The Ariete Vintage 156 Toaster is the perfect example of how mid-range appliances can rival luxury models without losing their soul. Designed in Italy, it captures that nostalgic 1960s charm — soft edges, brushed metal detailing, and pastel hues — while quietly delivering reliable, modern performance. It sits neatly between the affordable warmth of Swan and the premium craftsmanship of Smeg, making it one of the most balanced retro toasters on the market today.
Design and Build Quality
The first thing that strikes you about the Ariete 156 is its understated beauty. It doesn’t shout for attention — it draws you in. The rounded form, vintage logo badge, and polished metal trim create a distinctly European aesthetic that feels timeless rather than themed. Ariete has mastered the art of subtle nostalgia; the toaster looks vintage but not theatrical.
Available in classic pastel colors such as cream, green, and blue, it’s designed to complement a range of kitchen styles, from rustic farmhouse to modern minimalist. The body feels robust, with a solid metal casing that gives it noticeable weight and stability. While not as heavy as a Dualit, it avoids the lightweight plastic feel found in many competitors.
Every component feels thoughtfully executed — from the smooth lever action to the well-calibrated browning dial. Even the chrome knobs have a tactile click that reinforces Ariete’s attention to craftsmanship. It’s a rare case where the mid-range price doesn’t mean mid-range build.
Performance and Toasting Quality
Performance is where the Ariete 156 proves its worth. With 810 watts of power, it heats quickly and toasts evenly across both slots. The heat distribution is impressively uniform, producing consistent results from one cycle to the next. Toast emerges crisp and evenly browned, without the pale centers or burnt edges common in cheaper models.
The browning control is responsive and precise, offering real variation between light and dark settings. It’s clear Ariete has fine-tuned the internal thermostat to balance speed with consistency. The wide slots accommodate a variety of bread types, from thick sourdough slices to bagels and brioche, without jamming or uneven toasting.
In side-by-side comparisons, the Ariete performs remarkably close to the Smeg 2-Slice, albeit at nearly half the price. While the exterior can warm slightly after extended use, it never becomes dangerously hot — a testament to its well-insulated design.
Features and Ease of Use
Ariete’s Vintage 156 Toaster blends modern convenience with classic styling. It includes all the essential functions — defrost, reheat, and cancel — neatly integrated into the front panel with subtle indicator lights that don’t detract from its retro charm.
The defrost setting handles frozen slices evenly without drying them out, while the reheat mode is gentle enough to revive toast without scorching. The cancel button, placed conveniently above the lever, responds instantly, allowing users to stop the cycle mid-way if needed.
The removable crumb tray is well-fitted and slides out smoothly, making cleaning effortless. There’s also a practical cord wrap system underneath, keeping the counter tidy — a small detail that enhances usability.
What makes the Ariete enjoyable to use is its balance of simplicity and control. There are no unnecessary features, no digital distractions — just a well-designed toaster that performs reliably every morning.
Durability and Maintenance
The Ariete Vintage line has earned a reputation for dependable build quality, and the 156 model continues that tradition. The metal housing feels durable, and the internal heating elements maintain consistent performance even after prolonged use. The lever mechanism is firm but smooth, showing no signs of looseness or wear after repeated cycles.
Maintenance is minimal. Regularly emptying the crumb tray and wiping the enamel exterior with a damp cloth keeps it looking pristine. The enamel finish holds up well against fading and heat discoloration. With normal domestic use, this toaster should easily last for several years without noticeable decline in performance.
Ariete offers a two-year manufacturer’s warranty, reinforcing confidence in its durability and customer support. It’s a small but reassuring sign that this is more than just a design piece — it’s a well-engineered appliance.
Value and Pricing
Typically retailing between £70 and £90, the Ariete 156 sits comfortably in the mid-range segment. It’s a genuine sweet spot for those who want more refinement than the budget brands can offer, but aren’t ready to spend Smeg-level money.
The design feels premium, the performance reliable, and the finish exquisite. It’s not just paying for appearance; you’re paying for thoughtful engineering. When compared directly to similarly priced models, the Ariete often outperforms them in both aesthetic and consistency. It’s the kind of product that feels underpriced for the quality it delivers — which is rare in the small-appliance world.
For households that appreciate design and durability but still want practicality, the Ariete 156 represents outstanding value.
Verdict
The Ariete Vintage 156 Toaster is a triumph of balance — refined yet approachable, nostalgic yet functional. It manages to bridge the gap between the luxurious indulgence of Smeg and the everyday familiarity of Swan, offering an experience that feels quietly sophisticated.
It doesn’t need to be flashy or loud; its charm lies in its restraint. Everything about it — the smooth controls, consistent toasting, elegant form — reflects Ariete’s Italian design sensibility and commitment to quality.
For buyers seeking a retro toaster that offers genuine craftsmanship without the designer price tag, the Ariete 156 is the standout choice. It’s not just a toaster that looks good — it’s one that performs with grace, day after day, while bringing a little piece of vintage Italy into your kitchen.