Exploring the Design of the Timemore C3 ESP Pro

Exploring the Folding Crank

As an enthusiast of travel mills, I was instantly drawn to the Timemore range due to its unique feature – the folding crank. This is a significant advantage that sets it apart. Since this system is patented, it’s hard to find any other brand that offers a similar feature. Some might bring up the 1Zpresso brand, which also has a folding crank. However, the key difference is in its compactness: when folded, the 1Zpresso crank still occupies some space. In contrast, the Timemore’s crank neatly tucks into the body of the mill, making it a more space-efficient choice.

The handle of the Timemore C3 ESP Pro is crafted entirely from stainless steel and seamlessly integrates with the aluminum cap. Despite its compact size, this handle provides an exceptional grip. It’s uniquely designed with a ball bearing system, setting it apart from competitors like 1Zpresso, Kingrinder, and El Comandante C40, which use a clip system. The exemplary build quality of the Timemore C3 ESP Pro not only ensures durability but also prevents the handle from accidentally detaching from the crank.

When you fold the crank, a rubber stop is there to ensure that the metal part of the crank doesn’t touch the body of the mill. It’s a neat little feature that helps protect your mill!

Just a quick heads-up for all you coffee enthusiasts out there! At Timemore, when you see the “Pro” label, it signifies the inclusion of a handy folding crank. Interestingly, there’s another variant of this mill, known as the Timemore C3 ESP. It’s a more budget-friendly option, but please be aware that it does not come with a folding crank.

Another noteworthy feature of Timemore’s mills is the ball-bearing mounting of the handle. This design ensures a smooth rotation of the handle and safeguards it from being accidentally detached by a simple pull. This is a significant improvement over other brands that use a clip system, which can be less secure. With a clip attachment, there’s a heightened chance of the handle becoming loose, leading some users to seek help from after-sales service. This is where Timemore shines, offering a superior and reliable solution.

Exploring the Structure of the Mill

The body of the mill is crafted entirely from aluminum. This sets it apart from other brands that typically choose a completely smooth body, necessitating a rubber ring to enhance grip and stop the mill from slipping. In contrast, Timemore has opted for a grooved surface. From my personal experience, I find the grip to be quite comfortable. Moreover, the mill remains stable during use, not spinning on its own due to this innovative design, even with the torque produced by the grinding process.

Exploring the Adjustment Wheel

Unlike its larger counterpart, the Timemore S3, the C3 ESP Pro features its adjustment knob directly on the grinding wheels, offering a unique design twist.

Just like the C40’s “Red Clix” kit that enhances the number of clicks available, the Timemore C3/C3S models provide a robust 12 clicks per revolution. However, the C3 ESP model steps it up a notch with a whopping 30 clicks, mirroring the functionality of a mill equipped with the C40’s kit.

The Timemore C3 ESP is designed with precision in mind, offering an adjustment granularity of 23.3 µm for each click. This feature ensures you can fine-tune your settings to achieve the perfect grind every time.

Let’s dive into the recommended settings based on the type of extraction you’re performing:

Here’s how you can interpret the setting position: the first number represents the total number of full rotations you need to make with the setting wheel. The second number, on the other hand, indicates the specific graduation mark where you should stop after completing the full turns. To illustrate, if the setting is 1.6, this means you should make one full rotation with the dial, and then halt at the 6th graduation mark.

• Espresso: graduation 0.3 to 1.0
• Moka Pot: graduation 1.0 to 1.7
• AeroPress: scale 9 to 25
• For Over: graduation 1.1 to 2.4
• French Press: graduation 1.9 to 2.5

Introducing the S2C600 Grinding Wheel

Meet the Timemore’s S2C600 millstone, a remarkable evolution of the C2C800. This innovative design was previously featured in the now-retired Timemore Chestnut X mill. The latest generation, the S2C600, now graces several mills in the Timemore lineup, including the Timemore S3, which I had the pleasure of testing a few months ago.

I was already quite taken with the Chestnut X‘s grinding wheel, which demonstrated a remarkable ability to produce an even grind. Now, Timemore has taken things up a notch, enhancing the grind consistency even further in this latest version.

