Restoration table

Hi There!

I'm looking to purchase this restoration hardware table - it'll be my first dining table purchase. I know from reading other posts that buying from RH isn't the best but I don't know much about furniture, only that I like this look and the price allows me to easily buy a bunch of chairs for it. Plus, it's the perfect size 60-78", extended, for the room. I'm considering getting the darker brown color.

Does the construction look okay?
Is this thing gonna last me at least 10 years until I can afford to upgrade to something handcrafted and unique?
Should I use a varnish paste on this (I read your post about DRY-DRY-DRY to someone else and would follow that technique)
Would there be any difference besides color in getting the natural color v the brown?

Do you know of anything similar out there that would be made better within the same price range - $1,000-$1500

Thank you!!

http://www.restorationhardware.com/c...ryId=cat500016

Can't tell on construction - photos have to be either from the bottom or the table flipped over to see how its made.

RH should last. While not the highest quality, its not junk like Pottery Barn sells.

Color: Whichever you like.

Good luck.

Thank you Duane!