The product itself is awesome. I disagree with other reviews; it is not just for looks. It arrived unmarred, well insulated in the boxes (expertly padded) and we now use it as a fully functional (entirely weight bearing), expandable table, and it is rock solid, beautiful and looks very high-end... the only cheap part (which I have no issue with really, since they're merely for aesthetics) are the turnbuckles. That being said, if you accept a table at this price, understand you will not be receiving patination, or true iron cross members, which again is fine with me.
I haven't had it long enough to scratch or age yet, so I can't fully comment on how it will take bumps and bruises, or if the seats will bow, but upon assembly, all joinery seemed solid and of quality. If worried, you could always make it more permanent with a dab of Gorilla Glue here and there. The leaves are heavy and solid and fit nicely into the adjoining spaces to create a well-finished piece... not rickety or loose once latched. All-in-all the product is fantastic. Use coasters, place-mats, drapery, etc. if worried about effects of condensation. So far, I've used it for dining and as a workbench for house projects; (knock on wood) not one scratch from metal, ceramic, glass, etc. It's a great piece, at a great price for what you get.
The only (and almost deal-breaking) aspect of this process that should be regarded prior to purchase is the deplorable shipping and distribution arms with whom Ostock has decided to transfer this product from them to the customer. I was "guaranteed" faulty and unreasonable lead times upfront, vacant delivery expectations and entirely absent call centers, as I was continually (and frustratingly) re-routed to full voicemail boxes as I tried time and again to locate, track down and understand delivery period for the product. THE ONLY saving grace during my hellish experience was Ostock's own customer care support team. One rep in particular was outstanding and was single-handedly able to counteract all of the BS associated with the process, re-instill confidence (I was literally at the point of shopping around and fully contemplating cancellation through Ostock), and further, provide a concrete date for arrival. Ostock was awesome; their chosen shipping relationships I'm not impressed with in the least. The shipping time is unacceptable, as Competitor "A" is able to deliver the exact same product, in 2-5 days time currently.
If you can withstand the agony of waiting an unpredictable amount of time for the piece, you'll love it (or you should). Truncate your shipping, Ostock, so we can enjoy items like this in a more timely and reasonable manner!