The idea i'm leaning towards is running the PFO fixture with 250 watt SE bulbs and the 250 watt Hamilton HQI ballasts.

From what I have read PFO reflectors are decent. and the Hamilton ballasts seem to be decent.

What brand of bulbs would you suggest for output and longevity? I guess the normal rules don't apply as these bulbs are running out of there intended parameters.

I'm not really interested in replicating a natural reef. My main objective is Aesthetics , but still have the corals happy. High flow will be consistent throughout the tank, so that will not be a concern.

you could check out Progressive growth in colwood (in the strip mall across from Timmie's and Wendy's behind speedy auto glass), they are caring coral view bulbs which have been getting good reviews in the US, and they are cheaper than any other bulb you will find in Victoria, and about the same as what Vancouver stores sell bulbs for but no shipping, as they are keeping a lower markup.

Steve