Introducing the Recipient

From my personal experience, I’ve found that the quality of a mill’s container often mirrors the overall craftsmanship and design of the mill itself. Take the Kinu Phoenix for instance. Its plastic container is a tad too light, which unfortunately causes the mill to lose its balance when set on a work surface. Conversely, the C40 features a rim on the inside of its container. While this may seem like a minor detail, it actually leads to coffee retention when you’re transferring the grounds into the filter.

When it comes to the Timemore grinder, one of its standout features is the absence of an internal rim in the container, which eliminates the possibility of coffee getting stuck. Additionally, its substantial weight contributes to stabilizing the grinder by lowering its center of gravity. This is a unique feature not found in other models, such as those from 1Zpresso. Another noteworthy aspect is the screw-fastened design of the container, which enhances its durability.

Finally, a thoughtful detail to note is the addition of a rubber insert strategically positioned beneath the container. This not only safeguards your worktop but also speaks volumes about the meticulous attention given to the design.

Mastering Espresso Extraction with the Timemore C3 ESP Pro

While the Timemore S3 left me somewhat underwhelmed when it came to espresso, the Timemore C3 ESP Pro truly shines in this department. To illustrate, let’s take a look at an example from a La Pavoni machine.

First, I carefully measure out 16 g of coffee. To ensure a smooth grind and reduce static cling, I lightly mist the coffee with water using the RDT technique. Then, I proceed to grind the coffee using the reliable Timemore grinder.

So, here we have the outcome you’ve been waiting for.

While it’s certainly feasible to whip up espressos using this grinder, the Timemore C3 ESP Pro wouldn’t be my top pick for this particular brewing method. The primary reason lies in the size of the grindstones, 38 mm. This size significantly extends the grinding time when compared to mills fitted with larger grindstones, like the Kingrinder K6 or the pricier 1Zpresso J-Ultra.

Experience the magic of the Timemore C3 ESP Pro! It may take me just a tad over a minute to grind an espresso, but when I switch to the 47 or 48 mm wheels, I can cut that time down to approximately 40 seconds. It’s all about efficiency and flavor!

Experience the Superiority of the Timemore C3 ESP Pro on the Go

In my experience, Timemore truly shines when it comes to extractions that require a coarser grind. This is a stark contrast to competing brands like 1Zpresso, which, in my opinion, seems to have a particular knack for espresso.

Rest assured, the grind you’ll achieve with the Timemore is exceptionally consistent, a testament to the brand’s proficiency. Whether you’re brewing with a V60 or using my personal favorite, the travel-friendly Pipamoka (which incidentally, is why I purchased this grinder), I believe it strikes the perfect balance.

With the 38 mm grinding wheel, this type of extraction is a breeze. The mill operates swiftly, producing a robust grind without any hassle.

Let’s dive into the key steps for brewing a perfect cup of coffee using the Wacaco Pipamoka:

With these straightforward steps, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious cup of quality coffee in no time, even when you’re on the go.

Grind 14 g of coffee using the Timemore C3 ESP Pro: I recommend using the 1.9 setting. This means you’ll need to make one full turn of the setting wheel, then adjust it to position 9.

So, here we have the outcome:

A Step-by-Step Guide to Dismantling and Cleaning Your Timemore C3 ESP Pro

Putting the mill back together and giving it a good clean is incredibly straightforward. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process:

1. Unscrew the adjustment knob completely to release the grinding wheel.
2. Remove the central rod to gain access to the interior of the mill.
3. Clean the inside of the grinder with a brush or dry cloth to remove any coffee residue.
4. Reassemble the mill in the reverse order : replace the central spindle, reinstall the grinding wheel, then screw back the adjustment knob.

By following these steps, you can ensure the mill’s maintenance is both quick and effortless. This not only guarantees its longevity but also enhances its performance.

Wrapping It Up

I purchased the Chestnut C3 ESP Pro coffee grinder primarily for my travel needs. It’s a perfect companion for my compact travel coffee machine, the Wacaco Pipamoka. What really impressed me about this grinder were its compact size, affordable price, excellent build quality, and consistent grind.

I believe it’s especially well-suited for filter coffee, thanks to its compact grinding wheel. However, don’t let its size fool you! It’s also quite proficient at whipping up espressos, albeit with a slightly longer grinding time.

