A vintage coffee percolator is a fun and unique way to brew coffee. Percolators were popular in the early 20th century before automatic drip coffee makers became widespread. Now, vintage percolators are making a comeback as interest grows in manual, artisanal coffee preparation. Brewing coffee in a stovetop percolator evokes nostalgia for past eras and provides a hands-on, aromatic experience.
Vintage percolators can be found at antique stores, thrift shops, online auctions, estate sales, and from individual sellers. Models from the 1940s-1970s from brands like Farberware, General Electric, West Bend, and Sunbeam are plentiful. With beautiful chrome and enamel finishes, these percolators are eye-catching kitchen appliances. Their simple and durable construction also makes them ideal for daily use.
Elite Gourmet Electric Coffee Percolator
Elite Gourmet electric coffee percolator allows you to brew up to 12 cups of delicious coffee or tea. With lightweight and portable design, this percolator features an easy to clean removable stainless steel filter, power and ready indicator lights, automatic keep warm function, and 360° swivel base for cordless serving.
The Elite Gourmet percolator has stylish stainless steel finish and precision pouring spout. Its comfort grip heat resistant handle makes serving safe and easy. This unit makes the perfect addition to any home or office for quick coffee brewing. The clear brew progress knob lets you monitor the percolating process.
Key features:
- 12-cup capacity
- Automatic keep warm function
- 360° swivel base
- Removable stainless steel filter
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Brews up to 12 cups
- Cordless serving
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Needs coarse ground coffee
- Noise during percolating
Primula Stovetop Coffee Percolator
The Primula stovetop coffee percolator allows you to brew rich, full-flavored coffee on the stovetop or campfire. Constructed from durable aluminum, this 9-cup percolator heats up quickly for piping hot percolated coffee. The clear dome knob on the lid lets you monitor the coffee and remove from heat when it reaches your desired color.
This lightweight percolator features stay cool handle and lidded spout for easy and safe pouring. It works with almost any heat source and is ideal for camping. The Primula stovetop coffee maker delivers robust taste of percolator coffee without the hassle of electricity.
Key features:
- 9-cup capacity
- Aluminum construction
- Clear dome knob on lid
- Stay cool handle
Pros:
- Makes strong, full-flavored coffee
- Heats up quickly
- Lightweight and portable
- No electricity required
Cons:
- Coffee ground residue in coffee
- Need coarse grind coffee
West Bend Electric Coffee Percolator
The West Bend electric coffee percolator allows you to brew up to 12 cups of robust and aromatic percolated coffee. This stainless steel percolator features durable construction and attractive chrome finish. It quickly brews coffee and automatically switches to keep warm mode when done to ensure each cup stays hot.
The ready-to-serve indicator light lets you know when coffee is ready. The detachable cord provides ability to serve fresh perked coffee right at table. Other useful features include heat resistant handle and base, and dishwasher safe removable parts.
Key features:
- 12-cup capacity
- Automatic keep warm function
- Detachable cord
- Ready-to-serve light indicator
Pros:
- Brews strong, robust coffee
- Large 12-cup capacity
- Keeps coffee hot automatically
- Easy cordless serving
Cons:
- Noisy when percolating
- Needs coarse coffee grounds
Moss & Stone Electric Coffee Percolator
The Moss & Stone electric coffee percolator allows you to brew up to 10 cups of hot, robust coffee. This unique coffee pot features copper body construction with stainless steel lids and percolator design. The percolator brews full-flavored coffee quickly and keeps it hot automatically with the keep warm function.
The Moss & Stone coffee maker has easy touchscreen controls. Its lightweight and portable design makes it perfect for use at home or while camping. The clear glass knob on the lid allows you to monitor the percolating process for desired strength.
Key features:
- 10-cup capacity
- Copper body and stainless lids
- Keep warm function
- Touchscreen controls
Pros:
- Brews strong, flavored coffee
- Lightweight and portable
- Automatic keep warm
- Easy touchscreen operation
Cons:
- Noisy when percolating
- Spout different than pictured
Eurolux Stovetop Coffee Percolator
The Eurolux stovetop coffee percolator allows you to brew robust, full-flavored coffee on the stovetop, grill or open fire. This 9-cup percolator is made of durable stainless steel material with brass rivets and wooden handle. It can brew coffee without electricity, making it ideal for home, travel and camping.
The Eurolux coffee pot includes filter basket and reusable filters. The clear glass knob on the lid lets you monitor the percolating process for desired strength. Solid construction allows it to withstand outdoor use. The stylish design provides convenience for daily coffee brewing needs.
Key features:
- 9-cup capacity
- Durable stainless steel
- Clear glass knob on lid
- Wooden handle
Pros:
- Brews strong, flavored coffee
- No electricity required
- Solid stainless steel construction
- Convenient for daily use
Cons:
- Need coarse coffee grounds
- Glass knob prone to breaking
Medelco One All 8-Cup Capacity Stovetop Glass Percolator
Medelco stovetop glass percolator brews hot, flavorful coffee with its borosilicate glass construction. Easy to use on any stovetop, it percolates coffee to extract robust flavor. The clear glass lets you watch the percolating process.
This 8-cup percolator includes the stem, basket, lid and trivet for complete functionality right out of the box. It's lightweight at just 0.99 lbs but made from durable laboratory-grade glass. The handle stays cool while brewing.
Cleaning up is a breeze since the percolator is fully immersible and dishwasher-safe. No paper filters needed thanks to the reusable metal filter basket. Just scoop in your favorite coffee grounds and let the percolating begin!
