I have the silver coloured one, without the B [for black] in the model name, and its otherwise exactly the same. I actually prefer the silver since its different to black, which is so common [desirable] these days .
I fitted a Manfrotto 234RC ball head that allows me to shoot vertically, and has a must-have quick-release plate. Its mainly metal, and seems durable.
The monopod is super, easy to set up, and very sturdy; such that I feel confident putting my SLR and flash which together weigh 2 kgs on it. The load limit for the ballhead is stated as 2.5kg. For info, the load limit for just the monopod is 10 kg, which I havent tried. I would frankly be careful putting so much weight on it, as the screw on the *monopod* is tiny, and seems as solid as the screw on the ball head.
I compared this monopod [the 679] to its slightly heavier and costlier "brothers". Weight is important to me, as I carry it in my backpack whilst on hols. Since I dont intend to use heavier equipment, I feel the combination of this monopod and this head is terrific.
Both are highly recommended.