When it comes to comparing Timemore mills, I have a distinct preference for the C3 ESP Pro over the S3. While the S3 may be more robust and features a larger grinding wheel, it falls short when it comes to making espressos, a task at which the C3 ESP Pro excels. If you’re on the hunt for a grinder that’s even more compact, I invite you to read my review of the Wacaco Exagrinder, a model designed specifically with this in mind.

With that in mind, I’m delighted to award it a 5-star rating.

L’article A Detailed Review of the Timemore C3 ESP Pro’s Unique Features est apparu en premier sur CoffeeGeek.

The creation of this retractable crank handle is a fascinating tale of resilience and innovation. It all began when a rival German brand sought to hinder 1Zpresso’s European sales by filing a lawsuit over the handle’s design. Consequently, 1Zpresso had to adapt and redesign the crank handle on several of its grinders, including the J-Max. This led to the birth of the J-Ultra, a grinder that continues to be a popular choice in Europe. But that’s not all, 1Zpresso boasts a wide range of coffee grinders, each with its unique features. You can explore them all here.

I’ve recently acquired the J-Ultra, and I’m excited to share it with you.

Discovering the Magic Inside the 1Zpresso J-Ultra Box

Our coffee grinder includes a variety of handy accessories:

• Carrying case
• Brush for cleaning the mill
• Small bellows
• Silicone strap, to be fitted on the mill according to your choice
• Card with QR code, redirecting to instructions for use

Discover top-notch accessories.

Exploring the Design of the 1Zpresso J-Ultra

The moment you lay your hands on the J-Ultra, you’re instantly enveloped by a feeling of superior quality. To be frank, it’s immediately clear that it’s not playing in the same field as the Kingrinder I reviewed earlier. But before we delve into the specifics of each component, let’s start with my overall impression.

The 1Zpresso boasts a robust weight, ensuring stability during use. Its magnetic container is securely fastened with an array of magnets, providing a firm hold. The grinder is well balanced, designed with a low center of gravity to prevent any accidental toppling. The adjustment knob is a joy to use, offering a satisfying resistance with each click. With its ultra-fine settings of 8 µm, the 1Zpresso is a coffee grinder specifically tailored for espresso.

Exploring the Key Features of Your Coffee Grinder

Let’s dive into the key features of the 1Zpresso J-Ultra manual coffee grinder:

• Precise adjustment: 8 microns per click.
• Wheels: 48 mm wheels, optimized for espresso.
• Materials: Wood, polycarbonate, silicone, stainless steel, aluminum alloy.
• Ergonomic design: rounded body for a comfortable grip.
• Magnetic container: Secure attachment and easy removal.
• Weight and dimensions: 700g, 19 x 18.5 x 5.5 cm, 35-40g capacity.
• Accessories: Cleaning brush, blower, carrying case.
• Warranty: One year, defects in materials and workmanship.

Discover the J-Ultra Crank Handle

If you’re a keen follower of coffee industry updates, you might be aware of the recent controversy involving 1Zpresso. This company found itself in hot water with a competing German manufacturer who lodged a complaint against them. The bone of contention? A crank handle design that was strikingly similar to their own. Rising to the challenge, 1Zpresso swiftly redesigned their crank handle, not only changing its shape but also making it retractable. Despite these changes, some 1Zpresso products, like the J-Max, had to be pulled off the shelves due to the crank handle issue.

One unique feature of the J-Ultra is its integrated crank handle, which is cleverly built into the cap – one of the few plastic components of the mill. This foldable design is a first for me from 1Zpresso, and it certainly lends a robust feel to the mill. However, I must admit, I find it not as user-friendly as the Timemore system. It’s possible that 1Zpresso couldn’t incorporate the Timemore system due to patent restrictions or lack of agreements. The ability to retract the crank is a significant plus, as it allows the mill to be more compact and maintain better balance.

Experience a new level of comfort with the redesigned crank handle, meticulously crafted to provide an exceptional grip. Its broad and ergonomic design ensures a smooth coffee grinding experience. While earlier 1Zpresso models echoed the design of the El Comandante C40 crank handle, the latest design draws inspiration from theBPlus Apollo.

