Review: The Olympia Cremina

The Olympia Cremina: www.olympia-ex...
The Smart Espresso Profiler: www.naked-port...
My Patreon: / jameshoffmann
Music:
"Swing It" by Joseph William Morgan
Take your films to the next level with music from Musicbed. Sign up for a free account to listen for yourself: fm.pxf.io/c/35...
Links:
My Books:
The World Atlas of Coffee: geni.us/atlasof...
The Best of Jimseven: geni.us/bestof...
Limited Edition Merch: www.tenshundre...
Instagram: / jimseven
Twitter: / jimseven
My glasses: bit.ly/boldlondon
My hair product of choice: geni.us/forthe...
Neewer Products I Use:
geni.us/neewer...
geni.us/neewer...
geni.us/neewer...

[@jameshoffmann]

I forgot to say, this video was pretty delayed in being made and the machine has already been given away. Sorry!

[@Sn0wman5]

Oh shoot! It looks so cool!

[@ziplepingouin1186]

Would you say the profiler is absolutely necessary for this machine?

[@sogcezar]

James Hoffmann that’s the whole idea on getting a machine like that, it’s more than simply coffee, it’s the journey that it will take you, the relationship with it’s simple complexity, the ever evolving learning curve, humbling you daily with new nuances and approaches...it’s the raw feeling of extracting the best with the best...us being the weakest link... Thank you for the beautiful review and it’s now on my radar, for the future... once my moment arrives...

[@daniel_cerv]

James Hoffmann James! Where did you get that great French Press poster behind you?

[@Olllie]

Possibly the best giveaway ever on this channel.

[@tomm7354]

For 3200 euros my coffee machine better come with James in the package.

[@Mumbamumba]

Hahahaha!

[@georgepokmitsosamigo]

i couldn't stand being judged by james

[@shmoolicious]

The price is somewhat on the ridiculous side...

[@policeri]

@@shmoolicious it is quiet a lot, true. but don't other people spend thousands of dollars on watches?

[@elainelafond6533]

Hihihihi !!!

[@stirfryjedi]

James: reviews 3300 quid machine Me: OK OK OK I will order new gaskets for the Moka Pot

[@Jaroslav.]

This is the best comment ever

[@glloyd9707]

Just think of it as the most expensive shot you ever had! After that the next 3299 shots are free.

[@KrauserKahn]

@@glloyd9707 Free except for the water, the coffee and the time you spend on it

[@mephtec]

so its 1 dollar every day for the next 10 years just for the machine

[@TheMrVengeance]

@@mephtec - To be fair, James did say that these machines are still going strong after 50 years. So that's about 0,18cts a day for delicious espresso the rest of your life.

[@djobokuwali4316]

This dude has never made coffee snobbery look so appealing and justified.

[@bannanafruitsalad]

You ever see a dude and think "man, I wanna see this guy in a street fight"?

[@vulcanprincess1584]

@@bannanafruitsalad that is one way to measure a human being

[@tzenophile]

@@bannanafruitsalad do you often go to street fights?

[@guner7777]

Not snobbery, passion.

[@harrylane4]

@@guner7777 even he admits it's a bit of snobbery

[@BryanKahrar]

I found my 1987 Cremina at a garage sale about 6 years ago in New Jersey. Cost me $5. I had never heard of a Cremina but I knew it was special the moment I saw it. I brought it home and turned it on.... and it leaked hot water out of every gasket. Luckily, it turns out that the US company that repairs them is about 20 miles away from me. $600 in repairs and some additional equipment including a Craigslist super jolly burr grinder, and I was off and running. My coffee game has never been the same. I love it so much.

[@bekeneel]

Lol good for you , but is it the same model like this one that is still being sold now? cuz 600$ in repairs from a superold machine is still a lot.

[@superrmang]

@@bekeneel I'd say $600 in repairs is reasonable considering that these machines are absolutely built to last and it was likely neglected by the previous owner. You're looking at $3,800 for one of these brand new and it's not like they have changed all that much mechanically since 1987. Vintage espresso machines are definitely worth it

[@bekeneel]

@@superrmang Huh, you claim these machines are really worth 4000$? If you already got one, then yes 600$ is doable, but 4000$ for such machine is insane, even if it has "perfect build quality" etc.

[@superrmang]

@@bekeneel No, $4,000 is a crazy amount for a new one. I was saying that spending $600 to repair a vintage one from the 80s isn't that bad if purchased for a cheap price

[@scottscottsdale7868]

@@bekeneel Cerini's is in the Bronx, which is where the machine is sold new and serviced, too. Arthur Ave is a great Italian neighborhood by the way. One can pull a shot on the Cremina in the store. It makes fantastic espresso. Whether it is worth it or not is solely up to the person. A new one looks fantastic. A vintage one with a patina is also fantastic. They sometimes have vintage for sale, too.

[@jooger69]

"for someone like me, who is a little bit an obsessive" ... what an English understatement.

[@jimfeldman4035]

Which, honestly, is one of the reasons I watch

[@NightFoxXIII]

Brits tend to understate a lot of things. Love the little humour in it. It's always a tad exciting to see.

[@stirfryjedi]

@@NightFoxXIII I see what you did there

[@bigblue6917]

@@NightFoxXIII You've picked up on tad. There's some hope for you yet.

[@bribbripnairbnab7301]

Come back, it's only a flesh wound said the black knight as his arm was cut off.

[@TheAbaura]

I have a Brown Cremina from 1967 (*Edit* It is from 1982, but the 67 model, Sorry I didn't lie, I just wrote before actually checking), I took it apart, cleaned and rebuilt it by hand and myself as my spring break project. I use this machine to pull 1-3 shot a day, my steaming experience is fine (considering I use non-dairy). I cannot espress (get it??) this enough, the grind size is so important, in the last week I have pulled around a dozen shots, and all of them have needed grind adjusting (Kino m47 Phoenix Hand grinder, yes it takes a while). I started off as Starbucks barista one summer with a super automatic, and this past year I used a Rocket variant, so Instead of buying my own Flair to start out with, I cleaned the Cremina collecting dust in my parents garage and spent around $20 to clean and fix and around $300 in all the accessories that I needed. I am now very happy you have reviewed the machine.

