the plastic piece to connect the telescoping rod section to the next section was broken, meaning the rod won't sit perfectly straight and the gap is visible.  I really like the look, although now that I buy a 1" rod 144" long, I realize that 1.5" is likely better aesthetically and for sturdiness - although that's my own fault.  Hopefully my rating will go up once I hang the curtains and see the final product.