Exploring the Design of the J-Ultra Coffee Grinder

1Zpresso coffee grinders are delightfully user-friendly. The J-Ultra model gives me the same satisfying experience as the other models I’ve tested, such as the JE-Plus and J-Max. The tactile texture around the mill ensures a superb grip, making additional silicone straps for a better hold unnecessary, unlike with the BPlus’ Apollo model.

The external adjustment knob is subtly prominent, offering a firm hold that ensures the mill stays securely in your grasp. This is a thoughtful enhancement from the Timemore Chestnut X, where I previously observed this issue.

Exploring the Magnetic Container of the 1Zpresso J-Ultra

The design of the magnetic container for collecting ground coffee is truly ingenious. It’s equipped with a multitude of magnets that firmly secure it to the grinder, ensuring it stays put even during vigorous grinding. Its substantial weight contributes to the overall stability of the grinder, maintaining balance even when the crank is fully extended. This is a noteworthy feature, especially considering the tilting issues I’ve noticed with the Timemore Chestnut X when the crank isn’t retracted. Additionally, the container is thoughtfully fitted with a rubber pad at the bottom, providing a safeguard against any potential damage to your countertop.

The manufacturer has thoughtfully designed the container with a subtle incline, extending from the base to the magnets, to ensure no ground coffee gets left behind. This clever design feature sets it apart from other manufacturers. It effectively eliminates the issue of coffee getting stuck while being transferred into the filter holder, a common problem I’ve noticed with models like the C40 and Kinu.

One aspect of this container that I truly admired is the magnetic attachment feature. The clever addition of a recess in its design ensures that the container stays firmly in place, even when pressure is applied at an angle while the mill is operating. This thoughtful design significantly reduces the chances of the container accidentally detaching under such conditions.

Exploring the Adjustment Wheel

Perched atop the grinder, you’ll find the adjustment knob, conveniently located on the exterior. This knob allows for a wheel spacing of 8 µm per click, a level of precision that is a perfect match for espresso preparation, promising an exceptional degree of finesse. Unlike other grinders, particularly those with bottom adjustments, this grinder offers unparalleled precision. Sometimes, the perfect cup of coffee requires a setting that falls between two clicks, a feat not achievable with less precise grinders.

Exploring the Intricacies of the Grinding Wheel

Let’s talk about the J-Ultra’s grindstone. It boasts a 48 mm diameter, specifically crafted for espresso. I’ll delve deeper into this shortly, but rest assured, it’s a fact.

When you’re on the hunt for a coffee grinder specifically designed for espresso, there are three key factors you should keep in mind:

• Fine adjustment: the J-Ultra’s precision of 8 µm per click enables very fine adjustment, essential for espresso.
• Grinding wheel size: Larger grinding wheels (47-48 mm) reduce grinding time. For example, with smaller grindstones (38-40 mm), it takes around 1 minute 30 to grind by hand. With 47-48 mm wheels, the grinding time for 16 g of coffee is around 40 seconds.
• Grindstones designed for espresso: The quality of the grind depends on its regularity. A wide disparity in the size of the ground fragments adversely affects the taste of the coffee. Some grindstones are optimized for the fine, even grind essential for espresso. Other grinders can be versatile, offering a grind that’s regular enough for both pour-over and espresso, but without reaching the quality of dedicated grinders.

These elements play a pivotal role in crafting a top-notch espresso.

Meet the 1Zpresso J-Ultra: Your Perfect Partner for an Exquisite Espresso Experience

It was a tough call deciding whether to use my La Pavoni or my Lelit Mara X to demonstrate an espresso made with the 1Zpresso J-Ultra. In the end, I opted for my Lelit Mara X. It’s been a while since I’ve showcased it, plus it’s simpler to photograph the extraction process with it compared to my La Pavoni. To keep our focus on the grinder’s operation and handling, I won’t delve into the intricacies of espresso making this time around. Rest assured, I’ve explored these topics in depth in previous articles.

Today, I’m spicing things up a bit with my espresso preparation. Instead of sticking to my usual routine, I’ll be grinding 18g of coffee. Why, you ask? Well, I’m in the mood to tweak my standard water-to-coffee ratio for a slightly more concentrated brew. Let’s see how this goes!

With the help of my trusty scale, I carefully measure out 18g of coffee. To mitigate the static electricity that often arises during the grinding process, I add a smattering of water drops. This static electricity is often the culprit behind those pesky lumps and the annoying coffee retention in the grinder.

