I agree with the others. I just started the Wildwood Designs Worthington Wall Clock and am using solid walnut & am using maple for the 1/8' pieces. The backer board is the same as the front = walnut. If I'm going to spend that much time on a project, I want it to look the best because I need all the help that wood can give me. For the extra cost, it'll be well worth it.
Mike