i dun really go into details on the mechanism, etc... when i got my first house, i went to ssc to look for mixers, taps, etc.. at that time i saw paffoni they have package which i find is quite affordable. now i hv used for 7yrs, the lever still smooth and since i wash it regularly, it still shines likes new (but some taps due to some assistance i got cleaning it, where they used those green scouring pad, it got scratched).. one time my kitchen mixer i am using those extendable one.. then the head broke.. i went to ask how much it cost to replace the whole thing, they say, new one cost abt $150, installation is $50.. but i tell them wah so ex hor.. then they tell me, if ur just the handle broke, then just buy the handle la. $20 or wat.. i ask can fit? they say can, like std size.. then tat mixer the lever like stuck, very hard, same i go ask to buy new one, they say, if just lever, u just need to buy this component, $25, just change it.. now its as good as new...
anyway i dun buy high end one, just those entry level package one, quite affordable..