[@rodericklandreth6075]

+ Cheers, spring break coffee projects are fantastic- and make everything after more productive.

[@BBB_025]

This is quite an awe inspiring progression. Kudos for rolling up your sleeves, saving a treasure, and making it your own!!!

[@TheAbaura]

@@rodericklandreth6075 I do find it more satisfying to literally sweat for each shot sometimes (When the grind is awful and you cant give up)

[@stuffnuns]

I have a Flair, and I luv luv luv it, and you would have been happy with one, I’m sure. But, rebuilding a Cremina is EPIC! Respect and Kudos to you. The Cremina is beautiful in its simplicity. I think that is where the Flair and the Cremina are similar. Everything on the machines are made for a purpose, well engineered with quality materials. no cheap sh**.

[@TheAbaura]

@@stuffnuns Considering the shower head is $100, I too can back that statement of no cheap crap!

[@sup2320]

This dude really got me into liking coffee.. I went from drinking Nescafé to buying artisan beans, using a high quality hand grinder, measuring with a scale, worrying about extraction and brew temperatures. Now I can never go back... thanks a lot man.

[@philhapgood4893]

Same!

[@luytendries]

Haha, same here!

[@ezekielkuntz1899]

Late comer here, but yeah me too lmao

[@rxonmymind8362]

Yes. Luckily he isn't talking Ferraris. Sheesh.

[@daniel.lopresti]

You sound bitter. ;)

[@mazzenicholas]

In italy we have a saying that goes "for that price it better make me a coffee" when something is expensive. well, this shurely does

[@maderi]

same in Greece buddy i placed my automatic coffee machine on top of my pc , so when people say omg this pc costed 2k it better make coffee 2 i say yes mother fuckers it makes coffee !

[@FiratEmreKaramutlu]

Hahaha.. In Turkey we say "for that price it better makes me a kebab" and that's the beauty of different cultures . Cheers !🤣

[@AbuSalem2099]

i think it means a full featured wife

[@RuiCatarino1972]

speaking form aportuguese point of view, I don't think we spend so much time thinking about espressos but hey, we have very good coffee everywhere. the only place where I also had good coffee was in Italy.

[@SirBender]

Great one! 😃

[@TheIgor120299]

Can we get some attention to production quality of James videos, those creative intros and nice looking shots, I think he’s done a great job making it for us!

[@jameshoffmann]

Thank you for noticing! Slowly trying to get better at this stuff

[@MorzenMebs]

@@jameshoffmann no doubt thanks to skillshare😉

[@sdjohnston67]

I have really enjoyed the quality of all of his videos that I have seen so far. Excellent stuff. Artistically and educationally pleasing, both.

[@manveruppd]

@@jameshoffmann There were indeed some very loving pans across this machine that were beautifully filmed, made me really lust for it!

[@julianbueno699]

@@jameshoffmann The introduction section of the video is incredibly beautiful. Is a pleasure to watch your videos.

[@otsoko66]

My first machine was / is an Olympia Cremina that I bought in 1981 when a student (US$385 new - which as a LOT for me back then) -- I've had others, but still go back to the Cremina. It does spoil you for other machines: It is just such a pleasure to use, and it is built like a tank. The similarities to Creminas made today mean that most parts are still easily obtainable, and the machine is straight-forward to repair. Probably the best $385 I've ever spent.

[@manveruppd]

That sounds like a bargain!! :o

[@81caasi]

What's $385 in 1981 worth today with inflation?

[@doodslangpo]

@@81caasi $385 in 1981 equals $1,146.41 in 2020. www.saving.org/inflation/inflation.php?amount=385&year=1981

[@canaldepraticadejesus6600]

@@doodslangpo so €3,200 will be a little overrated

[@otsoko66]

@@canaldepraticadejesus6600 It was at a point in time when the US dollar was high, and the Swiss frank was low. Not smart on my part, just really lucky. The US dollar really started going down in the 80s.

[@RumoHasIt]

This wasnt a machine review, it was a love letter ❤

[@GrumpyGrunt]

I've spent years telling people how much I love my $30 Aeropress and the coffee it makes for the value...only to find out I secretly yearn for a $3500 Swiss espresso maker. I feel dirty.

[@GabrielaLecaro]

Grumpy Grunt hahaha omg me too! Been raving about my Aeropress for years and now, this video has ruined it haha

[@Xhsr268]

I have an upgraded la pavoni which is incredibly similar to the cremina but from time to time, I find that I really enjoy a v60 or Aeropress or even 9 min soaked french press.

[@alexlazaridisf.7276]

Give in to your perversion and go Swiss.

[@bribbripnairbnab7301]

I have two espresso machines (manual La Pavoni and Quickmill 67) and still like an Aeropress sometimes.

[@CAF749]

@@alexlazaridisf.7276 Yes, you have convinced me....My birthday is coming up in September!

[@kimorsa]

Gotta love that drum solo in the beginning

[@Aksoma]

Felt like an intro to "Comedians In Cars Getting Coffee" 😃

[@blueboots-san]

Weeb

[@eastside1997]

YES! We need more use of jazz from YT creators.

[@sdjohnston67]

Very classy!

[@tuttobicci]

I just listened to it a few times, then got on my drum kit and played it.

[@jackyboymusic1996]

I was never a coffee nerd... I started watching you a few months ago, got an Aeropress. I watched more videos and got a Chemex. I watched more and now just ordered a Flair and a Comandante. Now I need to get an Olympia.... why are your reviews so good James! My bank account can't take it!

[@pauldi7268]

Imagine if you got into euro rack synths, you'd be in so much trouble!

[@toneeviera8336]

@@pauldi7268 Lol, or art supplies

[@joshuagwynne3090]

Why a chemex? No shade intended but I haven't really seen serious coffee people using those seriously since the early 2000s. Everyone seems to be on a V60 or maybe even Clever train atm.

[@toneeviera8336]

@@joshuagwynne3090 I mean, what gets the coffee good and your attitude right IMO

[@dsmpampis]

same here! First Mokka pot, the Chemex, then Aeropress and now Rocket Appartamento. but in my opinion if you want to invest that big amount of money then just buy a La Marzocco Linea mini!

[@GabrielaLecaro]

James, this has to be one of the most informative, aesthetically pleasing and beautifully edited videos you’ve made. Massive massive fan here!

