If you apply the second subdivision, and only at the edges (having middle-straight parts of the seats at bigger faces) ... will make the edges of the seats look ncer, yet not overwhelm the model whyte polys.
As for the dials ... for some components on my models cabin, i added (in some hidden space) some sandom bigger face to its mesh, so it wont be hidden. Just a square, or 6-8 edged circles, well whytein the frame outside any visible place. Then its not a problem anymore.