As found in some durability tests, the black iPhone 5’s back tends to scratch much easier than its glass-backed iPhone 4/4S predecessors. However, the aluminum back obviously stands up to drops much better than glass. When given the option, I would probably take the scratches.
Any aluminum product may scratch or chip with use, exposing its natural silver color. That is normal.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=OSFKVq36Hgc]
We can also confirm Schiller is up and answering customer emails at 6:13 a.m. PST.
iPhone 5 case makers rejoice! (Thanks, Alex!)
Update: We’ve posted an extremely informative video on Apple’s anodizing process below: