It’s no secret that I’m a huge fan of Rocket espresso machines. In fact, I’d go so far as to say that Rocket Espresso produces some of the best prosumer espresso machines around. With that in mind, I’m excited to bring you my initial Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato review.
As you’d expect from this manufacturer, the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato features a blend of classic Italian design, commercial-grade components and exceptional performance. Sure, you’ll pay a pretty penny for this machine, but if you’re looking for a premium home espresso experience, the Mozzafiato Timer could be just the ticket.
Coming up, I’ll tell you all about this special espresso machine and why it sits head and shoulders above the competition. Let’s do this!
Best value Rocket espresso machine?
Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato Timer Type V
Superb machine loaded with fantastic features
High-quality design and build
Professional components
Digital timer and PID controller
Powerful steam wand
Heat exchanger boiler
Not ideal for beginners
| Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato Timer Type V | |
| Manufacturer | Rocket Espresso |
|---|---|
| Model number | MOZZAFIATO CRONOMETRO V |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Stainless Steel |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 84.5 fl oz / 2.5 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 3.5 in / 8.9 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 1 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1200 W |
| Weight | 55.8 lb / 25.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 15.8 x 11.0 x 16.8 in |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, 2 x portafilters, 2 x filter baskets, backflushing basket, tamper, group brush |
| Current price on Amazon | BUY NOW ON AMAZON |
| All specifications | |
Table of Contents
Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato Review Overview
If you happen to have read my hands-on Rocket Appartamento review, you’ll know that I was mighty impressed by the manufacturer’s entry-level model. In fact, I could see many folks being happy to have the Appartamento as their daily driver. However, if you’re looking for something that’ll offer the ultimate in control, precision and power, the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato will certainly fit the bill.
Just like the Appartamento,the Mozzafiato is a premium heat exchanger (HX) machine with a professional 58mm portafilter and timeless E61 group head. Plus, both machines display Rocket’s signature design language. In saying that, I’m referring to an abundance of polished stainless steel, satisfyingly chunky dials and a sleek, minimalist silhouette. However, the Mozzafiato Timer will set you back around $2,500.00, making it significantly more expensive.
So, what sets the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato Timer apart? Well, this beauty is bigger and more powerful than its entry-level sibling. What’s more, the Mozzafiato has been equipped with a digital shot timer as well as an adjustable PID controller. I’ll go into more detail later in this review. However, for now you should know that both of these features will help you in your quest for espresso perfection.
As I already mentioned, the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato Timer is an HX machine. This means you’re able to prepare coffee and steam milk simultaneously. Trust me, if you’ve only ever used a single boiler machine, having this capability will blow your mind! Oh, and thanks to its superb design and premium features, the Mozzafiato will offer tons more temperature stability than even the best beginner espresso machines.
A Technical Deep Dive: Key Machine Components
OK, now that we have a clearer idea of what the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato is all about, it’s time to take a closer look at this magnificent beast. Let’s continue this review by examining the Mozzafiato’s standout features and what makes it one of the best home espresso machines on the market.
User Interface & Pressure Gauges
I just love how Rocket espresso machines come with big, beautiful dials and an old school manual brew lever. The latter feature offers a truly tactile approach to espresso preparation, and you’ll be in charge of pre-infusion as well as starting and stopping the brewing process. As for the steam and water dials, you’ll be able to precisely regulate the pressure of each function, which puts you firmly in control of what’s happening.
Elsewhere, the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato features two manometers – one for monitoring pressure in the boiler, and another for monitoring pressure at the group head. These gauges don’t just look cool, they’ll really help you as you’re dialing in your shots.
Speaking of dialing in, there’s also a super cool little digital timer on the front of the Mozzafiato. Rocket has done a great job of keeping this modern trapping as subtle as possible, meaning it doesn’t interfere with the machine’s clean, minimalist aesthetic.
Finally, there’s a digital PID controller hidden behind the drip tray. This allows you to precisely adjust the boiler temperature, which is a truly awesome feature to have on a heat exchanger espresso machine.
Heat Exchanger Boiler and Steam System
Thanks to its 61-ounce (1.8-liter) insulated brass boiler, copper tubing and heat exchanger design, you can expect exceptional thermal stability from the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato. And as I’m sure you know, maintaining consistent temperature is key to successful espresso preparation.