[@TheRubberDuck01]

Oh man... I 100% agree with your statement!!

[@simonon-music]

Aah no way! My brother makes all the parts for these machines and i used to work there too. So good to see a review finally, after all those hours on the machines

[@GueriliaWOT]

The production and style just keeps evolving and getting better every single time. I am fully in love with your work!

[@manuelthiele8179]

*James actually liking, what he drinks* Me: well, thats unusual... Great machine and video !!

[@BBB_025]

no higher praise than James actually finishing the shot!

[@somefreshbread]

I was shocked. I didn’t think he could ever go past “not *terrible*”

[@AdamJRichardson]

My wife got me a La Pavoni lever machine 22 years ago and it's had daily use ever since, and still going strong (has had a couple of services along the way, mostly to replace gaskets). Not as expensive as the Olympia and probably not built quite as well, but everything you say about the joy of the process and figuring out the machine over years is dead on. Being able to master things right away is over-rated :)

[@willthedingo]

An absolute gem, that machine, it's so beautiful in red. And as a student welder, I just HAD to have a bit of a unmanly groan over how gorgeous the TIG welding is on the boiler, and the fact that someone that has a deep love of coffee machines welded that. Still honestly a little sore that I did not win it, but, that's how it goes - we can all just hope that the person that receives it falls in love with the machine and it doesn't just collect dust!

[@stjamm]

"This will be useful to someone like me, who's a little bit of an obsessvive" Oh James you're not obsessive, EVERYONE loves their microwaved salted coffee fermented at the correct humidity and centrifuged to ensure the perfect sourness!

[@theohorvath5803]

You forgot that you have to buy special "soft" water!

[@stjamm]

@@theohorvath5803 I was trying to make him NOT look obsessive. Come on now!

[@theohorvath5803]

@@stjamm Ahh! Dammit

[@sidneyvilhena7848]

🤣🤣

[@juice0666]

James would *never* salt his coffee 😂

[@maxmaurer6921]

This is probably the first review that not only entertains but actually strikes a cord with me. It rare to encounter people that actually enjoy the tactical pleasure of something really really well built. I spent silly amounts of money just on quality - not because I need it or because it is actually better then the cheapo stuff - but because I am so happy that there are still people out there that care about what they do. And this is also the reason why I really enjoy this channel.

[@metavug]

James is spot on about the machine, I have had my cremina for about 6 years after starting with a Rancillio Miss Silvia. The Cremina was my reward for many years of hard work and a desire to be more engaged in my coffee making experience. It is my morning meditation and it the best coffee in town, so i am told. I also bought the newer version of the Olympia Moca grinder about 3 years ago. Same incredible fit and finish and compact. The glass bean hopper and machined cover is a piece of art. Not quite as powerful as my Mazzer (which i recently passed to my daughter) but a nice companion to the cremina. Parts and repairs are difficult especially lately and the fact that they have to come from across the pond, there are only two distributors in North America, one in BC and the other in the Bronx NY. At the end of the day, the machine is priceless, it makes my life complete, and after 6000 coffee drinks i'd say i've got my moneys worth.

[@greendoor3283]

“It’s a machine that encourages hospitality, you want to make way more espressos than you can drink”

[@tsuihintree]

Hi James, I just want to say, I’ve been on KZbin a longtime following a host of different interests and hobbies and most of these youtubers all have patreons. You are the first one that I’ve actually decided to actively support simply because of the way you communicate what you are passionate about. Like many others, I have gotten into making coffee at home during this lockdown and you are by far the person I have spent most time watching and rewatching to try to learn the craft better.

[@maximilianfiedler5173]

La Pavoni user here. You captured that greatly. At that point, when you develop a feeling for levering, and every different kind of coffee, how it behaves while youre pulling the shot, there is no espresso or cappucino you could ever compare to it. I'd say, those lever-Boiler-Machines can outrun any pump driven device in terms of taste and body, if you take the time and get into it. You will get pure drinkable Art. And on top of that, those machines prevent you from not taking your time to do it. Have that litlle rest, enjoy your life.

[@djpandup]

I'm just starting of with my pavoni and my shots always come out overly bitter do you have any tips for a beginner?

[@maxvanbeers4548]

I work in a Cafe with a brand new LA marzocco PBX and I have a La pavoni stradivari at home. The LM doesn't even come close to the LPV, which is in a sense, amazing.

[@maxvanbeers4548]

@@djpandup use less coffee, the LPV likes doses of around 11 to 13 grams, grind a little coarser. The coffee shouldn't be dripping out before you start pressing down but definitely don't use brutal force to push it down. If that is de case, you need to grind finer. Lastly, keep your pressure constant. Don't start pushing harder at the end because it becomes easier to push.

[@maximilianfiedler5173]

@@djpandup no more than 12g - dont let the puck hit the groups shower - it will bite the coffee extremely. Too fine in general or too many fine particles in your grind. Mill ok?

[@Fitz557]

@@djpandup Dude, go check the la pavoni lever machines group on Facebook. You'll find every answer to your questions there :) If it's bitter, it can be for several reasons, but my routine is : 10 seconds preinfusion, 25-30s pull, 14g of coffee with the double basket (or 7g with the single basket). Try that, and try to adjust the grinding ; if you have to push too hard, make it coarser, if you don't push at all, make it finer :)

[@peterestern8029]

In the early 1980's, long before the internet, there was an article in the NYT's that gave a very high rating to the Olympia Cremina. Based on that I bought one new in 1985 for about $350. The dollar was a lot stronger in those days although it still felt like a lot of money at the time. Been using it ever since for our morning cappuccino's. Each one made with a double shot of espresso. The steam pressure is super powerful and froths the milk in just a few seconds. Once you dial in the grinding size and tamping force, it's really quite easy to get consistently great results. Haven't had better coffee anywhere else than what I routinely and by now almost effortlessly churn out with my '85 Cremina and Baratza Vario grinder. Because the machine is fairly simple and so well designed and built it is pretty easy for me to service and maintain it myself. Orphan Espresso has a series of youtube videos that show you how to do it. The Vario is also easy for a home user to maintain and repair. I actually enjoy working on them when they occasionally need service and it is very satisfying to not have to pay someone else to work on it. If I was starting out today, I would just bite the bullet and buy a new or used Cremina. I figure I've saved many thousands of dollars over the years by making my own rather than buying my morning cappuccinos and also servicing the machines myself. It's an investment that pays off over a lifetime.

