Wear Ever Aluminum Oven Bun Basket Retro 3 piece Server Bakelite Vents 2170904 Bun warmers or serving ovens were popular in the 1950s and 1960s before microwaves. They are handy for reheating bread, buns, potatoes and other food. A small amount of water is placed in the base and the food in the pan is steamed. This can be done on top of the stove (low heat only) or in a warm oven. Steam can escape from holes at the top of the lid. The handles feel like bakelite. All aluminum scratches and shows some discoloration from use. The bun warmer is 9 inches in diameter and 7 inches high. Small dents from regular use can be seen throughout.