So, what’s the deal with a heat exchanger boiler, anyway? Allow me to illuminate! The majority of the brass boiler is reserved for milk steaming, which requires higher temperatures than you’d want for making coffee. However, there’s a small section that’s kept separate, constantly circulating water through the E61 group head and keeping it at a lower temperature for brewing. And this is how you’re able to make espresso and steam milk at the same time. Cool right?
Speaking of steaming milk, the Mozzafiato’s steam wand is about as powerful as you’d ever want. In fact, if my experience using the Rocket Appartamento is anything to go by, it’ll take a while to get used to the machine’s steam pressure. Needless to say, once you’ve gotten the hang of using the thing, you’ll be able to whip up sumptuous microfoam for making latte art. Oh, and to cap it all off, the Mozzafiato’s steam wand is fully insulated, so you won’t burn your fingers in the process!
PID and E61 Group Head
Is there anything more beautiful than an espresso machine equipped with the legendary E61 group head? I don’t think so! There’s a reason you’ll see this classic brew group design on so many prosumer espresso machines; it does an exceptional job of maintaining stable brew temperature. Thanks to its thermosiphon design, water constantly circulates through the exposed group head, and will always be at the correct temperature for brewing.
Now, with the Rocket Appartamento I found that the odd cooling flush was still necessary. Besides, it never hurts to run a little water through the brew group before making coffee. But I imagine that you won’t be complaining about inconsistency with the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato Timer. Besides, as you already know, this machine has an adjustable PID controller hidden away behind the drip tray. This means that you can make precise changes to the boiler temperature if you want to experiment with different espresso beans and coffee roast profiles.
Water Management: Internal Water Tank or Direct Plumbing?
During this Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato review I’ve been discussing the Type V model, which is equipped with a vibratory pump. This kind of pump is commonly used on home espresso machines, and although it’ll be rather loud, it’s way more inexpensive than a rotary pump. The Type V model has an 84.5-ounce (2.5-liter) internal water tank, which means you’ll need to refill the reservoir when it’s running low. Still, most home espresso machine users will be accustomed to this kind of setup.
With all that said, the Rocket Mozzafiato Timer Type R offers a superior rotary pump as well as the opportunity to plumb the machine into your water supply. Sure, you’ll have to shell out a lot more money for the privilege. But there are significant benefits involved. For starters, the rotary pump is extremely quiet and features controls for adjusting pump pressure. Moreover, plumbing the machine directly into a water line eliminates the need for refills and enhances the Mozzafiato’s pre-infusion function.
Oh, and just for good measure, the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato Type R also includes an internal water tank accessed via the top of the machine. Best of both worlds anyone?!
What Accessories Are Included with the Mozzafiato?
As you’d hope from an espresso machine costing well over $2,000.00, the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato comes with just about everything you’ll need to get started making espresso.
Upon unboxing the machine, you’ll be greeted by another box containing a high-quality metal tamper, group head brush and two spouted portafilters. You’ll also get single and double filter baskets, a blind basket for backflushing and a nice microfiber cloth.
Unfortunately, there’s no milk steaming pitcher included. Even more unfortunate is the fact that you’re going to have to spend a decent amount of money on a grinder to get the best out of this machine! I’d recommend getting hold of the best espresso grinder you can find, although that doesn’t mean you’ll have to max out your credit card. Check out my MiiCoffee DF64 Grinder review if you want proof.
Coffeeness Medium Roast Espresso
Well-balanced with chocolate & hazelnut notes
Freshly roasted in Brooklyn
Very low acidity
Mastering Your Brew: Workflow & Key Techniques
I’ve already discussed the Rocket Mozzafiato’s superb thermal stability. However, you should bear in mind that in order to reap the benefits of this feature, the espresso machine will require a substantial heat-up time. And when I say substantial, I’m talking about at least half an hour.
Once the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato has come up to temperature, the brew group will be really hot. Oh, and if you want to remove the manufacturer’s warning label from the group head, do so before heating the thing up. Otherwise, you’ll have a heck of a time getting the sticky residue to come off.
As I mentioned earlier, it’s a good idea to perform a cooling flush before pulling a shot of espresso. Trust me, even an HX machine with an E61 will suffer from water that’s flash boiling at the brew group from time to time. Fortunately, it’s simply a case of purging the brew group for a few seconds before making coffee, so no big deal.
By the way, I should mention that using the manual brew lever is super straightforward. You simply pull the lever up to the halfway point to preinfuse before lifting it the rest of the way to engage the pump. And don’t forget to stop your shot once you’re happy – the Mozzafiato won’t do that for you!
