Review Of The Best Vintage Coffee Grinder of 2022 with Buying Guide - Experts' Picks

by Jeanette Kierstead

If you miss the days of coffee beans ground by hand and kettles of water boiled on an open flame, you're a person after my own heart. The space-age style grinders that look like they could shoot to the moon on their own power are great for contemporary homes with modern equipment.

There's nothing wrong with electric grinders and coffee makers with digital conveniences, but coffee should be savored before the start to a busy day full of technology, buzzing phones and the bing of invading emails. While this is just my preference, vintage-style manual grinders are terrific for slowing yourself down and enjoying the coffee process. It's a reminder of a lifestyle that wasn't as hectic.

Top Vintage Coffee Grinder of 2022 Experts Picks by Editors

Vintage Coffee Grinder: the Definition

A vintage coffee grinder is a coffee grinder that is either old or designed to resemble an older style of grinder. Vintage grinders can be either manual or electric, and they come in a variety of styles and sizes. Whether you're looking for a decorative conversation piece or a functional appliance, there's a vintage coffee grinder to suit your needs.

Manual Vintage Coffee Grinders

Photo of a Manual Vintage Coffee Grinder
Photo of a Manual Vintage Coffee Grinder

Manual vintage coffee grinders are designed to be operated by hand, and they typically have a nostalgic design that evokes earlier eras. These grinders can be used to Grind coffee beans by hand, and they offer a more intimate and hands-on experience than electric models. Manual grinders are often smaller than electric ones, making them more portable and easier to store.

Electric Vintage Coffee Grinders

Photo of a Electric Vintage Coffee Grinder
Photo of a Electric Vintage Coffee Grinder

Electric vintage coffee grinders are designed to be operated with an electric power source, and they offer a more convenient grinding experience than manual models. These grinders typically have a sleek and modern design, and they can be used to Grind coffee beans quickly and easily. Electric grinders are often larger than manual ones, making them less portable but easier to use.

Come in a Variety of Styles, Including Antique, Retro, and Contemporary

Vintage coffee grinders come in a variety of styles, including antique, retro, and contemporary. Antique grinders are true vintage pieces that are at least 20 years old. These grinders are often made of cast iron or wood, and they may feature intricate designs and detailed craftsmanship. Retro grinders are vintage-inspired pieces that are less than 20 years old. These grinders often have a fun and funky design, and they may be made of materials like plastic or aluminum. Contemporary grinders are modern pieces that incorporate vintage elements into their design. These grinders may have a sleek and modern look, but they may also feature vintage-style details like exposed gears or wood panels.

Why Buying a Vintage Coffee Grinder as Opposed to a Modern One ?

Some coffee aficionados insist that the best way to make a perfect cup of coffee is to grind the beans yourself, using a vintage coffee grinder. Vintage coffee grinders offer many advantages over their modern counterparts. For one, vintage coffee grinders are often made with higher quality materials than modern ones. They also tend to be more durable, meaning they will last longer. Additionally, vintage coffee grinders often have more precise grinding mechanisms, resulting in a more consistent grind. Finally, many people simply prefer the look and feel of a vintage coffee grinder to a modern one.

If you're serious about making the perfect cup of coffee, a vintage coffee grinder is definitely worth considering. However, be sure to do your research before purchasing one, as there are many counterfeit and low-quality grinders on the market. With a little effort, you can find a genuine vintage coffee grinder that will offer years of enjoyable use.

