After yearning for one of these for the past 2 years, my husband suprised me with this one yesterday! He even knew I wanted the one with the glass bowl. I have been reading reviews, and specs and everything related to this mixer, but could never justify spending so much...but recently I have taken on baking and I was getting frustrated with my hand mixer and the long periods of time I was taking to get everything mixed and ready to go. I think my husband picked up on the frustration and finally caved in. I carefully read all the manuals before I used this and used the dime trick: (details for this can be found at the following user review) [...]. I wanted to make sure the mixer head was aligned and that the attachments weren't striking the bowl before engaging in any baking activity. Everything was good to go, so I started with a batch of peanut butter cookies. It was effortless creaming the shortening, sugar and peanut butter. When the flour went in there was no bogging or slowing this beast down...it was awesome! This mixer is hands down the gold standard of baking. When it comes to looks this thing is a beauty! So shiny and blue and retro. If you have been waiting to get one of these like I was don't hesitate...for all the money you spend its value will be in the ease of baking and time that you save in the kitchen. Highly recommend!!!