I purchased this 3 years ago and it was by far the most expensive toaster I had ever bought.  Didn't mind because I liked the look and it matched all my other kitchen aid counter appliances.   As it is only used by two people once maybe twice a week it was surprising to me that it stopped toasted both sides of the bread so quickly.  Of the 8 coiled sides only 4 or 3 heat up now.  Time to replace