It’s the same with built-in obsolescent in stoves, dishwashers and refrigerators. If our appliances are only going to last 8 years - design them for family size and use. No reason to go with ‘one size fits all’ if a stove only last 8 years.
The antique stove in the pictures (with a few safety modifications) would be perfect for a senior. Air fryer to the left - warming box, small over and a few burners.
Or as you point out - they could give us quality that last a lifetime. My Dad had a central AC unit that lasted almost 40 years. I’m lucky if mine last 12 years. I mentioned that to an AC repairman and he said, ‘yeah, but those systems didn’t have all the bells and whistles...’ Fine. Offer both. Let the customer decide. I would happily do without all the ‘bells and whistles’... for a unit that would last 40 years - not 12...
When we sold my mom’s house, after she passed, her Kelvinator was still running like a charm; I think it was 60 y/o; and ran flawlessly 24/7. Also a 50-60 y/o GE chest freezer in the basement. Another dinosaur that refused to die. :)
They surely don’t make ‘em like they used to.