Next, I carefully move the coffee beans into the welcoming embrace of the grinder for their transformation. The grinder’s opening is generously wide, ensuring a spill-free transfer of the beans.

Exploring the Retention Capacity of the 1Zpresso J-Ultra

In order to assess the retention capacity of this coffee grinder, I embarked on a simple experiment. I started by weighing the coffee beans before grinding them. After grinding, I weighed the coffee once more, this time in the filter holder. The results were quite revealing, as depicted in the accompanying photos. This grinder’s retention is remarkably minimal, which is a great feature.

Based on my personal experience, I’ve discovered that retention primarily happens in two key areas of a hand mill:

1. At the grinding wheel outlet: This retention can easily be reduced using the RDT(Ross Droplet Technique).
2. In the container, because of its shape or the materials used. I’ve used top-of-the-range grinders where the manufacturer had put a rim inside the container. This rim, designed to hold the container’s fastening system, blocked coffee every time it was poured into the filter.

Rest easy with the 1Zpresso J-Ultra. The thoughtful design features a gentle slope instead of a rim, ensuring no coffee gets trapped. Plus, the paint utilized is of the finest quality, guaranteeing zero retention.

It’s important to note that the use of the RTD technique significantly decreases retention. Additionally, you might observe a higher retention during the initial use. This is because the mill may be charged with static electricity, a result of the plastics used during its transportation and manufacturing process.

Once your coffee is finely ground and neatly poured into the filter holder, it’s time to take steps to prevent channeling. To do this, I recommend using a WDT to evenly distribute the coffee. Next, you’ll want to tamp it down firmly using a guide tamper. Lastly, don’t forget to add a puckscreen for the best results.

I’m thrilled to share that my coffee extraction process took a mere 25 seconds, operating at a pressure of 9 bar. Thanks to the flow control feature of my trusty Lelit Mara X, I was able to achieve a delightful 40 ml of coffee in my cup. Now, let’s take a visual journey through the different stages of the extraction process with the images provided below.

So, without further ado, let’s unveil the final result:

The image captured beautifully showcases the delightful coffee I brewed using the 1Zpresso J-Ultra coffee grinder and my trusty Lelit Mara X V2. To give you a vivid idea of my sensory experience, I’ve included a flavor wheel below. It visually represents the unique mouthfeel I experienced while savoring this particular brew.

• Country of origin: Honduras Uluma
• Type of coffee: Arabica – Typica / Pacas
• Altitude: 1200 – 1700m
• SCA score: 84/100
• Roaster’s description: A complex, highly aromatic coffee with bright, lively acidity and a smooth, velvety body.

Is it Possible to Brew a V60 Using a 1Zpresso J-Ultra?

Absolutely, you can certainly use a coffee grinder that’s primarily designed for espresso to prepare your V60. However, as highlighted in the grindstones section of this article, certain grindstones are specifically engineered to work more efficiently with particular grind sizes. Consequently, some grindstones might outperform the 1Zpresso J-Ultra when it comes to pour-over / V60. I experimented with the same coffee I typically use for espresso, but this time in a V60. Although the roast was slightly on the darker side for a V60, which usually favors very light roasts, the coffee turned out to be truly delightful.

• Country of origin: Honduras Uluma
• Type of coffee: Arabica – Typica / Pacas
• Altitude: 1200 – 1700m
• SCA score: 84/100
• Roaster’s description: A complex, highly aromatic coffee with bright, lively acidity and a smooth, velvety body.

Unraveling the Steps to Disassemble Your 1Zpresso J-Ultra

When it comes to disassembling your 1Zpresso J-Ultra, the process is quite straightforward. Start by gently unscrewing the nut that secures the central axle. You can easily do this with your fingers. Once that’s done, proceed to remove the grinding wheel. Now, with the help of the brush and pump that came with your grinder, you’re all set to clean it thoroughly. It’s as simple as that!

Here’s a snapshot showcasing the state of the grindstones after brewing several cups of coffee without giving them a proper clean.

Did you know? You can even remove the fixed grinding wheel to clean your mill more meticulously. It’s all about keeping things sparkling clean!

