I second the vote for Weller.
I spent a few very happy years using Weller Soldering Irons on an almost daily basis in the 1980's. The rest that stops you burning the bench (or yourself) between uses is invaluable. The temperature is controlled so they don't overheat.
I only have a very cheap soldering iron as it doesn't get a lot of use. The cheapest soldering irons do not have a thermostatic control worth talking about and some can overheat - I rest mine on a heat sink (vice or large hammer) between uses.
