If your a true foodie then you're well aware of the brand name Viking, one of the original all stainless steel (I still prefer stainless steal finish to the new trendy bronze finish ) professional line of stoves, ovens and refrigerators. Viking has been around long before Chefs were rock-stars, the food network and it was trendy to have professional food industry preparation stoves in your home kitchen.
While they may have lead the trend in the early 90's, Viking might need to make a few new changes to the classic design if they're going to continue to be a leader. Viking is not the only choice anymore. I have cooked on many different Viking stoves and encountered this same flaw, you cant read the knobs, you have to get a leg workout squatting down to look at the flame and adjust the knob. It's true, it's not like the knob has detailed data on it, your looking at the flame and most Pros only need to calibrate by sight of the flame. However, the weighted line printed on the knobs IS NOT VISABLE. Why put any data on at all if you have an obstructed view? While I have many good things to say about Viking stoves, I share in Hayman's frustration.
Other "elite" prosumer kitchen stove brands are well designed and Viking would be smart to listen to loyal customers. If they don't, shame on them. In today's competitive market even mega status brands like Viking can't afford to ignore good design. I would choose and recommend another brand (I know many interior designers who would agree with me) if Viking chooses to ignore prosumers. Please check out Aza Rashkins Get Humanized blog where he discusses stove knob placement design.
