Marysart,
I had broken my v1 Iliad's screen and it was entirely my fault so I am not blaming the design. (I actually stepped on it
9 months ago)
The new screen's contrast and clarity was/is a pleasant surprise. I have the device almost 3 years (6 months with the new screen) and if I hadn't cracked the screen myself I don't think there would be any problem. I am carrying it with me and I am not treating it very gently. On the other hand I keep it inside the leather cover and I am not treating it very roughly. (apart from when I am stepping on it that is
) What I am saying is that if you are reasonably careful the new screen will last and will be much better than the original one. Mind you irex may be slow in fixing it and the price is comparable to a new Sony/Kindle/other device.