I've been slowly restoring this machine for the past year and a half or so. It's a rare volumetric GS2 that uses the early LInea dosing system. I'm told that it was produced along side the La Marzocco "SMAL" series of machines about 20-something years ago. It has the optional larger steam boiler.
It was in working condition when I got it, and based on the date stamps on the machine's flow meters and pressure gauge, I'd say it got a major service around '98 or '99. Though it worked just fine it was filthy. It was possibly the most dirty machine I've ever seen that was up & running in a cafe.
I disassembled the machine right down to its frame, which i then stripped and repainted with a special paint that is super hard and rust inhibiting. This stuff even keeps my Fiats from rusting! I don't even want to guess how many hours and parts I have into this machine's restoration, and I'm not even done with it yet.
Assuming that I loaded the pics correctly, you'll see that the body panels of the machine make it look like it might belong to "The World's Most Interesting Man". I dig it's vintage style, but I'm not thrilled with it's color palate. I know that glass side panels exist, but I'm guessing that they're expensive as hell.
I'm looking for ideas for alternate body panels. Would it be a sin for me to paint the body panels for this machine and maybe chrome the copper panel? My heart and mind say don't do it, but my eyes are begging me to do something.
Your thoughts?
You need to be a member of Barista Exchange to add comments!
Replies