I would cry if I ever get a wife and she is cutting the lawn.
Since we are vouching for much more expensive mowers than the OP was considering - I vouch for the HRX!
Honda HRX217HZA Mower | 21" Walk Behind Mower | Honda Lawn Mowers
The Honda HRX217HZA lawn mower offers the ultimate mowing experience. Featuring electric start, Cruise Control, Roto-Stop® blade stop system, and a 5 year warranty.powerequipment.honda.com