Gaggia Achille Lever-Operated

The vibe:
This vintage-looking espresso machine is a real throwback, and with its cylindrical body, stainless steel housing, and domed water reservoir - you'll journey back to the golden age of espresso,

Operation:
The main power switch is the only switch used to operate the Achille. Once the Achille is powered on, the boiler maintains a steady pressure and temperature. To extract the shot raise the lever on the front of the machine then lower it at a pressure you descern.

Frothing:
The Achille has an easy-to-use Turbo frothing wand, that is capable of creating creamy micro-bubble froth.


Water:
Equipped with a large capacity boiler constructed of stainless steel, the Achille is ready to brew or steam within 10 minutes. Its temperature and pressure, can be monitored using the Achille’s pressure gauge, are controlled with a pressure regulator. The oversized boiler cycles on and off consistently and is set to maintain steady pressure and has the ability to go from brewing to steaming without wait.


Tips:
The exterior of the Achille has a beautiful high-gloss chrome and stainless steel finish. Any cleaning should be done with a soft, damp cloth. The boiler should be decalcified at least 3 times a year, depending on usage, with Cleancaf by Urnex to maintain optimum performance. In addition, the boiler should always be turned off when not in use since there is not an energy saving feature on this lever machine.

Cons:
This machine isn't for everybody; it takes time and experimentation to get the best out of it - but you know what they say: no pain no gain!

Summary:
The machine makes wonderful espresso...after a few weeks of experimenting (and using your biceps) to get the correct combination of grind fineness and tamping pressure. Once that's figured out, it can truly make some of the best espresso achievable from a homebrew machine.