The first espresso machine was "the piston", invented by Bezzera in 1903. The invention was further refined by Achiles Gaggia, and put on the market under the same name. Manual espresso machines are still used today. As their technology and design have become antique, their prices have increased.

How a manual espresso machine functions

The manual espresso machine allows you to control the entire brewing process: dosing, tamping, actioning the manual lever to pressure the water through the coffee and of course, timing each of these operations. To operate a "piston", you must be able to push the lever with precision and enough strength. This alone could require a lot of training. If you want to learn how espresso works and become a skilled 'barista', a manual espresso machine is your first option. Otherwise, settle for an automatic or a semi-automatic machine.

Manual espresso machine brands

Gaggia The Factory Espresso Maker, 8 Cup can brew 16 oz. of espresso. That means 8 cappuccino cups and can be purchased at the average price of $590. Model Gaggia The Factory Espresso Maker, 16 Cup brews 32 oz. of espresso, which means 16 cappuccino cups. The price is a mere $750.

La Pavoni Europiccola Espresso Maker, Chrome Base, 8 Cup (close to $600) can produce two to four two-ounce cups, because it does not have a water reservoir. The Professional model (at around $800) can produce five-six cups before the boiler needs refilling. Both models are non-spring manually-operated espresso machines. First you lift the lever to allow the water to access the brewhead. Then push it down. The water will push through the coffee bed.

Elektra - Home Model ($900) can brew up to 10 cups (2 oz. of coffee). It is a spring manually operated machine, and works in exactly the opposite way from non-spring machines.

Other brands of manual espresso machines are Saeco, Spidem Trevi, Briel, Espressione.