Final Thoughts: Does the 1Zpresso J-Ultra Reign Supreme as the Best Espresso Grinder?

Meet the J-Ultra, a premium coffee grinder that stands out for its exceptional build quality and the superior cup results it delivers. To be honest, it’s hard to find any shortcomings with this grinder. It boasts a plethora of benefits such as a stylish design, an excellent grip, and highly precise adjustment options with numerous notches. Plus, if needed, you have the option to dismantle and align the grinding wheels – a feature that’s quite rare. To top it all off, it comes complete with a carrying case and additional accessories.

When compared to the other coffee grinders featured on our site, such as the Kingrinder, El Comandante C40, Timemore S3, and the Apollo from BPlus, the 1Zpresso J-Ultra stands out as the top choice for espresso. While the quality of the brew is comparable to that of the Apollo or VS3 (which also have specific espresso grinders), the J-Ultra’s handling is far superior. The El Comandante…

Wrapping things up, if your budget is flexible and your focus is primarily on espresso extraction, then the 1Zpresso J-Ultra is the perfect match for you. However, if you’re working with a tighter budget and also have a penchant for pour-over coffee, the Kingrinder makes a great alternative.

After careful consideration, I’ve awarded the 1Zpresso J-Ultra a perfect score of 5 out of 5.

L’article CoffeeGeek’s test of the 1Zpresso J-Ultra est apparu en premier sur CoffeeGeek.

Having explored a vast array of coffee grinders, some of which I’ve had the pleasure of featuring in my previous articles, I’m excited to revisit and refresh my thoughts on the BPlus Apollo today.

Bplus: The Architect Behind the Majestic Apollo

Meet the Apollo coffee grinder, a brainchild of Arthur, the founder of the BPlus company. Hailing from Taiwan, Arthur is not just a businessman, but a coffee aficionado, roaster, and inventor. His company has been a breeding ground for several innovative projects, many of which are directly associated with La Pavoni machines – a brand he proudly represents in Asia.

During one of his journeys, he found inspiration in a column from a Roman temple, which sparked the idea for his mill. I remember the moment I saw the pictures on social media, I was instantly smitten with this mill. Consequently, when it became available, I didn’t hesitate to purchase it. I was eager to see how it would stack up against the Kinu M47 Classic, which I was fortunate to own at the time.

Little did I realize when I penned my comparative analysis of the Kinu M47 Classic and the BPlus Apollo, it would create quite a buzz online. It seems that Kinu has a dedicated group of enthusiasts who were quick to assert that BPlus had simply replicated the Kinu M47. However, this was far from the truth. My article, through its detailed comparison of the two grinders, inadvertently debunked this myth.

Discover the Distinctive Elegance of the Apollo Coffee Grinder

Unlike our competitors such as Timemore, 1Zpresso, Kingrinder and others, who manufacture grinders composed of multiple components that assemble together, the Apollo grinder is uniquely crafted from the ground up using a CNC machine. This results in a product that, when held, feels impressively heavy and robust. I’ve been a proud owner of the Apollo coffee grinder for several years now and its charm never ceases to amaze me.

I personally own the black version of this model. However, you’ll be delighted to know that there are several other vibrant colors available to choose from.

However, let’s return to the distinctive features that set this mill apart for me. Interestingly, when it’s not in use, it serves as a charming piece of decor.

Exploring the Crank Handle

This grinder’s crank doesn’t retract, but it does feature a large, metallic knob that provides an excellent grip. I want to emphasize this aspect as I’ve had the opportunity to test MHW‘s 3Bomber, Kinu, and the Timemore S3 coffee grinders, all of which have significantly smaller crank handles. From my personal experience, I find that a larger handle offers a more comfortable grip.

The elegant “La Pavoni” laser engraving beautifully signifies the enduring connection between BPlus and La Pavoni.

Exploring the Adjustment Wheel

Discover the magic of the adjustment knob nestled at the apex of the mill, where the crank cozily connects to the axle. This axle is the life force that sets the grinding wheels in motion. The knob is your key to precision, enabling you to fine-tune the grind to your exact preference. Rest assured, you’ll never find yourself stuck between two clicks, searching for that elusive perfect setting.