[@bekeneel]

But like the quality of the coffee can't be that great that it's better than machines made today or? I mean if it would it would be impressive but maybe it's not for that reason one would like this machine. Too bad they ridiculously overprice it, I hate that.

[@geoffsemon7411]

@@bekeneel I would guarantee that you can make as good a coffee from one of these machines if you know what you're doing as any coffee machine on the market. As Peter has been using it since '85, I'd say he has it dialled pretty well. Compared to a double boiler machine, it's a bit slower but that is the only downside

[@nikoheeren8648]

Have a 1977 version for almost 10 years now, drink two coffees everyday and it hasn’t failed me even once. A fantastic machine that takes quite some getting used to. Great review!

[@JohannesLabusch]

This is all so very Swiss! I've lived in Switzerland for most of my adult life, and the way you describe this machine perfectly encapsulates a big part of Swiss mentality. Obviously, there is a parallel to watches there. The weird thing about this kind of luxury product is the combination of the highest possible quality and obsessive workmanship with total understatement. I just looked for a dealer near where I live now, and found that they also offer a 1400$ grinder. That's almost a bargain ...

[@blah2u2kris]

Johannes Labusch dude I’ve been into coffee for a couple years now, guitars since before that and now I’m into watches and their mechanical movements. I found your comment to resonate deep within me haha.

[@JohannesLabusch]

@@blah2u2kris Yes, guitars!

[@Xhsr268]

I admire you guys’ ability to sell 100 year old technology at 100 times prices :)

[@ezaction-inlineskating2053]

Lighting so good in this episode!

[@iKone911]

I bought one of these along with the Moca Grinder new in 2016. They replaced a superautomatic I got fed up with. Probably one of the best decisions I've ever made. My ROI calculation was about 7 years based on buying coffee in cafes, but I think I've already reached that in 4 years. And it makes much better coffee. The resale value of these is also incredibly high.

[@aabsc]

Why did you get fed up with your superautomatic? I've been using one for well over 10 years and love it, it has needed repairs a few times but the 99.9% of the time it works I love it. I can set the amount of coffee per brew, grind level, and water amount.

[@iKone911]

@@aabsc I guess it depends on which brand and model you have. Mine wasn’t easy to dial in and difficult to clean. The grinder didn’t really grind fine enough. I also constantly worried it may fail one day completely. It was a DeLonghi.

[@USNTWRK]

My father bought a terrible condition Cremina from a flea market for $100 usd. After he passed, I had began to refurbish it to its former glory. Took 3 months of waiting for parts and one night of work and now I get to use it everyday. Great reminder of him and a great way to start my mornings.

[@manolomatos9790]

The attention to detail in the making of this video is superb. Lighting, audio, composition, b-roll. Just so good. Thank you James!

[@michaelbirtill5402]

As someone who owns both a semi-automatic and a manual La Pavoini coffee machine I think you hit the nail on the head with this video. I own 2 machines (much to my partners confusion) so I can have my coffee during the week when i'm busy but so I can also play with my coffee on the weekend. For may of us coffee is not just a beverage. It is a passion much like someone who has an expensive chefs knife or expensive gym shoes. Yes the cheap ones may get you by, but the better the equipment the more enjoyment you will receive.

[@MWSJoey]

I use a 1960's La Pavoni Europicola daily. It's no Cremina but uses all the same principles. I learned how to make espresso on it and it's a joy to use. The only frustrating thing about this machine is when I want to cater a group of friends. It's just not easy to pull back to back shots on a single boiler machine like this. Before you know it the group head is too hot to cool the water down and the water is too hot. I can reliably pull 2, maybe 3 shots before I have to turn off the machine by managing the two heating coils. There is no harm in simplicity. While you touched upon it in the video, the most amazing thing about using a lever machine is the muscle memory you obtain after years of use. Feeling the espresso pulls and knowing instinctively how to adjust grind settings for a new bag just because the pull was too soft/hard or the feeling when you know a shot is going to taste great before you even drink it. Simply magical.

[@Charles-ez7jl]

Terrific James how you really honour the beauty of this machine! In 2007 I got hooked making coffee on my C67 (1973) which was passed on by my father. Indeed it was a beginning of a journey and now I enjoy taking her on my vacation as to dive in this beautiful machine.

[@oldgrumpus]

I owned one of these machines for several years. I believe it was a 1985 model. I loved it! I am a bit obsessive like you. I experimented with PID’s on the Olympia Cremina. Since I was not into milk drinks, I never used the steam wand. That allowed me to lower the temperature of the boiler a bit and control it with the PID. I also added a band heater to the group head and controlled it with a second PID. When finished it looked great but after owning it for quite some time I decided to sell it. I think you nailed it completely on your review! Excellent job!

[@poopamenjaro]

I found a 1991 cremina at a thrift store for $15 this video was the first thing I saw when looking it up. Now a year an a half later, when I am considering selling to get a machine that would be better for making espresso for a party of people (and for a partner who doesnt want the hassle of "craft") I come back to this and no longer want want to sell the machine. Thank you James for accurately describing the roots to my internal conflict. This machine is too special for someone who does want to spend 30 mins playing around with coffee.

[@davschmav]

totally agree, this mechine isn't fancy, it's just incredibly well built and refined. I own one, and thru this machine have realized that there are different types of people. a friend and I always argue about this, and I finally realized. that there are feeling people and data people. he's data, loves the numbers, loves the consistency of it all. whereas I use a hand grinder (HG-1) and a lever machine, because I like to FEEL making the coffee. it's a lil different everyday, depending on the barometric pressure, the moisture in the air, the age of the coffee, the alignment of the universe, how awake I am, etc. I LOVE to "play with espresso" for 20 minutes in the morning. it's fun for me. totally get why some just want a cup o coffee, but I want an EXPERIENCE. it's very pavlovian. and I will pass this machine onto my kids it's so well built. thanks for the thoughtful review!

