This is a nice belt. The original $40 was still on the attached MSRP tag, so I feel like I got a real bargain. The leather looks like it will hold up well. We've been having a problem with the backing on belts tearing and splitting. Don't think that will be a problem with this one. As others stated, the buckle has some heft to it. But I don't see that as a negative, it speaks to the quality of the materials used. Hope my hubby will like it when he gets it at Christmas.