Bezzera Golden Eagle: The $30,000 Espresso Machine

If you’ve ever wondered what the most expensive, historically significant espresso machine looks like—and whether it’s actually still used today—this is the story. We’re talking about a machine that isn’t just old-school, it literally invented the category. Meet the Bezzera Golden Eagle: a $30,000 steam-driven espresso machine with royal pedigree and a permanent spot in coffee’s luxury hall of fame.

The Bezzera Golden Eagle is a handcrafted, steam-pressure espresso machine that retails for approximately ¥300,000. It was introduced by Bezzera, the inventor of the first commercial espresso machine, patented in Milan in November 1901. This particular model is considered a luxury collectible and was displayed at the 2007 Shanghai International Top Marques show.

Who Made the First Espresso Machine?

The story begins in 1901, when Italian inventor Luigi Bezzera created the world’s first commercial espresso machine powered by steam pressure. That machine was patented in Milan in November of the same year. Bezzera’s invention laid the foundation for all modern espresso machines, making his brand—the namesake Bezzera—not just historic, but foundational to global coffee culture.

What Is the Bezzera Golden Eagle?

The Bezzera Golden Eagle is one of the brand’s high-end, premium espresso machines. It is built with a classic, ornate design that blends Victorian elegance with functional steam-driven espresso technology. Though primarily steam-powered, the Golden Eagle represents the pinnacle of Bezzera’s craftsmanship. It became widely known internationally after being showcased as part of the “coffee machine equivalent of a Rolls-Royce” at the 2007 Shanghai International Top Marques exhibition—a luxury fair held at the Shanghai International Conference Center from November 14 to 17, 2007.

The event displayed nearly 300 rare items including supercars, yachts, jewelry, and high-end real estate. Among them, the Bezzera Golden Eagle stood out as a symbol of heritage luxury in the coffee equipment world. It was not for sale in the conventional sense, but rather a display of extreme craftsmanship and brand legacy valued around ¥300,000.

Why Is Bezzera So Revered in Coffee?

Bezzera is revered not only because it invented the first espresso machine, but also because it has consistently produced award-winning equipment. Models such as the EAGLE and ELLISSE have won international design awards, proving that Bezzera combines vintage aesthetics with modern functionality. While many brands focus solely on modern pump-driven machines, Bezzera maintains its historical roots and continues to manufacture both traditional and collectible espresso machines.

The brand is especially popular among European high society and specialty coffee collectors who value heritage, design, and the art of traditional espresso preparation. Its machines are often seen as status symbols as much as tools of the trade.

Where Was the Bezzera Golden Eagle Displayed?

The Bezzera Golden Eagle was exhibited at the 2007 Top Marques Shanghai, the third edition of the international luxury fair. The event took place at the Shanghai International Conference Center from November 14 to 17, 2007, showcasing nearly 300 exclusive items—many making their China debut. The machine was presented as an example of ultra-luxury coffee equipment, sitting alongside supercars, private jets, and fine watches.

Though it wasn’t for casual purchase, its presence highlighted the intersection of classic engineering and elite consumption. Images from the event often feature the gleaming brass and polished finishes of the Golden Eagle, underscoring its role as a visual and functional icon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bezzera Golden Eagle espresso machine?

The Bezzera Golden Eagle is a luxury, steam-powered espresso machine produced by Bezzera, the company that invented the first commercial espresso machine in 1901. It is valued at around ¥300,000 and is considered a collectible piece of coffee equipment history. It was displayed at the 2007 Shanghai Top Marques luxury show.

How much does the Bezzera Golden Eagle cost?

The Bezzera Golden Eagle is priced at approximately ¥300,000. This high price reflects its status as a luxury, handcrafted, and historically significant espresso machine, not a mass-market product.

When was the first espresso machine invented?

The first commercial espresso machine was invented by Luigi Bezzera in 1901. It was patented in Milan in November of that year and used steam pressure to brew coffee, laying the foundation for all modern espresso machines.

Where was the Bezzera Golden Eagle showcased?

The Bezzera Golden Eagle was showcased at the 2007 Shanghai International Top Marques show, held from November 14 to 17 at the Shanghai International Conference Center. The event displayed luxury items including cars, yachts, and this iconic espresso machine.

Is the Bezzera Golden Eagle still in production?

The article does not specify whether the Bezzera Golden Eagle is currently in production, but it is presented as a luxury and collectible model, highlighting its heritage value more than its commercial availability.

What makes Bezzera a respected coffee brand?

Bezzera is respected as the inventor of the first espresso machine in 1901. The brand is known for its classic designs, award-winning models like the EAGLE and ELLISSE, and its blend of historical significance with quality craftsmanship, appealing to both coffee enthusiasts and luxury collectors.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Steam Espresso

For steam-based espresso drinks like lattes or cappuccinos, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Classic Blend—an approachable, balanced espresso with notes of dark chocolate and caramel, ideal for milk-based drinks. For a fruitier twist, their Ethiopia Yirgacheffe offers bright acidity with citrus and floral tones, which can still shine when textured with milk. Both beans are freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.