Top 6 Best Vintage Coffee Grinder Reviews 2022

Top 6 Best Vintage Coffee Grinder Reviews 2022
Top 6 Best Vintage Coffee Grinder Reviews 2022

Zassenhaus Santiago Coffee Mill Grinder Beech Wood, 5.5 x 3.5 x 7.8, Natural varnish - Link

Zassenhaus - 40098 Zassenhaus Santiago Coffee Mill Grinder Beech Wood, 5.5 x 3.5 x 7.8, Natural varnish
Zassenhaus - 40098 Zassenhaus Santiago Coffee Mill Grinder Beech Wood, 5.5 x 3.5 x 7.8, Natural varnish

The Santiago Coffee Mill Grinder from Zassenhaus is the perfect way to grind your coffee beans, whether you're using an espresso machine, drip coffee maker, or French press. The classic design and natural beech wood construction give this grinder a vintage feel that will complement any kitchen décor. The conical burr grinding mechanism produces a consistent grind, while the adjustable grind setting lets you choose how fine or coarse you want your coffee grounds to be. The durable construction and simple operation make the Santiago a great choice for both beginner and experienced coffee lovers alike.

Pros:

The Zassenhaus is a high quality grinder that will last for many years.

It produces consistent grinds, whether you're looking for a coarse or fine grind.

The Santiago is made of beech wood, which gives it a beautiful natural finish.

It's also compact and easy to store away when not in use.

Cons:

The price tag on the Zassenhaus can be a bit off-putting for some people.

The natural finish of the wood may not be to everyone's taste.

You will need to put in a bit of elbow grease to get the best results from this grinder - it's not entirely effortless.

Our Conclusion

It's a high quality product that is built to last, but it is on the pricier side and does require a bit of effort to use effectively. Whether or not it's the right grinder for you will depend on your personal preferences and budget.

Zassenhaus Brasilia Coffee Mill, Beechwood Manual Coffee Bean Grinder, Traditional Hand Crank Coffee Mill - Link

Zassenhaus Brasilia Coffee Mill, Beechwood Manual Coffee Bean Grinder, Traditional Hand Crank Coffee Mill (Mahogany)
Zassenhaus Brasilia Coffee Mill, Beechwood Manual Coffee Bean Grinder, Traditional Hand Crank Coffee Mill (Mahogany)

This vintage coffee grinder is a beautiful and functional addition to any kitchen. The Zassenhaus Brasilia Coffee Mill is made of beechwood, with a traditional hand crank design. It features adjustable grind settings, so you can get the perfect grind for your coffee beans. This coffee mill also has a built-in drawer, which catches the grounds and prevents them from making a mess on your countertop. The Zassenhaus Coffee Grinder is a must-have for any coffee lover.

This traditional hand-crank coffee mill has both pros and cons that should be taken into account before making a purchase.

Pros:

On the plus side, the Zassenhaus Brasilia Coffee Mill is made of high-quality materials, including beechwood construction and a ceramic grinding mechanism. This results in a durable and long-lasting product that will stand up to repeated use. The grind size is also adjustable, so you can customize your grind according to your preferences.

Cons:

The Zassenhaus Brasilia Coffee Grinder is more expensive than some other coffee grinders on the market. Additionally, the hand-crank design means that it takes a bit more effort to use than electric models.

Our Conclusion

Overall, the Zassenhaus Brasilia Coffee Mill is a high-quality coffee grinder that will suit the needs of many coffee drinkers. However, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a purchase to ensure that it is the right product for you.

Hario Olivewood Manual Coffee Grinder, Brown - Link

Hario Olivewood Manual Coffee Grinder, Brown
Hario Olivewood Manual Coffee Grinder, Brown

The Hario Olivewood Manual Coffee Grinder is a beautiful vintage coffee grinder that would look great in any kitchen. It's made of solid olive wood and has a classic design that will never go out of style. The grinder is easy to use and can be adjusted to grind your coffee beans to the perfect consistency. It's also very easy to clean, so you'll always have fresh-tasting coffee. This grinder makes a great gift for any coffee lover in your life.

There are a few pros and cons associated with this particular model that you should be aware of before making your final decision.

Pros:

This vintage grinder  is constructed from high-quality materials, including olive wood which gives it a beautiful appearance.

It features adjustable grind settings so you can find the perfect coarseness for your needs.

This grinder is designed to be easy to use, even for those who are new to the world of coffee grinding.

Cons:

The price tag  is higher than some other models on the market.

