Friday, June 6, 2008

Monitor Top

Our Monitor Top fridge was delivered today and I must say...it looks FABULOUS in my kitchen. Wouldn't you agree?



It was quite heavy so it took a lot of work to get it in but completely worth it (I guess I just stood by and watched, so definitely worth it for me!) It is in such great condition. We are so excited. It will take some getting used to but in the end I think that Zach and I will be very happy with our decision. 

It is amazing to me how something so old (1934)--an appliance no less--can be in such incredible working condition. Zach and I were talking about this the other night and he was telling me that the reason why we expect so little from products is a direct consequence of "Planned Obsolescence." 

Basically, once upon a time in history, it would never have occurred to a company to build a product that couldn't last. In fact, the quality of a product was based upon exactly that--it's ability to LAST. Unfortunately, somewhere along the line, profiteers decided that they would be better off making products that didn't last, became obsolete, because there is more profit potential involved when someone needs to replace something...and...TA-DA...we became a throw-away society. Why buy something that will last when you can buy something that can be replaced in one to two years. From a consumer standpoint, it's crazy isn't it?

Perhaps someday we will make it back to the values of old. Until then, you are welcome to come over to my house and help yourself to a soda out of my 1934 refrigerator. 

In the words of someone who said it better than me...

"For many, owning an old appliance is a bit of a rebellion, a rejection of the lesser quality of newer appliances and of the marketing forces that create a constant craving for something new. It's their way of saying the world it moving too fast, and we need to slow down."

Damn straight! 

If you want to know more about planned obsolescence check out this article or click here

2 comments:

  1. Cool fridge!! I think its really sad how nothing is built to last anymore. I recently watched a pbs special on an American cruise ship, the SS United States (that used to be all the rage when cruises were glamorous, before commercial flights took over) which was abruptly retired and left to rust in a ship yard in Philadelphia. Despite being there neglected for 40 years, it's still in great working condition and they were saying that boats weren't built that way anymore. It was hard to believe... seriously guys? you aren't even going to build a boat to last? what a waste.

    On another note, do you know about Design Sponge? I'm thinking probably do, but if not, check it out! http://www.designspongeonline.com/

    Also, there's this girl that used to work in my store and now she has her own business: Orange Beautiful. Made me think of you. www.orangebeautiful.com

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  2. Hi A. I'm a friend of your cousin Liza's. Your comments on planned obsolescence made me think you might enjoy this: http://storyofstuff.com/

    Beautiful fridge!

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