I have been asked, on many an occasion, to recommend a toaster. In my opinion, there is only one toaster that one should consider purchasing, and that is a Dualit. These are the Rolls-Royce of toasters (of course, the fact that they're handmade in England contributes to that reference!). In actual fact, I think Rolls-Royce might be a slightly unfair comparison: while the initial purchase price of each is certainly in the top tier of the type, you would never open the bonnet of your Rolls and change the radiator yourself. But that's just what you can do with a Dualit.The model we stock is called the Vario. As you can see from our page, we have this toaster in two- or four-slice options. The beauty of the Dualit is its simplicity. The toasting function is controlled by a mechanical timer: turn the knob to select your toasting duration. The toast is manually deposited and ejected from the toasting slots; this means you can leave your slices in the toaster to keep warm. The lever also has a high lift, meaning you'll never lose your little baguette slices down the hole again (or have to stick a knife in to drag them out, praying you don't get electrocuted: very undignified to be zapped trying to make toast). The elements feature a patented Dualit technology called ProHeat, which increases the efficiency of the element, as well as its durability. If your element does go bung, it is replaceable...by you! No expensive mechanics, and no "doing without" while your toaster takes an extended vacation in Repairland (from which, as we all know, return is always mysteriously delayed).
And here's one more thing about the DIY replaceable parts: it's environmentally friendly. Dualits are designed to be kept forever, and consequently all parts are designed to be repaired or replaced. One less toaster on the landfill pile at the Resource Recovery Centre (yes, our Highlands' tip has a suitably genteel name). Furthermore, you can accessorise your Vario with a sandwich rack (with inbuilt drip tray) for toasties-with-the-mosties, or a warming rack (which will accomodate all sorts of doughsome delights). Who needs piped Connolly hide?!
The Dualit comes in a marvellous range of colours, with that retro, utilitarian look which complements any kitchen. However, I am a bit taken with the special edition Marmite one (as yet unavailable in Australia). The colours are quite reminiscent of something quintessentially Australian. I wonder if the "Mar" could be replaced with a "Vege"....?
