That's what the original microwave UI was like:

http://www.radar58.com/radarange/fullsize/2Panel.jpg

Mine is like that too, and it works really well and simple to use compared to the alternative of a dozen not-very-tactile buttons. It's based on a mechanical timer, so no buggy firmware either.

Have one like that. Only problem is that it predates the rotary plate, so i have to do half and half times to make sure they heat somewhat evenly. Great for a quick bag of popcorn though.

That's the standard interface for microwaves for me.

Lucky you. My samsung oven has something like 20 buttons with cryptic icons. Feels like an old VHS remote control.

My standard interface is a finicky touchpad. Has been for ~30 years & half a dozen microwaves.

This is one that I've bought this year: http://www.elektrogeraete-co.de/bilder/produkte/gross/434738...

Not a crappy brand, a mid-range product I think. Costs around 180 EUR here.

That's gorgeous. It would be laughed off the market here in the US. Where can I buy one?

It's this one: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Gorenje-MO-4250-CLI/dp/B00FMYZME8

I have trouble finding US shops that have it, maybe it's Europe-only brand, but hope you have better luck!

Really? Every single microwave I saw in the UK is like this one:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Russell-Hobbs-Microwave-Litre-White/...

One knob for time, the other for power. Done.

I've not seen one like that in the US since the 80s. They all look like this:

http://tinyurl.com/uwaveimg