[@coffeewitharthur426]

I feel the same as you. I recently got a decent too and I realized I just like lever machines

[@Terztar]

La Pavoni owner here. James you nailed it! Yesterday I thought of buying a Lelit, to make the morning routine more simple. You just reminded me, why I love my Pavoni, and should never go to anything other than a lever machine. The feeling of "making" an espresso, with your hands, is just amazing.

[@ThrutheVufinder]

You deserve more credit for your cinematography! so many well-thought-out shots. That sliding reveal of the machine internals was 'perfecto' *Italian sized gesture*

[@JonathanNoackSwiss]

A new quality in video production, beautiful. Angles, colors, scenery: incredible. Congrats James!

[@danwheetman6914]

I have a machine from the late ‘60’s and it is still going strong and it brings me joy every dsy

[@MirroredRain]

What a delightful thing to open my KZbin app for the day and see you reviewing this machine! Finally a video for us lever aficionados! I do not own an Olympia Cremina, but I did purchase an Elektra MCAL not long ago and I concur with almost every statement you made about this variety of machine. I have a history as a barista so when it came time to buy a good consumer machine, I knew I wanted a lever; for the pedigree of the tech-as lever extraction machines really were the progenitors of espresso as we know it today, starting in the late 1940s with Gaggia-to the hands on experience with extraction, to the ability to control and tweak various elements of the brew process. I think you touched on an aspect of manual machines that expresses their worth when you suggested it could take years to master such a device. I view pulling a balanced 25-30 second “god shot” out of a lever machine as being akin to chasing a unicorn or finally catching a 300 lb blue fin tuna. That may be a little excessive but it really is a process that requires patience, albeit a tasty and rewarding one. Excellent video as always, and I’m happy you chose an Olympia, as I didn’t know as much about that brand prior to viewing. Cheers

[@Taurui]

I recently bought a La Pavoni Europiccola as a "travel machine". I love using it. And it's also a stunningly well designed and simply beautiful machine. Probably a very similar experience to the Cremina, as the "technology" seems to be absolutely the same. And I have pulled shouts out of it that were so good that I secretly worried that it makes me sell my "main machine" ...

[@DocPopulus]

I've got a La Pavoni I've had for years. I feel I've never been able to get the best it can do out of it. I thought maybe the machine was at fault and it couldn't be helped. But seeing that the machine you review here has the same fundamental design - albeit probably better made - has motivated me to get back at it and learn how to work it properly. Thanks, James!

[@BRLeoC]

I have this exact version and colour of the Cremina (2019). It is an absolute joy to use, it heats up quickly, is capable of producing some incredible shots (and some terrible ones until you know what you're doing). As my first lever machine, it was not easy to learn how to pull good shots with it but once it's set it is incredible. Even though you're literally pulling an espresso with it, I feel more like I'm crafting every cup. There are of course some details - first, without a pressure gauge you have no idea what pressure you're pulling with it. If you're feeling like getting a bit too overcaffeinated you can go all the way until you lift the machine. Second, the original basket is quite good but the portafilter is hideous. And while a naked portafilter is great, I struggle to get clean shots with it. My shots tend to be on the slow (delicious) side and that creates a bit of a mess in the cup and the machine. Last but not least, it's not necessary to waste water to heat up the grouphead. If you lift the lever just above horizontal, water will flow through the grouphead without being dispensed. Few pumps and the grouphead is toasty and ready to go. So convenient.

[@tyroneedge8267]

I'm curious what you don't like about the stock portafilter?

[@d4v3s1220]

If you're making a mess with the naked portafilter, then the problem lies in your tamping where it's producing channeling. I personally didn't like the original Cremina basket, I got better results using other baskets I bought elsewhere. I also use a naked portafilter and pulls for a shot are also long.

[@huntmooses]

We got ours 10 years ago for $800. it was our first espresso machine, and it took us years to pull good espresso, and everything that James said I agree with. We just think it is awesome. And we’re glad that they’re continuing to make them, and we’re glad that we did not spend €3200 on ours. But we wish we had more friends we could share it with, because we don’t know anyone else who has one, or even anyone else who has a home lever machine. If you’re in Seattle and have one, say hi!

[@DanSlades]

When you watch this and realise you don't want an espresso, you want a hobby

[@bradleydowis3134]

And here I was praying for a lever espresso maker review just the other day from James, oh how you spoil us so!

[@bane2]

I have a black Cremina from the early 90s and it's easily the favourite thing I own. It's been incredible for so long and every time I make an espresso with it, it feels just as joyous as the first time. Thank you James for a beautiful review of a beautiful machine.

[@silasmoon]

Purchased a used one in January as our first home machine. Had a Bellman stove top before. Ours is from 1991 and paid $800 for it. It needed a bit of maintenance and cleaning is all. I use it with a naked portafilter and Vario grinder. I'm completely obsessed with it, and like you said am still tackling the nuance. Your videos have taught me how to use it! I find myself "feeling" the brew pressure and concentrating on the color, aroma and time as I brew. It's made me really enjoy the operation from a observe the process not the numbers kind of way. When build quality is this good, you realize you can't blame the machine. It's also so compact and elegant. You realize it's art. Good design is expensive. So is Swiss labor. I do take notes when dialing in new roasts. I've also gotten into 10g ristretto shots with it as of late. We have been making Gibraltars for friends while our cafes are shuttered here for shelter in place. It's indeed a vector for hospitality.

[@KelsoVSCox]

The smart espresso profiler looks way better on that machine than I had imagined

[@laufcra]

I'll second other people's comments, the espresso lovers among us would be interested in hearing your take on the La Pavoni lever machines vs the Olympia.

[@robertshelly9088]

'For what it's worth, I used a 1980 Pavoni europiccola for 8 years (1998-2006) and loved it. Then I managed to get my hands on a 1973 Cremina in 2006 and realised that while the machines are similar in functionality the Cremina does everything better and is far more consistent. Then I purchased a new Cremina in 2012 and that's it for me. My last machine. Combined with a good grinder (a Kafatek Monolith) I have no upgradeitis. As for the difference between the Pavonis and Creminas it's simple. The Pavoni can make a god shot, and quite often if you're adept. But the Cremina does this more regularly, more easily and more pleasurably. It is also more sturdy. Less prone to problems and easier to service, and importantly far better made. They both last a lifetime with care, but the Cremina needs less servicing (and for both the servicing can be done oneself). I love them both, but the Cremina is a far, far better machine.

