As for the cracking, mine are doing fine, I had a few sets of eyes on them the last time I had them off. I assume this is an isolated issue. SSR is/was/may again be quite famous for its wheels. I have never done more than aggressive street driving - no track or strip (yet).
As stated in my profile, they are the satin finish. A little darker on the spokes. I like the look on a light colored car and they're a little less common.