14 Retro Kitchen Appliances from the ’70s That Are Now Rare

In the 1970s, kitchens were filled with colorful, quirky appliances that made cooking both fun and functional. Today, many of these retro gadgets have become rare collectibles, treasured for their unique designs and nostalgic charm. Exploring these forgotten kitchen staples offers a delightful glimpse into a bygone era of home cooking where style met practicality in every meal.

1. Sunbeam Mixmaster Model 12

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This iconic stand mixer was the ultimate kitchen sidekick in the ’70s, known for its powerful motor and rugged metal beaters. Families relied on it to whip up everything from birthday cakes to holiday cookies, making it a staple of home baking. Nowadays, finding one in working condition feels like unearthing a culinary treasure, especially with those signature avocado or harvest gold finishes.

2. General Electric Spacemaker Microwave

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Long before microwaves became kitchen essentials, the GE Spacemaker was the “futuristic” wonder that sat above the stove, saving counter space and time. Its chunky buttons and small window gave it a charming, almost sci-fi vibe. These units were built tough, but today, spotting a functional original is rare — most were replaced or discarded once sleek, modern models took over.

3. Osterizer Blender Model 450

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The Osterizer was the blender that blended everything — smoothies, sauces, even soups — with a no-nonsense metal base and hefty glass jar. It hummed with a distinct sound that was as comforting as the drinks it made. Now, vintage Osterizers are prized by collectors who love the heft and reliability that modern plastic appliances rarely match.

4. Toastmaster Electric Percolator

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Before drip coffee makers ruled the kitchen, the Toastmaster percolator brewed a bold, robust pot of coffee with a gurgling whistle that meant morning was officially here. Its shiny stainless steel body often wore a little patina, adding character with every brew. These percolators are seldom found in use today, but they hold a nostalgic place in the hearts of coffee purists.

5. West Bend Electric Fryer

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Deep frying at home was a weekend ritual, and the West Bend fryer made it easy with its compact design and temperature control. French fries, fried chicken, and donuts came out perfectly crisp every time, filling kitchens with irresistible smells. Today’s sleek air fryers have mostly replaced it, making the original West Bend a rare sight on countertops.

6. Braun Kitchen Robot

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This Swiss-made all-in-one machine was the ultimate ’70s kitchen multitasker — chopping, slicing, shredding, and mixing with precision and style. Its minimalist design was a conversation starter, standing out in a sea of clunky appliances. It’s rare to find one that is still operational today, but vintage design lovers seek it out as a functional piece of art.

7. Sunbeam Hot Shot Hot Water Dispenser

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Small but mighty, the Hot Shot heated water almost instantly, perfect for tea lovers and quick cooking needs. Its bright colors and compact shape made it a popular counter companion. Nowadays, it’s more of a collector’s quirky conversation piece than a kitchen workhorse.

8. Caloric Broiler Oven

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This compact oven had a cult following because it could toast, broil, and bake smaller meals faster than traditional ovens. Its bright orange or avocado green exterior made it a retro focal point. Finding one still in use is almost like time-traveling back to cozy ’70s kitchens.

9. Hamilton Beach Juice Extractor

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With a shiny chrome finish and powerful motor, this juicer was the first step to a fresh, healthy start in many homes. It effortlessly turned oranges, apples, and carrots into nutritious drinks, often with a bit of pulp left for texture. These machines are now vintage gems, admired for their durability and retro appeal.

10. Rival Electric Skillet

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The Rival skillet was the go-to appliance for frying, sautéing, and even baking casseroles without heating the whole kitchen. Its nonstick surface and precise heat control made it a flexible cooking tool. While electric skillets haven’t disappeared completely, this particular ’70s model is rarely seen and highly valued by retro enthusiasts.

11. Braun Multimix Hand Mixer

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Before cordless hand mixers, the Braun Multimix was the reliable handheld device that made baking easier with multiple speed settings and a sleek design. It was light, efficient, and often sported warm brown or avocado green colors. Now, it’s a collectible piece, admired for its blend of form and function.

12. Black & Decker Heat ‘N Eat Food Warmer

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This quirky little appliance was perfect for warming up leftovers or small meals with a gentle heat that didn’t dry out food. It was a time-saver for busy families or workers eating at home. Spotting one today is rare but evokes memories of convenient, simple meal solutions.

13. Farberware Electric Fondue Set

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The ’70s fondue craze brought these shiny, electric sets into homes. Perfect for cheese, chocolate, or even broth-based fondues, their glowing heating element and colorful pots made dinner parties interactive and fun. Today, these sets are more collectibles than everyday tools, treasured by retro party hosts.

14. Toastmaster Rotisserie Oven

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This appliance was a countertop marvel, letting home cooks enjoy perfectly roasted chickens with a crispy skin without the fuss of a full oven. Its rotating spit and glass door invited hungry eyes to watch the magic happen. Now a rare find, it’s a nostalgic reminder of simpler, flavorful dinners from the past.

• Tags:
• Kitchen
• 70s
• rare
• appliances
• retro kitchen