I have a Rowenta that does have the shut off but it does not bother me. It re-heats quickly enough. I also have a EuroSteam iron that I purchased at a quilt show ages ago. Does not have any auto shut off; has s/s soleplate; produces buckets of steam. Does require distilled water but so does my Rowenta so no problem for me.
I know plenty of folks have had issues with Rowentas. I've said this many times but will repeat myself. I think it is critically important to use the type water specified in the owners manual for any iron. Rowenta makes irons that require distilled water as well as those that require tap water. Use the water recommended by the manufacturer of that model and I'm convinced you will not have problems. That, at least, has been my experience. The only reason any of my Rowentas have quit is due to repeated droppage/falls.