[@Jarzyniak]

@@robertshelly9088 as an Europiccola user I was curious about this myself so it's interesting to see your perspective

[@IMAWriterRobJ]

@@robertshelly9088 yes, consistency is the word. Put a teflon gasket between the boiuler and group and temperature is even easier to manage.

[@puritan7473]

@@robertshelly9088 Thank you for this, I have been trying to decide on the best lever machine for me for a few years now, so glad I clicked to see the replies!

[@puritan7473]

@laufcra I'd love to see that!!

[@AZyzk]

I found it scrolling on Instagram and dear lord! Just seeing it I thought: It's expensive, it's stunningly designed and probably very good... Your video just confirmed all the aforementioned. But it's clearly for a more mellow point of my journey.

[@Chuzini]

My go-to coffee makers were antique vacpots until last year when I got an aeropress and a DeLonghi Dedica. I'd only just begun understanding espresso when a Cremina popped up in my town... for $30. I didn't know what I was looking at until I posted a picture of it in a group and suddenly I was being offered hundreds of dollars for it. I rushed out to pick it up, then did my homework. What a shock. I repair sewing machines so will have no trouble learning how to get this 1984 sweetheart back in good condition. One day I'll actually get an espresso out of it.

[@ryanchiong]

Proudest achievement this quarantine: being early on James’ video

[@Fitz557]

LP owner here. First of all, I really loved the video, I really love the Olympia, and I really loved what you said about lever machines ; that is exactly how I feel too, and I love to be geeky with my lever machine as well. BUT I really wonder if you get better espressos with that machine than you would get with my LP that I bought less than 500€ new. It's obviously not a competition, I'm just thinking that they look a bit similar, and I wonder why the price is that much higher.

[@nicksnow5606]

Thanks James Hoffmann; I hope YOU have a great day too.

[@tomspotley5733]

Aesthetically that ticks all the boxes for me. The proportions are gorgeous.

[@lucasmunoz7413]

James, I love your work, enthusiasm and ability to teach. Can you cover cheap espresso machines? I understand they aren't going to get barista like coffee but I bought a real cheap one off of amazon and following your guides I think I was able to find a good ration and able to control it to give me good, at-home shots. It would be great to see if there are any that would be "James Worthy" of at-home machines that help starters, well, get started without spending hundreds, or in this cast thousands, on their new hobby. Thanks for all your content! You've helped me learn to make great coffee.

[@VikramKalidindi]

Have to agree with this. I certainly wouldn't mind taking the time to fine tune and learn how to pull a good shot with a cheaper machine, even if it's more difficult. There's got to be atleast one (somewhat) affordable machine that can refrain from murdering the beans you've put in it.

[@1thetempest]

He did review a cheaper machine recently from one of the UK department stores. kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqapgpWffruIodk

[@JaredCzaia]

He made a dialing in video and a product review video of a Breville. That's a pretty common beginner machine.

[@davidacs5052]

@@VikramKalidindi ah I loved that one! :D

[@MarkPermann]

Gaggia Classic and a great grinder (Vario W myself) is all you need. I have lusted after the Cremina and other machines as espresso is definitely a hobby for me, but my Classic, helped by a bottomless portafilter and Londinium distribution tool is just so good for my purposes - including size and heating time - I’ve never been able to justify the splurge. It is truly the best value on the market IMO for straight espresso (can make milk drinks too but there might be better options for that - for more money of course). Classic has also been around a long time, decades.

[@sonnakabana]

Nice machine. My 70's Europiccola is still going strong. Those things are indestructible.

[@sourjj8075]

I usually don’t comment but I will for this. I owned few espresso machines and I knew the virtues of the Olympia,called luck or faith I happen to find one that was thrown away it’s from the 70s I refurbished it was missing few parts. This is the ultimate manual espresso machine the built quality is awesome the simplicity of the Design the easy of maintenance and repair. But the best part is the joy of using it and what comes out of this piece of art is pure pleasure it’s Like driving a vintage sports car pure unadulterated,uncompromising espresso pleasure.

[@rasqual78]

After roasting and doing a farmer's market (selling beans and aeropressing to order) for a dozen years, I finally got into espresso. Had been wanting to for 10 of those years, but put it off -- for exactly the reasons you cite. If a person's serious about coffee, it's like taking on a child. ;-) My Cremina is an '83. I picked up the analog gauge kit (so sweet), went naked on the PF (and found a nice steampunk mirror to help with that), insulated the boiler a bit, and use a dist. tool instead of tamp, with a spunbond polyester filter atop the puck. Little channeling. 17.4g doses work fine, especially with less pressure. Has silicone seals in the group head now. Make my own water. It's. absolutely. awesome (saying that after two years with it). I think you nailed everything in this review. While it'd be fun to have a new one, for 2-3 times the cost of this one I'm just lacking in any degree of disatisfaction to warrant the investment. ;-)

[@flopsiejmcardle]

I loved the line- "do you want a cup of coffee, or do you want a hobby?" I got an '86 Cremina 6 years ago, and use it every day. Its lead to using a hand grinder, and roasting my own coffee as well.

[@yvonnekithi9430]

How I knew I was a coffee nerd: "They want a cup of coffee, they don't want to spend half an hour playing with espresso in the kitchen" That immediately sounded like a well-spent half an hour

[@radiantav]

Yvonne Kithi 👋🏻🙋🏻‍♂️

[@TheRubberDuck01]

Yes!!!! I laughed out loud when he said this because I was thinking the same thing you did!

[@FesixGermany]

I just discovered this channel a few weeks ago and although I'm not that into coffee I really like watching your videos, nice calm talking, good structure, well made.

[@chrisw.4600]

Hi James, it was really refreshing to watch your review! You have the right mix between showing and talking...your speech includes both facts and opinion and you are not appearing like other loving themselves than bringing the message. Really good review and good advice you gave. It gives a true and honest idea why to by this machine, Thank you.

