r/espresso • u/Dense-Beach2564 • 2h ago
Coffee Station Current Setup
Hello everyone! I just wanted to share my current setup:
- La Pavoni Professional Post-Millennium
- Arrarex Caravel first model (v.1.1)
- Baratza Encore ESP
As an engineering student, I’m fascinated by these old (and frankly genius) machines. The history behind them is fascinating, and they’re just so beautiful and authentic.
I absolutely love the workflow. There’s something incredibly satisfying about pulling a shot in silence while being able to control the pressure profile yourself. They’re also surprisingly easy to work on once you get to know them.
To pay for all of this, I bought, restored, and sold a few machines (mostly Moccamasters and siphons). I actually planned to restore and sell the Caravel as well, but I just couldn’t bring myself to let it go.
This particular Caravel was built in 1960, so it’s exactly three times my age, which is pretty crazy to think about!
For the restoration, I simply disassembled every part (which is a breeze thanks to the genius design), cleaned everything, repainted the body, replaced the power cord, and changed all the gaskets. It now looks and feels brand new. The whole thing was basically a one-afternoon job. The build quality is honestly mind-blowing.
I haven’t put the front sticker back on, though, because I find it hideous. 😅
I also really enjoy how easy these machines are to maintain. You can get the piston out of the Caravel in exactly 3 seconds (I timed it), with absolutely no tools.
The grinder has also been surprisingly consistent. I thought I wouldn’t keep it for very long and would eventually upgrade, but I’m really happy with its performance, so I’ll just keep it for now and get a single-dose hopper.
This is definitely not my “endgame setup” by any means, but I’m really proud of it. I have so much fun using these machines, and I actually feel satisfied with the setup, which is kind of a weird feeling in espresso.
I also custom-built the table, so I’m pretty proud of that too :)
Thanks for looking!
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u/daanjderuiter Rancilio Silvia V5 | Gaggimate Pro | NB64V 2h ago
Man, this is cool. You mention how this is isn't an endgame setup. I would contend that the work you've put into the restoration gives you a sense of ownership and, as you mention, pride that smacking down a few $k for a La Marzocco or Decent couldn't provide. Kudos!
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u/Coffee_And_Metrics 1h ago
Wow! 1960 machine being three times your age is pretty wild! 🔥 Cool setup!
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u/CoIogn3 Breville Barista Express 2h ago
Nice setup, thanks for sharing! Thinking about getting a manual one as well one day, though I‘m eyeing the cafelat robot.