Vintage vs. Modern Cast Iron-which is better?

The Twister (German Bundt)-beautifully smooth surface!

Vintage vs. modern cast iron, not much of a bigger debate exists in leading cast iron groups.

Vintage pans have a number of advantages:

  • Lighter
  • Smoother surface
  • Handmade elements
  • Heirloom quality, or passed down from generation to generation
  • Certain pieces, such as Bundt Pans are no longer manufactured
    Variety of pieces available

Disadvantages of Vintage Pieces:

  • Availability: you may not have time to search the flea market, garage sales, etc.
  • Restoration: you may not have the ability or space to restore old cast iron finds.
  • Quality: Some thinner pans may be “spinners” or don’t sit flat or aren’t suitable for a modern flat-top stove.
  • Price: Depending on where you buy, prices may be prohibitive.

Advantages of Modern Pieces:

  • Wide availability, although not as many pieces available as the vintage category, such as saucepans
  • Price point: Many modern pans are within the normal family budget, and will outlast other types of pans
  • Pre-seasoned black iron, or enameled pieces: the consumer does not have to be knowledgeable on seasoning processes.
  • Lifetime warranty: pieces I recommend in the modern category all have lifetime warranties
  • Restoring modern pieces may be easier, as modern manufacturing processes reduce flash rust

Disadvantages of Modern Pieces:

  • Heavier
  • Surface is not as smooth, although plenty of use will even out the surface somewhat.
Beautiful Le Creuset modern griddle
Le Creuset modern Grill/Griddle combo.