Clock is definitely distressed looking.  Looks like they painted it, then sanded the surface to remove the paint on the high side.  More than "distressed" the clock face looks like it needs to be wiped clean.  Not sure if it's supposed to look like the paint is pealing or is just supposed to look like it got splattered with something.  As far as functionality and use, it works for our need and is keeping time.  It takes a single AA battery which is easily accessible to put in and/or change when needed.