Well, that sounds like a pretty expensive microwave.

Like he said, I have a clock on mine. My cook time clock is not seperate, but i have an oven clock beneath it so that doesn't matter.

I don't need a jog dial. That would be annoying. The primary use of a microwave for me is for quick heating (hardly ever defrosting). For example, Campbell's Chunky soup takes 3 minutes to cook. On my microwave, you just need to press the "3" button for quick heating.

I am also able to adjust power level while cooking (without pausing), and add time in 30 second increments.

As for a robotic maid, maybe Honda can help you out.