Availability of Used Lever-Type Espresso Makers?

[carolchuck]

Hello to all!

I'm brand-new to this forum, which I'm really finding interesting; and I hope some of you might have the time to answer some very basic questions. I'm not really the coffee aficionado of my house; that's my SO, Robert (an Italian trapped in a German body). He has been collecting (resale shops, yard sales, antique stores) different types of used espresso makers for several years now, like the Vesuviana, and he'd really like to get a hold of a lever-type machine to experiment with. I've just started looking around, ebay mostly, but I wondered if any of you might know of a good way to locate an inexpensive La Pavoni--that's the brand I've seen the most of--or similar lever-type machine. Are there dealers of used espresso makers and, if so, could any of you list a few names/websites? (I haven't been able to locate any dealers of used machines on the internet.) Also, is it possible to get a used lever machine--in working order but not cosmetically pristine--for under $150? (Perhaps I'm being naive.) My local phone book only lists one source who deals much with espresso makers--primarily to repair them. But he doesn't like the lever type ("too much trouble...") and doesn't seem interested in them. Any idea what other sources I might try? I've noticed that many of you seem to have several machines and extra parts, too. Do you ever offer them for sale on this or other websites? Anyway, I'd appreciate any advice you might have to offer. Thanks much.

Carol

[bill]

Hi Carol,
In my opinion, probably the best source of used espresso machines is Ebay. I'm not sure where you live, but at least down here in Texas espresso is still relatively new and finding a used lever machine locally is like looking for the proverbial "needle in a haystack".
A few years ago I was able to buy a used La Pavoni from a fellow down in Austin for $125, but spent that and a little more getting seals replaced, etc. to put it in working order. You can probably find one on Ebay for $150 or less, but just be prepared to rebuild it. I'd recommend a La Pavoni because parts are readily available. Also, as you can tell from this forum it's capable of making good espresso. Case in point; I bought a nice looking Enrico of Italy machine on Ebay and ended up converting it into a table lamp! Good luck.
Bill

[HB]

Lever machines are among the items on CoffeeGeek's Buy & Sell. They are typically in good working order, i.e., not rebuild candidates. I would check there before heading to eBay.

[bill]

Carol,
Just checked out the CoffeeGeek.com site Dan recommended. He's right! That looks like a good source for you to find what you want. Happy shopping.
Bill

[Rockygag]

Carol;

I have a Olympia that is in OK working order, but could use a rebuild. Time is scarce right now, so I am thinking of dropping the rebuild project. I paid just at $300 for it. It's missing the drip tray, and the wire cover to the drip tray. The neck is bent a bit. All that said, I have made quick a dirty replacement for the screen and drip tray, and the neck does not affect functionality.

If something like this interests you, drop me a PM. If this offends any one, sorry about that, I'm really just not sure if I want to drop the project or not ...........

Best;

rockygag

[ScottP]

Rockygag,

I have been looking for a olympia for the past 5 months or so that I could afford (one that needed some work) . I would be very interested if you do decide that you want to sell it. I would also like to say a quick thanks to all the forum members for the great info. I have been lurking here for a long time trying to figure out what the best machine for me was. As you can guess I decided I wanted an Olympia. Sorry for butting in on your topic Carol. I may have an old microcimbali for sale if I find an Olympia and get it working well. Rockygag, if you could e-mail with more info. if you do decide you want to sell it, I would love to work something out. Thanks, Scott spaulsonjh(at)yahoo(dot)com