I bought this with the intention of using it as a beverage tub/party bucket. What I needed was something attractive, water-tight, and that would fit on my kitchen counter.
My first test of it (full of water in the fridge overnight) went fine.
The appearance is essentially like the product photo, with the exception of the metallic texture.This isn't quite like the old metal tubs, it is "hot-dipped" in some kind of metal, giving it a slightly different texture, rather like an object that has been covered in craft paint. This isn't really a problem however, it still looks nice and has a pleasant rustic look to it.
If indeed it holds up well over time, then I don't feel it was too expensive as some others might. If I saw this in a store I would expect a similar price.