It is a manual grinder, so it does require a bit more work than an electric model.

The grind settings may be too fine for those who prefer a coarser grind.

Our Conclusion

The Hario Olivewood Coffee Grinder is a great option for those looking for a quality vintage coffee grinder. It is made from high-quality materials and features adjustable grind settings to suit your needs. However, it is important to keep in mind that it is a manual grinder and does require a bit more work than an electric model. Additionally, the price tag on this particular grinder may be higher than some other models on the market.

CoffeeWerks Vintage Cafe Manual Ceramic Burr Coffee Grinder

CoffeeWerks Vintage Cafe Manual Ceramic Burr Coffee Grinder
CoffeeWerks Vintage Cafe Manual Ceramic Burr Coffee Grinder

While it was mentioned above, the vintage manual grinder is not just for those who love all things vintage and original, it's also perfect for people who find themselves without electricity often. That includes those people who live on their boat or in an RV. It's great for camping and hiking adventures, too.

Features:

  • Adjustable ceramic burr
  • Fully disassemble for cleaning
  • Compact size - 4.5 x 8 inches
  • Ceramic base
  • Stylish, vintage cafe appearance
  • Adjustment Upon Arrival

To keep the grinder from being damaged during shipping, the manufacturer ships it with the mechanisms very loose. You'll need to adjust the grind out of the box. There are two screws located in the bowl that need to be tightened. Remove the handle nut as well as the handle. The cog wheel is what needs to be adjusted to alter the grind size. Test it with a tablespoon of beans before making a full hopper.

Cleaning the Mechanism

The entire grinder can be dismantled to provide easy clean up for the best coffee. You don't want old, stale grinds hanging around inside the grinder. A brush will help you rid the grinder of old coffee dust and you can run a cup of rice through to clean the burr.

XHHOME Vintage Roman Style Manual Coffee Bean Grinder

XHHOME Vintage Roman Style Manual Coffee Bean Grinder
XHHOME Vintage Roman Style Manual Coffee Bean Grinder

If you're looking for a vintage coffee grinder that will look like an amazing conversation piece on your counter, this is the right grinder for you. It's a stunning blend of bronze and wood. This grinder will give you the ultimate control over the size of your grind for the perfect cup of coffee.

Features:

  • Cast iron
  • Closed bin design
  • Wooden base
  • Beautiful bronze and wood color
  • A Slow Grind

Add a small amount of coffee beans to the bowl of the grinder. Make sure you're ready to spend a few minutes turning the handle to get the perfect grind for your coffee. If you grind too fast, you'll end up with heat that can influence the flavor of the grind in the end.

Cleaning the Machine

One of the considerations for a grinder is getting inside to clean. You don't want to plunge the grinder into water since it can cause problems with the mechanism. Instead, use a damp cloth to clean the exterior but use a dry brush on the interior.

DGQ Manual Coffee Bean Hand Grinder Vintage Style

DGQ Manual Coffee Bean Hand Grinder Vintage Style
DGQ Manual Coffee Bean Hand Grinder Vintage Style

This has been included at the end of the list because while it's a vintage style coffee grinder, it's also a beautiful shiny metal that can blend a modern world with the vintage style you might love. It's a great compromise.

Features:

  • Sleek stainless finish
  • Adjustable grind
  • Compact design - 6.3 x 3.7 inches
  • Ceramic burr grinder
  • Adjusting Out of the Box

Upon arrival, remove the center nut and the handle. There are gaskets and a nut under the handle that can be removed, too. The hexagon screw is the one to be tightened or loosened to adjust your grind. The looser the screw, the coarser the grind. Tighten it fully to get a fine grind for espresso.

Cleaning the Grinder

This is a grinder that can be fully immersed in water to get it as clean as possible. The ceramic burr interior and stainless exterior means you don't have to worry about rust in the grinder if it's wet. Make sure it's completely dry, though, before attempting to grind your beans. Otherwise, you'll end up with a wet clumped mess at the end of your grinding time.

