Paul, too true re quality manufacture. I got my Weller (exactly like Marv's) in 1965 when I started my DIY electrical learning. I got a Lafayette Radio Electronics 'kit" shortwave receiver (4 or 5 tubes..), used the Weller and a pencil iron and Voila! We lived on top of a hill in the neighbourhood and dad helped me run 120 and 60 ft copper wire at 90 angle. I got international stations all over the world. Even sent a request QSL to Radio Havana Cuba.....and promplty got their newsprint propaganda paper (Granma) monthly, for YEARS! This was about the time SSB came about, so back to Lafyette for a VFO, and I could listen in. I never got my licence, sadly. But the Weller was still going strong in 87 when I emigrated to AUS...Cheers
Jim in Sunny South Coast NSW Australia