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FrancisFrancis! X1 Espresso Machine Image

FrancisFrancis! X1 Espresso Machine

Overall Rating: 4/5 stars See 10 reviews  |  Write a review at Epinions.com
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Consumer Review

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Great Espresso from a Fab Looking Machine

by  Eutek,   Jan 31, 2007

Pros:  Great styling, easy to use, well constructed

Cons:  Expensive

The Bottom Line:  The X-1 looks fabulous, is easy to use and produces wonderful espresso/cappuccino/latté. It might be a bit dear, but you only live once!

Overall Rating: 4/5 stars
 

Author's Review

like coffee, especially espresso. For a time I was happy with what I would get from the local coffee houses, however a trip to Italy a few years ago changed me. I finally understood what "real" espresso was all about.

Returning from Italy a changed man, I set out to recreate that coffee experience. I experimented in the past with those two-part contraptions that you put on the stove, as well as "Mr. Happy Shopper" type espresso machines, but the end product was nowhere near as good as what I tasted in Italy. I realised that I would have to up the ante.

Thanks to a timely bonus from my employer, I was finally able to get the Francis! Francis! X-1 - in red, of course. I paid about $540 for it (it was purchased in London - things are a bit more expensive here). I have to admit that what initially attracted me to this model was the good looks. The X-1 is a great looking, retro style machine. I chose the bright red because it goes well with our kitchen.

However, as in real life, looks are not everything. I did copious research, and for my taste the X-1 blended the aesthetic and functionality in a package to my liking. Granted, it comes at a price - it is not cheap - but you only live once!

My review is based on using the X-1 over a few days. If these first days are anything to go by, I am very, very satisfied.

Having upgraded from entry-level machines, the first thing I noticed was that the X-1 is heavy. I had to carry this thing home on the Tube during rush hour. However, that weight is reassuring - it is definitely not your entry-level espresso/cappuccino machine!

Mine was well packed. I ended up saving the packaging for when we move. (note - there is a cardboard support that needs to be used when you transport the X-1).

The instructions are very simple and easy to follow. In no time I had the X-1 unpacked and installed. The reservoir holds quite a bit of water. I can see where some users would get frustrated with the placement of the tank, however for me it really is not an issue - as I have access to the back of the machine.

I flushed the X-1 for a minute and a half as recommended, packed the filter with some pre-ground espresso, and the subsequent espresso that it produced was very good. Much better than the entry-level machines that I used in the past, and much better than the burned, bitter stuff that Starbucks serves.

I always had trouble getting decent foam when I used the cheap cappuccino makers, however it could not have been easier with the X-1. In no time at all I had nice frothy, creamy foam.

Trying my hand at cappuccino and lattés also gave excellent results - and I am just a novice!

Cleaning the unit is simple enough, but the drawer and tray cover seem a bit flimsy. In any event, this machine is not intended for industrial use, so I think it will be fine.

I have not yet tried the Illy pods that came with the X-1, but I do not foresee myself using this type of product too often.




 

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Francis Francis! X1 Ground Coffee Machine Black

Francis Francis! X1 Ground Coffee Machine Black

In stock soon. Order now to get in line. First come, first served. (Stock info not available)
, Weight: 20 lbs., Manufacturer: Euro Food Brands Ltd
amazon.co.uk
Featured Store 3.5/5.0 store rating
in the UK
 
(Free P & P)
Francis Francis X1 espresso coffee machine- Black or Blue

Francis Francis X1 espresso coffee machine- Black or Blue

New (In stock)
The Francis Francis X1 The Francis Francis X1 was Luca Trazzi's first espresso coffee machine and widely admired not only for its looks but as a fanta...
GoCoffee
Featured Store
0500 601 560
in the UK
 
(Free P & P)
at GoCoffee
FRANCIS FRANCIS X1/RED

FRANCIS FRANCIS X1/ RED

New  Ships in 2 - 5 days (In stock)
An iconic style statement for your kitchen - this Francis Francis X1 Espresso machine makes beautiful coffee to match it's stunning appearance
COMET
Featured Store 4.0/5.0 store rating Trusted Store
in the UK
 
(Free P & P)
at COMET
 

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About the Author

Eutek
a member of Epinions.com
Reviews Written:  52
Location:  NY-Dublin-London-Bucharest
 
 

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