KōNO’s 90th Anniversary Ceramic Handbrew Filter

If you’ve ever wondered what makes a handbrew coffee filter truly special—beyond just holding grounds—then KōNO’s latest release might surprise you. This isn’t your standard plastic or metal dripper. For its 90th anniversary, Japan’s historic siphon manufacturer has crafted something far more personal and artisanal.

In short: KōNO’s third-generation president, Masanobu Kawano, has created the company’s first-ever ceramic handbrew filter, modeled after the original 1973 MD-21 prototype, and each one is individually hand-painted and signed—making it a true collectible piece.

KōNO: A Legacy Beyond Siphons

Next year marks the 90th anniversary of KōNO (formerly known as Kyōrin Suihō Kabushiki Kaisha), Japan’s long-standing manufacturer of siphon coffee brewers. While best known for its iconic glass siphons, the brand is now venturing into the pour-over space with a very limited edition piece. This isn’t a mass-market product—it’s a tribute to craftsmanship and heritage.

The First Ceramic Dripper from KōNO

This anniversary release is KōNO’s very first ceramic handbrew filter. It’s modelled specifically on the MD-21, the original prototype developed in 1973. The design harks back to that era, combining vintage functionality with modern collectibility. The filter isn’t just a replica—it’s a faithful reimagining of that early design with contemporary artistry.

Handcrafted and One-of-a-Kind

What sets this filter apart is its production process. Each ceramic dripper is individually hand-painted, featuring unique patterns. To complete the piece, KōNO’s third-generation president, Masanobu Kawano, personally signs each one before it goes into the kiln. These steps make every filter unique—and extremely limited in availability.

The attention to detail means these aren’t produced in large batches. In fact, the small production run ensures that each piece is effectively a numbered collectible. The signature and hand-painted details elevate it from a brewing tool to a piece of coffee history.

Why This Matters for Coffee Enthusiasts

For specialty coffee lovers, brewing equipment can dramatically influence the final cup. While the MD-21-style ceramic filter hasn’t been tested here for flow rate or extraction profiles, its vintage-inspired design nods to a time when precision and craftsmanship were paramount in coffee preparation. Owning one connects you to nearly a century of Japanese coffee innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the KōNO V01 ceramic filter?

The KōNO V01 is a limited-edition ceramic handbrew coffee filter released for the brand’s 90th anniversary. It is modelled on the 1973 MD-21 prototype and features unique hand-painted designs, plus a personal signature from KōNO’s third-generation president, Masanobu Kawano.

Is the KōNO V01 filter still in production?

The article does not specify ongoing production, but given the emphasis on limited numbers and individual handcrafting, it is implied that availability is scarce and possibly limited to a specific production run.

What makes the KōNO V01 different from other coffee drippers?

Unlike mass-produced plastic or metal drippers, the KōNO V01 is made from ceramic, based on a 1973 prototype, and each piece is hand-painted and signed by the company’s president—making it both a functional brewer and a collectible art piece.

Does the KōNO V01 affect coffee extraction differently?

The article does not provide specific brewing data or extraction metrics for the KōNO V01. Its design is based on the historic MD-21 prototype, but actual performance compared to other filters is not detailed.

How can I get a KōNO V01 filter?

The article does not include purchase details, but given its limited, hand-numbered nature and signature element, it is likely available in very small quantities, possibly through special channels or anniversaries events.

Is the KōNO V01 filter functional for daily use?

While designed with the 1973 MD-21 prototype in mind, the KōNO V01 is primarily positioned as a collectible. Its functionality for daily brewing isn’t emphasized, but it presumably serves the basic purpose of a handbrew dripper.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Ceramic Drippers

For use with the KōNO V01 ceramic filter, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Yirgacheffe, known for its bright citrus, floral notes, and light body—perfect for showcasing clarity in a pour-over. The Kenya AA also works beautifully, offering blackcurrant, tart berry, and wine-like acidity. Alternatively, the Colombia Huila provides balanced caramel, nutty sweetness, and medium acidity. All three shine with precise, clean extractions. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.