[@SideSteppingAverage]

As someone who is loving their Rok GC... This is making me a little jealous still. Great video too, love th editing and heavier jazz element in the start too

[@awad0b]

Hey, love this review. Don't own a cremina, but I do own a la pavoni. Which I bought cheap and improved with little effort. These machines are just another level of nerdiness, with a very slow learning curve, much excitement on every shot and an icebreaker with every new guest staying over for coffee. I love the easy fixes, the nerdiness, the robustness, the romance. Thank you for a wonderful review.

[@sinas52]

i have a cremina from back '69 and i love it i repairit myself every 2 year and work's perfectly

[@nehok]

I can't justify 3k euros on a home machine but I did just pick up a used la pavoni pro for £300, which I'm currently rebuilding and I suspect offers 95% of what you get out of this machine. It does look very lovely though, so not saying it isn't worth it.

[@ScottMicciche]

This has always been a dream machine for me because of the price, but it is a work of art in its simplicity, reliability and most of all, its ability to be serviced over and over again. My lever machine is a La Pavoni Europiccola, another simple design also fully able to be serviced as well as a timeless design. Great review, James! Cheers!

[@The_Coffee_Rabbit_Hole]

It took me 10 years to find one used at resonable price. I had more than a dozen of La Pavoni from many size and years, i had many elekra leva , i had few riviera and even a Faema Lambro one group. What i can tell you is after fully rebuilt my cremina, i pull one shot .... and that shot was mind blowingly delicious ! The steam power is also solid ! All in a well built small package , perfect for the home or office without being over powering like many espresso machine .... i dont see any machine that check as much box than this one ❤

[@waynemartin8749]

I love these machines. In fact as a hobby and to make extra money I buy old Cremina's that are rusted, don't really work well, and leak water from any place I can find them. I get most off eBay. But pay too much for them sometimes. I have found a few over the years in garage sales and FaceBook Market place and even an antique store one time. I disassemble the machine, have the case, and frame sandblasted and powder coated by a really good company close to my home. I have the chrome parts re-chromed. I clean the rest of the machine up and install a completely new gasket kit from the MFG. I polish the stainless parts to a mirror finish. I then sell them on various online sites and actually make a fair profit. When I am finished with these machines they look and operate like a Brand New machine. I have two of these machines I have re-built and meet with my best friend once a month either at his house or mine and we spend about 4 hours pulling shots, comparing results, and sharing new ideas and methods we have tried. Great video by the way. Thanks,

[@eliabtorres1548]

This machine costs more than my car

[@marcusmay5461]

Damn lol

[@michaelbank7203]

The 0.79¢ Ikea cup with the $3K machine kills me

[@bohsonca]

This was my dream machine when I was still making espresso at home. I have since moved on exclusively to alternative methods, but I still like this more than I should.

[@vintageclobber]

Never own a espresso machine before and rarely drank espresso, My 1971 Olympia Cremina was found at a carboot sale in dorset for a ridiculously cheap price. Persuaded by a city hipster friend i decided to keep it, this was in 2010. its been a joy to live with... Such a simple design, Simlpe to self service and Takes pride of place in the my kitchen, i am by no means a coffee snob But believe its more about the quality of coffee and not the machine, I love the Vintage Style and craftsmanship from my Cremine more... i have not drunk instant coffee in 12 years now 🤣

[@akronyme]

My parents got one when I was a child. It was rebuilt by my father, but unfortunatly the boiler got too much leak to be repared. At this moment, ealry 90's, nowere to buy easy replacement part and my father threw it away... I used to be the one who make the best coffee with that machine, even if I didn't drink it at that time (12 yo)! But actually, I developped the sensation of how I need to tamper and how much pressure to make good coffee. It's my father words, maybe he was just too lazy and prefer me to make it ;) Nevertheless, I now own a La Pavoni pro millenium, and it took me quite a long journey to enjoy it, but the more I use it, the more I like it! Will try to get around and find a Olympia one of those day, must be a bit easier as I live in switzerland..

[@hititmanify]

what is it with italian kids making stuff

[@HappyAccidentVideos]

I’d love you to talk about La Pavoni at some point. And maybe the Flair as well.

[@michaelschenker8326]

Mine is a 1991 bought on eBay for $800 about six months ago. My mother had a neglected 1978 which my brother faithfully restored to perfect condition and he was the inspiration in my buying this machine. Manual grinding with the Orphan. I only drink one a day but it is my favorite time of any day. I’m sure it will outlive me!!

[@expresso4586]

gotta say it.. best machine ever made. pricey but so are some of the best things in life. anyway i've owned one and the worst decision I've ever made was selling it. I could have kept it but I didn't. I sold it when I left the country. But I'm back and now I regret it.. mine was a 2015 and I had purchased it for $3200. now it's $3800usd. I have a kid coming so my priorities have changed. but I hope to have one again soon.

[@larsenpedersen]

I was looking for the next step in my coffee journey, and was contemplating a GS/3 or perhaps a Linea Mini... Now I also want this :/ Damn you, James Hoffmann!

[@ordoordo]

If you like that one, then check this out :D londiniumespresso.com/store/lever-espresso-machines?product_id=141

[@ikihaku]

Why it's so expensive? "The company has been founded in Switzerland..." - Could have stopped there

[@DeepPurpleIsTheBest]

It’s like our watches in a way, the perfection of simplicity, focus on craftsmanship and the raw material used to make something last forever

[@ok603]

Exactly

[@marylandflyer5670]

I can absolutely appreciate the design and function of the Cremina, I’m quite happy with 12 year old Bezzera Strega. Levers have always been my favorite. Very fine review.

[@ltlbee]

I thoroughly enjoy watching your videos! The information, the aesthetics and you as a person, just makes the whole experience very enjoyable. Thank you for all you do. :)

[@keytree69]

It'd be interesting to see your take, James, on the difference between the Cremina and the much cheaper La Pavoni machines which seem very similar in function on the surface.

[@midi6700]

For me La Pavoni is the end game machine. Best espresso, ease of use, ease of service, ease of pressure profiling for different beans, price, size - everything makes sense. Now I have to get rid of my huge double boiler monster to save counter top space.

