NURBS you build out of points lines and curves - has the best - ie - curved surface capabilities of any of the current modelers. Not so much math based as it may sound - at least on the users side. Some people take to it easily, others prefer poly based modeling.
Stop by the rhino forum and look through some threads - and go to the hall of fame to see what both newer users and advanced have done in the biweekly challenges.
I had tried Ray Dream 3 and disliked it - i like Rhino - some have came on the forum and just could not get their heads around this type of modeling - but found Max and polys more suited for them - the rhino demo and the folks at the forum will help you decide if this is your style - just don't expect to do final fantasy after a week no matter what modeling program you decide.
By the way the challenge going on now is chess sets and their are some really nice works underway...
best. hewsan