One of the best reasons to purchase a vintage coffee grinder is because of the grinder itself. When you grind your beans manually, you're getting a different flavor than if you were to use an electric grinder. It might be more convenient to use an electric, but some of the flavor profiles can change depending on the bean as well as the style of burr involved. A vintage manual grinder will give you an even grind that makes for a spectacular cup of coffee.

These are 3 of the best vintage grinders we've chosen for their style and grind mechanism. They'll look great on the counter of your rustic home, or on the counter of your RV (stuck with museum putty, of course).

Buying Guide for the Best Vintage Coffee Grinder

When it comes to vintage coffee grinders, there are a few things you should keep in mind before making your purchase.

Consider the Type of Grinder You Want

There are manual and electric grinders available, and each has its own set of pros and cons. Manual grinders are typically cheaper than electric ones, but they can be more difficult to use. Electric grinders are more expensive, but they're generally easier to use and offer more consistent results.

The Features You Want in a Grinder

Some grinders have built-in timers, while others don't. Some have adjustable grind settings, while others only have one or two settings. Consider what features are most important to you before making your decision.

Think About the Price

Vintage coffee grinders can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. It's important to set a budget before you start shopping so you don't overspend. Keep these things in mind and you're sure to find the perfect vintage coffee grinder for your needs.

Benefits of Having a Vintage Coffee Grinder

There are many benefits to having a vintage coffee grinder in your kitchen. For one, it allows you to create unique and flavorful coffees that are not possible with pre-ground coffee beans. Additionally, vintage grinders typically offer a higher level of precision than modern electric coffee grinders, allowing you to get the perfect grind for your preferred brewing method. Finally, using a vintage grinder can be a fun and interesting way to add some personality to your kitchen. Whether you are a coffee aficionado or simply enjoy trying new things, a vintage coffee grinder is a great addition to your kitchen arsenal.

Different Types of Vintage Coffee Grinders

There are many different types of vintage coffee grinders on the market, each with their own unique features and benefits. Here is a look at some of the most popular types of vintage coffee grinders:

Manual Vintage Coffee Grinders

These types of grinders are perfect for those who want complete control over their grinding process. With a manual grinder, you can choose the exact grind size that you want, ensuring that your coffee turns out exactly the way you like it. Manual grinders can be more time consuming than electric grinders, but they allow you to create a truly customized cup of coffee.

Electric Vintage Coffee Grinders

Electric grinders are perfect for those who want to save time when making their morning cup of coffee. These grinders work quickly and efficiently, grinding your beans in just a matter of seconds. While electric grinders may not offer the same level of control as manual grinders, they are still a great option for those who want a fresh cup of coffee without having to spend too much time grinding their beans.

Burr Vintage Coffee Grinders

Burr grinders are considered to be the best type of grinder for making coffee, as they provide a more even and consistent grind. With a burr grinder, you can choose the exact grind size that you want, ensuring that your coffee turns out exactly the way you like it. Burr grinders can be more expensive than other types of grinders, but they are definitely worth the investment if you want to make the perfect cup of coffee.

Blade Vintage Coffee Grinders

Blade grinders are the most common type of grinder on the market, and for good reason. They are very affordable and easy to use, making them a great option for those who are just starting out with grinding their own coffee beans. However, blade grinders can create a lot of dust and can be difficult to clean, so they may not be the best option for those who are looking for a more high-end grinder.

Conical Vintage Burr Coffee Grinders

Conical burr grinders are similar to burr grinders in that they provide a more even and consistent grind. However, they have a conical shape that allows them to grind coffee beans more evenly, resulting in a better tasting cup of coffee. Conical burr grinders can be more expensive than other types of grinders, but they are definitely worth the investment if you want to make the perfect cup of coffee.

Burr vs Blade grinder

There are two main types of coffee grinders: the burr grinder and the blade grinder. Both have their own pros and cons, so it's important to choose the right one for your needs.

