Beautiful Elektra Mini Verticale and Micro Casa a Leva Espresso Machines
These Elektra espresso makers are actually miniature versions of grander machines used in Europe. They're far from the most practical units for the home, with no direct water line, a low capacity storage container, and hard-to-clean drip plates, but they are awful big and shiny. Why, one could almost call them steampunk.
They're upwards of two large, though; be aware!
Elektra Mini Verticale coffee machines [Appliancist]
Elektra Micro Casa a Leva copper and brass - lever operated espresso coffee maker [Appliancist]
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"$200 for such a pretty machine? I can handle that!"
[click]
*gasp*
I just let out a giant wistful sigh. They're so pretty. Too bad I'm a broke university student.
They review fairly well too:
Semi Automatica 8+ page review:
http://www.coffeegeek.com/proreviews/detailed/microcasaautomatica
A Leva Multipage Review:
http://www.coffeegeek.com/proreviews/detailed/microcasaleva
Possibly the best shot of espresso I've ever had in my life came off the Leva machine. It's hands on espresso.
Wait, Bender had kids? And they went for caffeine rather than alcohol? That must be an interesting story...
Seriously, though, those things look extremely nice. I would love to have one, but it'll have to wait until I get a new kitchen so I have space to put it, and even then it's behind all the other gadgets/toys I must have.
If you want high tech, check out Illy's new Hyper Espresso machine/system here: http://www.illy.com/int/coffee/illy-coffee/pods-capsules/HES.htm
They totally re-engineered the espresso "brewing" process. I so want to find the patents so I can modify my home machine...
Stay hyper,
-cajun