I have been waiting to buy top end knives for years now. Finally Amazon had such a great price that I took the plunge! These are a great set. Elegant in both looks and utility. I justify the price with the comfort that these are a lifetime purchase. with proper care I may well have these knives 20-40 years! My Grandmother had hers at least that long and I look forward to that kind of a relationship with my Wustof's.