Indeed, it’s interesting to note that most high-end coffee grinders, barring a few exceptions like the Timemore S3, provide an adequate level of fine-tuning for perfect espresso extraction. Factors like the design of the grinding wheels also play a significant role in determining the quality of the grind.

Conversely, grinders that feature a lower setting provide less precision in their adjustments, resulting in a broader gap between the grinding wheels with each click. To illustrate, during my evaluation of the El Commandante C40, I found its performance for espresso extraction somewhat lacking. Interestingly, I often found the perfect setting to be somewhere in between each click.

In essence, if you’re looking for a slow, coarse-grind extraction, you’ll find bottom-adjusting grinders to be your best bet. On the other hand, if you’re aiming for an espresso-type extraction, then top-adjusting grinders would be the ideal choice for you.

Unveiling the Charm of Cork

Unlike the majority of coffee grinders available today, which typically feature a removable handle that’s part of the cap, the Apollo grinder stands out with its non-detachable handle. It also comes with a silicone cap that needs to be fitted prior to use.

While it’s entirely possible to use the grinder without the cap, you might find that tiny fragments of coffee beans could scatter. For me, I tend to lean towards using the stopper provided by BPlus, despite the fact that it doesn’t quite match the aesthetic of the coffee grinder.

Exploring the Structure of the Apollo Coffee Grinder

As previously highlighted in the introduction of this article, the design of the mill draws significant inspiration from a column found in a Roman temple. In essence, the mill beautifully encapsulates the spirit of Italy, the birthplace of espresso and coffee.

I’m not entirely sure about the exact cost involved in manufacturing each of these mills, but I do know that the process is quite time-consuming, especially since each piece is meticulously carved from the ground by a CNC machine. I had a conversation with Arthur a while back and got some insight into this. Surprisingly, he sells the Apollo virtually at its production cost. This implies that his motivation to keep producing this coffee grinder is driven more by his passion than by the prospect of profit. This could explain why his coffee grinders are frequently out of stock.

Let’s circle back to our main discussion. The unique design of the grinder, which tapers to a narrower top and expands into a funnel at the bottom, offers two significant benefits. The funnel design not only facilitates the pouring of coffee into the grinder but also ensures that the ground coffee doesn’t spill out during use.

Exploring the Apollo Grinding Wheel

The grinding wheel of the Apollo is a product of the renowned Italian manufacturer, Itamil. This is the very same grinding wheel that you’ll find in the Kinu and certain 1Zpresso machines, and possibly in other mill brands as well. This grindstone is known for delivering exceptional results when it comes to espresso extractions. With a diameter of 47 mm, it’s crafted from an incredibly durable alloy, ensuring its longevity. I’ve been using this grinder since mid-2018 and have processed kilograms of coffee without noticing any signs of wear. Plus, the grinder’s design allows for easy disassembly, making it a breeze to replace the grinding wheels if the need arises.

Meet the Recipient

The container is meticulously crafted from a solid block, giving it a substantial weight. Its low center of gravity and broad base ensure that the mill maintains stability on your workspace.

The interior of the container is perfectly smooth, devoid of any rims that could potentially trap coffee grounds, a feature I’ve noticed in other coffee grinders. The container’s 58 mm width is a direct match for most filters, adhering to the standard professional format. It’s also designed to screw onto the base. The threading is much more refined than what you’d find on the Kingrinder, for instance. Initially, I was concerned about damaging the thread. However, having owned and frequently used this mill since 2018, I can confidently say it’s held up beautifully without any issues.

A layer of rubber is thoughtfully placed beneath the container to ensure your worktop remains unscathed.

Mastering Espresso Extraction with the Apollo from BPlus and La Pavoni

Mastering the art of brewing espresso with a La Pavoni has been thoroughly discussed in our previous article. As such, we’ll bypass some steps in this guide to focus primarily on the intricacies of the coffee grinder.

Let’s embark on the journey of making the perfect cup of coffee! The initial step involves measuring the coffee accurately. Once done, you’ll need to sprinkle a few droplets of water onto the beans before you grind them. This method is known as the RDT technique. It’s a clever trick that reduces static electricity, a key contributor to retention, ensuring you get the most out of your coffee beans.

Effortlessly, I pour the coffee beans into the grinder. The funnel, a cleverly designed feature of the grinder, ensures that every single bean is guided in smoothly, with none straying off course.

