I did have problems with my Rowenta, the first time while it was still under warranty (absolutely terrible customer service getting it replaced) and the last time - well I just threw it out. I bought a Reliable V100 Digital Velocity iron. You can put it out of auto shut-off mode, or you can leave it in that mode - the choice is yours. The steam is great with this iron and the design is supposed to be such that it will never leak. I prefer a heavier iron, and this one is. There are some things I don't care for about it, such as the controls being located right where my hand goes. I'm mentioning it only because it does seem to meet your requirements, of a hot iron without auto shut-off.