Couldn't believe it.

Not far from greenville, SC - there was an ad for coffee shop equipment, where they had closed down.

I called, and wanted to know specifics, model numbers, etc. The young guy on the phone, didn't know but said he would e-mail a list. So, on the list they e-mailed, there was an "espresso grinder"

I called him back, and asked him to read me the label - he said "super jolly timer" - it's Astoria badged.

So, it looks like I'm getting into making espresso.

Now if I can have similar luck with a machine _grin_

George, I'd probably invest the $45 or so for some new burrs. $300 is a fine price, if the SJ is in better than decent condition externally/internally.
Congrats!

I'd probably invest the $45 or so for some new burrs

I originally was thinking I might have to do that, but this unit is so pristine it appears to have very little use.

Very little wear and tear is visible, and I'm thinking it might be a waste.

Haven 't torn it down to inspect the burrs, yet.

I found a manual on-line, it appears that I just remove a safety screw and pull the stepless adjusting ring up to get to the burrs.

If there's any question about the burrs, I will replace them.

George...the ring rotates off, however one must be VERY careful in re-installing, as cross-threading can occur...a very bad thing.
Dan Kehn has a thread here that explains the proper way to clean the SJ, and the proper technique to assure no cross threading when re-installing the adjustment ring.

Rob, thanks for pointing this new guy in the right direction - I'll find that thread.

best regards

george

See the Grinders forum FAQs and Favorites.

thanks guys - You guys are getting me off to a great start here.

the instructions on taking apart and reassembling made it quite easy.

Actually, the Super Jolly was not nearly as dirty as my Super Automatic Spidem Villa will get in 6 months use.

The external cosmetics looked very much like it had seen little use - and the burrs looked great, ridges felt sharp, no perceptible nicks, etc - and cleanup was quick and easy with a few q-tips, brushing and blowing it all out with an air hose.

So, I just reassembled it - tightened the collar down, and backed off to the "start here" sticker. So, I'm going to start looking for a machine, now.

Something tells me that it might be harder to pick up a "barely used, like new" espresso machine for 45% of what a new unit will cost - but hope springs eternal for craigslist and ebay

How about something like this?

http://raleigh.craigslist.org/hsh/1249524274.html

that's a great find.

I sent an e-mail to see if they still have it.

It's four hours from me, but I'll be going thru there in several weeks, so might be able to work something out.

thanks for the link!

Let us know how you make out.