Modifying/repairing some fluorescent fixtures recently decided to use
soldered connections and heat shrink tubing to minimise the bulkiness
of the 'wire nuts' usually used.

Having not too long ago added some 230 volt outlets to the work bench
to accommodate some 230 volt items brought back from the Middle East,
dug out the 65 watt Weller soldering iron acquired back around the mid
1950s (probably in Liverpool?) and since its plug had already been
modified to the appropriate NEMA (North American Electrical
Manufacturers) 230 volt type, plugged it in.

It worked beautifully. Not only that but its 'rubber' wire/cord is
still fully flexible and pliable without nicks or cracks. Unlike much
more recent plastic wired devices (and extension cords) which have
insulation which has dried out, lost its plasticizers and cracked.
Also have a 25 watt soldering iron although had to replace the more
plasticky wire on that some time ago. At 230 volts 25 watts is only
about one tenth of an amp anyway!

In the intervening years have occasionally used these irons from a 115
to 230 volt step up transformer. Which also occasionally powered a
Wolf electric drill bought on Paradise Street, Liverpool, in 1953 and
has helped in the construction and wiring of two homes.

A testament to when quality meant something?