Essential Maintenance: Keeping Your Mozzafiato in Peak Condition
Without a doubt, regular cleaning and maintenance are vital for the continued performance and longevity of any espresso machine. Listen, I won’t lecture you or bore you with too many details. Still, I can give you a brief idea of what to take care of.
For starters, get into the habit of rinsing the group head and portafilter after every shot of espresso. And at the end of each day’s use, make sure to scrub the filter basket and brush off the dispersion screen.
Once a week or so, I’d recommend backsflushing the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato using espresso machine cleaning powder. Oh, and it doesn’t hurt to backflush with just water once every couple of days, especially if the machine sees heavy use.
Finally, I can’t stress enough how important it is to use filtered water in the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato Timer. Trust me, hard water will quickly cause limescale to build up inside the machine, and that’ll seriously mess with its internal components. Besides, by using soft water, you’ll seldom have to descale your espresso machine.
Is the Mozzafiato Worth It? Long-Term Value & Potential Upgrades
In my opinion, the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato is definitely worth the investment if you’re serious about making espresso at home. This baby is about as good as it gets in terms of construction, design and performance. What’s more, it’ll last for years if taken care of properly and will hold its value well. Not that you’d ever want to sell it!
Incidentally, not only is the Mozzafiato Timer a solid and well-made machine, it features fairly standard internal components. In saying that, I’m touching on the fact that if anything does go wrong, it won’t be difficult to replace the faulty part. So, this only makes the Mozzafiato an even more solid investment.
Chances are, if you’re the type of home barista to invest in the Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato, you’ll be interested in upgrades and mods. After all, experimentation is part of the fun! Fortunately, you won’t have a hard time finding the very best espresso accessories to go with this machine. Everything from precision VST baskets to bottomless portafilters and fancy wooden accent handles is widely available online.
Verdict: Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato Review
Best value Rocket espresso machine?
Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato Timer Type V
Superb machine loaded with fantastic features
High-quality design and build
Professional components
Digital timer and PID controller
Powerful steam wand
Heat exchanger boiler
Not ideal for beginners
| Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato Timer Type V | |
| Manufacturer | Rocket Espresso |
|---|---|
| Model number | MOZZAFIATO CRONOMETRO V |
| Product category | Manual espresso machine |
| Housing material | Stainless steel |
| Color options | Stainless Steel |
| Milk frother | Steam wand |
| User interface | Buttons and dials |
| App | |
| User profiles | Memo function only |
| Portafilter size | 58 mm |
| Tamping | Manual |
| Removable water reservoir | |
| Water reservoir capacity | 84.5 fl oz / 2.5 l |
| Number of boilers | 1 |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar |
| Maximum cup height | 3.5 in / 8.9 cm |
| Grinder | N/A |
| Grind adjustment levels | N/A |
| Bean hopper capacity | N/A |
| Specialty drinks | 1 |
| Pre-infusion | |
| Adjustable coffee temperature | |
| Adjustable milk foam temperature | |
| 2-cup function | Yes (non-milk drinks only) |
| Hot water function | |
| Hot milk function | |
| Milk foam only option | |
| Water filter | |
| Power consumption | 1200 W |
| Weight | 55.8 lb / 25.4 kg |
| Dimensions | 15.8 x 11.0 x 16.8 in |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Notes | Included Accessories: User manual, 2 x portafilters, 2 x filter baskets, backflushing basket, tamper, group brush |
| Current price on Amazon | BUY NOW ON AMAZON |
| All specifications | |
If you’ve made it to the end of my Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato review, I imagine there’s a good chance you’ll wish you owned this thing. I certainly do, and as soon as I’ve bought the machine from Seattle Coffee Gear I’ll test it out and tell you about my experiences.
To be honest, I pretty much know what to expect, having tested the Rocket Appartamento: something similar but even better.
Ultimately, this espresso machine isn’t for everyone. After all, many folks want something less “hands on” and more affordable. However, if you have the money to invest in a magnificent machine that’ll last for years and you want to take your espresso hobby to the limit, don’t think twice.
Do you own the Rocket Mozzafiato Timer? Feel free to share your experiences with the Coffeeness community in the comments section!
Rocket Mozzafiato Timer FAQ
The Rocket Espresso Mozzafiato is made by hand in Milan, Italy.
Seeing as the Rocket Mozzafiato demands a substantial level of experience on the part of the user, it’s considered an intermediate rather than beginner-level machine.
Thanks to its superb design, quality build and outstanding performance, the Rocket Mozzafiato is definitely worth the asking price.