Ok. So I've owned my Gaggia Classic for close to 20 years and today it has given up the ghost. The Solenoid Valve with the coil has finally stopped working. When I took the machine apart I could not believe how well this machine is built. Taking apart the heating section from the boiler I saw what my problem was as soon as I opened it up. I had an unbelievable amount of minerals and scaling on the inside. If I didn't know any better I would think that the machine would have come with the built in rocks, but it doesn't of course:) I just can't believe how long the machine has lasted.
Negative Product Points
Not having my Gaggia Classic.
Detailed Commentary
A well built machine. It has withstood the test of time and different water conditions here in the big apple. I think that from now on I will be putting my water through a Brita first to help remove so of the deposits that might collect in the machine. I agree with most of the folks here that you should by a decent grinder like the Rocky. It produces great shots and consistent taste. The only thing that I do wish is that the frother would produce finer bubbles. I am going to buy another one next week based on the previous experience I have had with this unit. I will be sorry to see it go, but happy to be getting another one.
Buying Experience
I think that $500 was a fair price for the machine at that time considering the amount of use that I have received from it.