Remember to pop on the silicone stopper. While it’s not a must, it’s a handy little addition that helps to keep those coffee beans in check during the grinding process.

Next, I proceed to grind the coffee. Among the numerous coffee grinders I’ve experimented with, this one stands out as one of the quickest in grinding an equivalent quantity of coffee. This rapidity produces a noticeable torque during the grinding process. BPlus has thoughtfully provided rubber straps that can be wrapped around the grinder for enhanced grip. These bands certainly make the grinder more manageable, but they do somewhat disrupt the aesthetic appeal of Apollo’s design.

In just a matter of moments, I’ve completed the task of grinding my coffee. I then carefully pour it into the filter holder of my trusty La Pavoni. To distribute the coffee evenly, I use my handy WDT. This is a crucial step in the espresso-making process as it helps to prevent the occurrence of channeling.

Understanding Coffee Retention in the Apollo Grinder

Now that we’ve enjoyed our coffee and I’ve successfully set up the puckscreen, it’s the perfect time to delve into the Apollo‘s retention capabilities. You’ll be pleasantly surprised to find out that it’s remarkably low.

Let’s begin with the container. Once you’ve poured the coffee into the filter pan, you’ll notice that there’s not a trace of coffee left behind, except for a fine dusting of powder. This is completely normal and nothing to worry about.

Now, let’s turn our attention to the grinding wheel outlets. Interestingly, they don’t seem to retain a noteworthy amount of coffee.

The minimal retention feature of the Apollo coffee grinder is truly impressive. It’s worth noting that many hand grinders boast low coffee retention, especially at the grindstone outlet. However, the real difference often lies in the design of the container. Certain brands have chosen components or shapes that inadvertently lead to coffee retention. A prime example of this is Kinu. When I had one of their grinders (though this may have changed since), it featured a rim on the inside of the container which inevitably resulted in some coffee retention.

Crafting My Espresso with the BPlus Apollo Grinder

Allow me to present the exquisite espresso I’ve crafted. The coffee was finely ground using the Apollo, and then meticulously extracted with my trusty La Pavoni.

Guidelines on Disassembling Your Apollo Mill

Unlike many manual coffee grinders available out there, the Apollo stands out with its design that prioritizes easy disassembly and cleaning. So, let’s embark on a journey to disassemble this grinder together, shall we?

Let’s get started! First off, it’s a good idea to take note of your mill’s current settings. Once you’ve done that, go ahead and unscrew the bolt that’s securing the crank in place, then carefully remove it.

Next, gently take off the metal adjustment component.

Let’s get started on how to unscrew the nut that holds the setting digits. First, gently take off the container. Now, using your fingers, secure the grinding wheel in place. Once that’s done, you can go ahead and remove the nut. Easy, right?

Let’s carefully take off the grinding wheel and the central axle.

Let’s delve into all the parts you can disassemble on the Apollo without the need for any tools. Isn’t that convenient?

Let’s get started on how to dismantle the fixed section of your grinding wheel. It’s a simple process, really. All you need to do is unscrew a pair of screws. And guess what? You’ll only need an Allen key to do this. Easy, right?

After carefully removing the stationary component of the grinding wheel, we now have effortless access to the mill’s interior. This allows us to clean it thoroughly and efficiently.

Let’s take a closer look at the Apollo spacecraft, meticulously deconstructed for your viewing pleasure.

Wrapping It Up

In conclusion, amidst the influx of coffee grinders flooding the market, one might wonder, does the Apollo still hold its ground? From my perspective, it absolutely does. The Apollo grinder has not only undergone several transformations since I first acquired it, but it’s also the creation of a dedicated artisan who prioritizes excellence over mass production. Granted, there are areas where the Apollo could use some enhancements, like the stopper, which unlike its rivals, isn’t attached to the crank. However, when it’s not grinding away, the Apollo’s stylish design makes it a true conversation starter.

As of this moment, I’ve had the pleasure of owning approximately ten unique manual coffee grinders. However, I’ve parted ways with all of them, save for one – the remarkable Apollo.

Given that this is a trial piece, I find it fitting to award it a commendable score of 4.5 out of 5.

L’article Focus on the BPlus Apollo coffee grinder est apparu en premier sur CoffeeGeek.