I rarely write reviews but this product irked me so much I had to write. I bought it for 60.00 on the gold box deal and it arrived yesterday. Either it was used (alot!) or a messed up set that left the factory. Every blade had serious pattern and surface defects. It looked like it was covered in vaseline and left to acquire dust and dirt--but it turned out that it apparently was supposed to look that way. The smudges couldn't be washed off. I returned the product. Maybe I just got a defective set, but Bodum shouldn't put his name on this poor quality. I can't imagine someone paying full retail. Bodum should stick to coffee presses and the like, which I love. Also, this set was made in China. Not pleased.