i suppose this really comes down to a matter of opinion. attached is a photo of a slab of claro walnut that i'll be using as a coffee table top. i tested 3 finishes on the bottom of the slab - from left to right is minwax poly, BLO, and watco danish oil. the main concern is how dark the wood looks when oiled; will it lighten as it dries? i was a bit surprised how dark (black!) the darker brown grain came out. the poly left it much lighter in appearance. artisans and architects i've spoken to strongly advise against the poly, for reasons of being true or more natural etc. i've heard pros and cons for both. someone said magazines/books might become colored by an oil surface before it dries (which can take a long time). it seems there might be some kind of amberish/yellowish color to the watco "natural" danish oil. is this true? is there an oil that has NO coloring to it to maintain more of the natural wood color without darkening it?
i'm not so concerned with water marks on the oil, i don't have kids and will be good about wiping up any spills promptly. so...i'm leaning toward the oil. just wanted some advice at the 11th hour. !!!
thanks!