Mr. Pritchard; I have several Chris Reeve knives, of the usual alloy blades, and several with the Devin Thomas 'Raindrop' pattern welded steel blade.
This is not true or 'wootz' Damascus, in which the layers run the length of the blade, but is formed from a number of twisted steel rods which have been welded together, and then the blade is cut from this assembly, crossways, revealing the cross section of the rods. It is truly beautiful. Drop dead beautiful.
How well does it stand up? Check on the 'other forum,' KFC, and look up the subject on the CR forum. They addressed this issue not too long ago. You trade some strength for the beauty. Keep your Tuf-Cloth handy, and always coat the blade after use. CR can refurbish the blade, but it is not as simple or as inexpensive to do as it is with a standard alloy blade.
Hope this helps. Walt