[@keytree69]

​@@midi6700 I've had a pre-millenium Pav for 14 years now. Panders to my inner control freak and supplies exactly the ritualistic satisfaction that James talks about at the end of this video. It has that visceral pressure profiling straight back up your arm. It's so quiet. And I prefer the aesthetic to the blocky Cremina - the Pav is quite a beautiful little machine IMO. But it's far from perfect. Consistency is a challenge. The portafilter is just a little smaller than I like. I ended up fitting a bypass switch to the pressurestat on mine so I could run the boiler pressure up for steaming - the brew pressure seems too low. I now have to make all the coffee in the house - no-one else has invested the time to learn how to use it "correctly". And just try and make more than two or three coffees without burning them to undrinkability as the group heats up. Hence my comment, I guess: does the extra arm, leg and kidney you pay for with the Olympia solve any of these problems? Does it improve any of the good things? Or is it getting into the territory of paying the extra so you can own an Olympia?

[@TheEnglishRedneck45]

To answer your question - do I aspire to someday own one? - I didn't, but now I do.

[@DarkMachine2501]

People always obsess over the price of things like this, but the maker (like with proper Swiss watches etc.) isn't trying to sell you this thing based on price but on the quality. As James said, the maker is looking for customers to still have this machine in 50 years and for it to still be making great coffee (with the recommended cleaning and maintenance of course). Its a family item. You will use it, your kids (or younger relatives) will use it when they get old enough, even their kids should be able to use it. And most of all, they'll WANT to use it because its a beautiful, simple and interactive machine that gives you a good experience. I just love companies that obviously know the value of what they make and give you everything they have when doing so. It's something that's often lost in today's world of fast, disposable everything. Also, great video James, the lighting and camera work are some of the best I've seen on KZbin and on the net in general, you could honestly put this on a TV magazine program and it wouldn't look out of place. Brilliant work.

[@clintow]

James, as someone who loves working with my hands and making something beautiful, the enthusiasm you developed for this machine is absolutely moving. Guess I better start saving pennies.

[@cameronwebber9352]

"Unctuous" is now my word of the day

[@rodsnyder6020]

Looks like a Pavioni in a red dress. Electra (in the beautiful brass/copper version) or Zacconi machines are way more compelling to me.

[@MirroredRain]

Rod Snyder not to sound like I’m tossing vitriol toward other machines (I love La Pavoni and Bezzera and as of this afternoon, Olympia) but I really appreciate your comment. Elektra is unfortunately glossed over or forgotten a lot of the time in comparison to the other major lever brands. I can find a zillion La Pavoni videos on KZbin but very few recent, quality Elektra videos. When it comes to discussion online people tend to neglect the these machines as well, which is a shame seeing as they’re almost as old and venerable as Gaggia and the other early espresso manufacturers. I understand that some of the other makers like La Pavoni have more models and lower price points, but the Elektra MCAL is less than half the price of the Olympia in the video and I think it’s (I guess subjectively) the most beautiful espresso machine in the world. Not to mention that the MCAL when maintained properly lasts for decades like the Olympia. It also tends to edge out the other lever machines overall in deep dive reviews so I’m not sure why people tend to forget they exist. Sorry for the rant and the huge chip on my shoulder haha! Cheers

[@stirfryjedi]

Appreciate it Alec, I was looking at the Cafelat Robot for a while, and this comment section has really opened up my eyes to all the lever machine & manufacturer names people have been bringing up.

[@rodcalarco5069]

I live in NYC and for years have been looking for a small machine. Space as most people know comes at a premium in New York. About a year ago I was at a friends place and her husband made me a delicious espresso. The minute I saw the machine I knew that it was the one for me. His was a 1986 that he bought brand new as a student in college. He's had it ever since. I ended up finding a 1976 Cremina in near perfect condition. It's the pride of my kitchen.

[@youremostwelcome]

I'm a working barista (or was, pre-pandemic), and use an 80's La Pavoni Pro as my daily workhorse. I can definitely agree with James' opinion RE learning curve and honing your process. I've been using this machine daily for about 2 years now, and very often there will be new 'revelations' that just improve the process and resultant shot just a little bit. It's satisfying and enjoyable. I'd be interested to see James' thoughts on a La Pavoni as a similar, more affordable take on this genre of machine.

[@pierregagnon5457]

Hy! I myself use La Pavoni and facing some "sour" taste... have any clues? Thanks

[@JeremyJensenTheOriginal]

James: "They don't want to spend a half an hour playing with Espresso in their kitchen." Me: Feeling sad, as I'm 45 minutes into playing with flow profiling on my Profitec machine while watching James Hoffman vids on my kitchen TV. James: "But some of us do want to spend half an hour playing with Espresso." Me: :)

[@TheFinalMB]

That’s one hecking nice machine. I think this is the kind of machine you’d want to wake up early on a weekend to spend some time with. The idea of sunlight breaking through the morning fog, a nice comfy dressing gown and this machine waiting for you to brew something delicious seems almost magical. Sure it wouldn’t be as convenient as say an automated drip filter, but if you’re wanting to really have a physical connection to your coffee apart from the consumption, it doesn’t feel like it would get much closer than this. Also, I have to ask what coffee you were using here? Watching your reaction to the shot made me want to reach into the screen and steal it for myself :p

[@mikeneary4638]

My wife bought me a 1988 Cremina, I think she paid around $600 USD for it in 1990. I have used it pretty much every day, at least once and often twice a day. I absolutely LOVE this machine. Don't know what it is about it, you captured much in the video. It's smooth, consistent, solid, just fantastic. I probably change out some (not all) of the gaskets every year or so, that's pretty much all the maintenance I need to do. If you're relatively handy it's doable. And parts are, thankfully, still available. The only thing I've never been able to replace are the gaskets on the water sight glass, but there are no leaks so guess no reason.

[@peterestern8029]

Sooner or later the seals on the ends of the sight glass will start to leak and need to be replaced. Orphan Espresso sells upgraded silicone seals for the sight glass that are superior and less expensive than the Olympia original seals and they have a series of videos showing how to rebuild the entire machine including a video that shows the sight glass seal replacement procedure.

[@mikeneary4638]

@@peterestern8029 Thanks, I'll look for that. The site glass just seemed so stuck AND it's glass, so I've been worried about breaking it in trying to replace those seals.

[@oldgoat8861]

I'd love to own one. I love the "Old School" of lever machines, and this has the bonus of a heat tank adding "New School" to it. The craftsmanship in build quality.....yes I'd love to have one.