to think about.
As for the silver ring, at the outside part of the dial, I totally see what you mean, and it is the same thing on the Duo à Chrono in its WG version.
BUT you will quickly get used to it, and what you feel as a con will turn into a pro, as it is part of the " old charm " of this watch.
Now, the Duo is the Duo, the best offer in the current JLC range, a stunning, outstanding watch.
Something I will have to get one day.
Best,
Niciolas