I don't think irons last as long as the ones made prior to the 70's :roll:
Also, I don't think they are made to be used the way we quilters use them. Mine can be on for the whole day, day after day. I think we literally tend to "burn them out" quickly.
I still stick to the cheaper models, replace them every few years and I am way ahead of the game. I would not be happy to have one that spendy that did not last atleast 10 years :D:D:D