very cool looking stools, I get a lot of compliments on them. Great for regular counter top height (and higher since they go up). the wooden seat is very smooth and nice. the brass finish is pretty even. I do wish that the visible screw (you can also see it in the picture) was gold instead of black/unfinished metal but that is fairly minor. Overall it is a pretty nice stool and the adjustable height makes it very versatile.