Looks like you paid thousands.  LOVE this desk.  Big, heavy, sturdy!   You can feel the grain and see the texture.   The plates are not metal  but they sure look metal.  The site said the base is black, but some pictures looked grey.  Its both, depending on the light.  Easy to assemble. Pieces  were perect fit.  Gorgeous desk if you like rustic.  Could not be happier. AAA+ (bought the chair on Wayfair too)