You are so right, Tweaks.
Russ,
Yes, the oil will definitely need maintaining, but rubbing on a couple of coats periodically is worth the "look" that I like in exterior wood projects. I just couldn't get myself to put on a thick poly or a marine spar varnish as it would just ruin that color and natural look. Not only that, but maintaining a heavy clear coat like that is actually more work for exterior wood items as it literally needs to be stripped and refinished every 2 or 3 years anyway. Imagine how messed up this little sign would be after a few of those chores, lol! No thanks, I'll stick to rubbing it down with the oil once (or twice if need be) a year.
Oh, and no, the wrought iron is not mine, but I have thought about fooling with that "art". Maybe some day.....
Thanks again!
Dave