Blade grinders are less expensive and easier to find than burr grinders. They're also small and compact, making them ideal for people who have limited counter space. However, blade grinders can be less consistent than burr grinders, and they can't produce as fine a grind.

Burr grinders are more expensive than blade grinders, but they offer a more consistent grind. They're also larger and require more counter space. However, they're worth the investment if you take your coffee seriously.

Best Features to Look for When Purchasing a Vintage Coffee Grinder

When it comes to choosing a vintage coffee grinder, there are several important factors that you'll need to take into account in order to ensure that you're getting the best possible product. Here are some of the most important things to look for when making your purchase:

The first thing you'll want to do is make sure that the grinder you're considering is actually classified as "vintage." There are plenty of modern grinders on the market that mimic the design of older models, but they simply don't offer the same level of quality or functionality. To be sure you're getting a true vintage grinder, only consider models that were produced prior to 1950.

Once you've narrow down your search to only true vintage grinders, the next step is to take a close look at each one's construction. You'll want to pay special attention to the materials that were used in its manufacture, as well as any unique details or features that set it apart from other models.

Nonetheless, be sure to give some thought to how you plan on using your grinder. If you only intend on using it for occasional home use, then a less expensive model may suffice. However, if you're looking for a grinder that can handle heavy-duty use on a daily basis, then you'll need to invest in a higher quality unit.

Expert Tips for Cleaning Your Vintage Coffee Grinder

If you're a coffee lover, chances are you have a vintage coffee grinder. These grinders can be tricky to clean, but with a little know-how, it's easy to keep your grinder in top condition. Here are some expert tips for cleaning your vintage coffee grinder:

  • Disassemble the grinder and clean all the parts separately. This includes the grinding chamber, burrs, and other removable parts. A good soak in warm, soapy water will help loosen any built-up coffee oils and debris.
  • Use a soft brush to scrub away any stubborn dirt or grime. Be careful not to damage the delicate parts of the grinder.
  • Rinse all the parts well and dry them thoroughly before reassembling the grinder.
  • Once a month, you can give your grinder a deep clean by soaking all the parts in vinegar overnight. Rinse well and dry thoroughly before reassembling.

Buy on Etsy, Walmart, eBay (limited quantity)

Zassenhaus - 40098 Zassenhaus Santiago Coffee Mill Grinder Beech Wood, 5.5 x 3.5 x 7.8, - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Zassenhaus Brasilia Coffee Mill, Beechwood Manual Coffee Bean Grinder, Traditional Hand - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Hario Olivewood Manual Coffee Grinder, Brown - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Peugeot Antique Coffee Mill, 8-1/4" x 5" x 5" - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Norpro 5548 Coffee Grinder, 8" x 4.5" x 4.5", Chestnut Finish - Walmart, Etsy, eBay

Zassenhaus M040012 Brasilia Beech Wood Manual Coffee Mill, Dunkel Gebeizt, Dark/Chrome - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Manual Coffee Grinder, IMAVO Wooden Coffee Bean Grinder Manual Coffee Grinder Roller, - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Melitta Coffee Mill Classic MJ-0503 - Walmart, Etsy, Ebay

Conclusion for Vintage Grinder Buyers

As you're in the market for a vintage grinder, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure to inspect the condition of the grinder carefully. Look for any cracks, chips or other damage. Second, ask the seller about the grinder's history. How long have they had it? Where did they get it? Has it been well cared for? Finally, take your time when making your decision. A vintage grinder can be a great investment, but only if it's the right one for you. With a little bit of research and due diligence, you're sure to find the perfect addition to your kitchen.

About Jeanette Kierstead

Jeanette has been testing and reviewing kitchen appliances for over six years now, so she knows her stuff when it comes to finding the best ones. In her spare time, she loves nothing more than baking cakes and cookies – especially if she can do so with one of her favorite stand mixers! When she's not in the kitchen, Jeanette is usually looking after everything homes-related; from garden tools to smart home products.

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