Selection bias dictates that if this happens you won’t notice it.
I can think of a few times people have been waiting for a refresh of something only to be slightly disappointed that not much or nothing changed: even when there was really nothing wrong.
Hardware-wise: The Volvo X60 and X90 series of cars.
Software wise: Chrome, perhaps, only one major visual change in 15 years.
OS X Snow Leopard
FWIW they can design more controls like tiles, widgets, wallpapers, user icons, toasters, calculator in the same style.
Rolex.
I really think a big chunk of the problem is that it’s very hard for anyone to say to their employer that they shouldn’t be doing work. People like having a job and finding work not to do feels scary.