Key features:
- 8-cup capacity
- Durable borosilicate glass
- Cool-touch handle
- Reusable filter basket
Pros:
- Allows you to watch coffee percolating
- Easy to use and clean
- Produces robust, flavorful coffee
- Lightweight yet durable construction
Cons:
- Takes longer to brew than drip coffee makers
- Paper filters not included
Coleman 12-Cup Stainless Steel Coffee Percolator
Coleman stovetop percolator brews up to 12 cups of hot, robust coffee with its sturdy stainless steel design. Perfect for outdoor adventures, it works on any cooking surface from a camp stove to your kitchen range.
This lightweight percolator includes the durable base, tube, basket and lid to get steaming cups of coffee brewing on any heat source. The stainless steel resists corrosion for long-lasting performance.
Pour confidently with the permanently-attached side handle that provides a balanced grip. Cleanup is easy since the percolator is completely immersible and safe for the dishwasher.
Key features:
- 12-cup capacity
- Stainless steel design
- Corrosion resistant
- Dishwasher safe
Pros:
- Brews flavorful coffee anywhere
- Large 12-cup capacity
- Durable stainless steel construction
- Easy to pour and clean
Cons:
- Takes longer to brew coffee
- No interior cup markings
Cuisinart PRC-12 Classic 12-Cup Stainless-Steel Percolator
The Cuisinart stovetop percolator uses stainless steel to brew up to 12 cups of hot, strong coffee. Watch the percolating action through the clear knob on top.
Manual operation gives you control over brew time for customized flavor extraction. The stainless steel won't impart odors or tastes to the coffee. For easy serving, the cord detaches and the base stays cool.
Cleanup is fast since all parts including the filter basket are immersible and dishwasher-safe. No need for paper filters.
This percolator combines classic design with modern functionality. Its polished steel looks great on the stovetop while delivering delicious coffee.
Key features:
- 12-cup capacity
- Stainless steel construction
- Clear top knob
- Detachable cord
Pros:
- Allows monitoring of percolating
- Brews flavorful, robust coffee
- Easy to detach cord and serve
- Dishwasher-safe parts for fast cleaning
Cons:
- Manual operation only
- Takes longer than drip machines
Farberware Classic Stainless Steel Yosemite 12-Cup Coffee Percolator
The Farberware stovetop percolator uses stainless steel to brew great-tasting coffee on any stove. Its mirror-polish finish provides a classic look in any kitchen.
Brew up to 12 cups of coffee with the permanent filter basket that eliminates messy paper filters. The tight-fitting lid seals in heat while the clear knob indicates percolating progress.
The comfortable handle enables easy pouring and a confident grip. When brewing's complete, the detachable cord allows easy serving.
For fast cleanup, all parts are dishwasher-safe. This durable percolator will provide years of delicious coffee.
Key features:
- 12-cup capacity
- Stainless steel design
- Permanent filter basket
- Detachable cord
Pros:
- Large 12-cup capacity
- Brews flavorful coffee
- Eliminates paper filters
- Easy to detach cord and serve
Cons:
- Takes longer than drip machines
- Handle may get hot
Coffee Maker Pot Medelco 8 Cup Glass Stovetop Stove Top Tea Machine Percolator
The Medelco glass percolator uses borosilicate glass to let you watch coffee brewing. Its stovetop design works on any burner to percolate hot, robust coffee.
The 8-cup capacity is perfect for personal use. All parts including the stem, basket, lid and trivet are included for complete functionality. The lightweight but durable glass construction includes a cool-touch handle.
For easy cleanup, the percolator is fully immersible and dishwasher safe. No paper filters needed thanks to the reusable filter.
This affordable percolator provides the nostalgic experience of stovetop coffee brewing. The clear glass construction lets you monitor the percolating process from start to finish.
Key features:
- 8-cup capacity
- Borosilicate glass construction
- Cool-touch handle
- Reusable filter
Pros:
- Allows monitoring percolating process
- Lightweight yet durable
- Easy to use and clean
- Provides nostalgic experience
Cons:
- Takes longer than drip coffee makers
- Paper filters not included
Buying Guide for Vintage Coffee Percolators
When searching for a vintage coffee percolator, there are several factors to evaluate so you select the right model for your needs and budget.
Materials
Vintage percolators were commonly constructed from metal and glass.
Popular metals used include:
- Aluminum - Lightweight and affordable but prone to staining and warping.
- Stainless steel - Durable, stain-resistant, and easy to clean but may show some discoloration over time.
- Enameled steel - Steel percolator with a colored porcelain enamel coating. Provides an attractive, chip-resistant finish.
Glass elements may include the percolator's view tube, knob stems, or lid. Glass allows you to visually monitor the brew but is fragile.
Choosing between metal and glass depends on your priorities for appearance, durability, and brew monitoring capability.
Size
Vintage percolators come in sizes ranging from 3 to 12 cups. Consider how much coffee you plan to brew to determine the ideal capacity.
Factors like brew time, stove space, and serving needs also influence size selection. Larger sizes allow you to entertain and serve coffee to groups but take more time and stove space to brew. Smaller sizes work well for solo use or couples and have quicker brew cycles.
You can find excellent vintage percolators in common sizes like 6, 8, 9, and 12 cups. Just ensure the size aligns with your typical requirements.
Style
There are two primary styles of vintage percolators:
- Stovetop - Designed to brew directly on a stovetop burner. Typically made of stainless steel or enameled steel. Includes a detachable cord.
- Electric - Brews with an internal electric heating element. Housing made of aluminum or steel. Has a fixed power cord.
Stovetop percolators are more widely available vintage and offer versatile placement. Electric models provide cord-free countertop use but may have outdated cords or worn internal elements.
Style selection comes down to your available kitchen setup and preference for instant on/off control (electric) versus manual temperature modulation (stovetop).
Era
Vintage percolators mainly date from the 1930s to 1970s. The era provides clues about potential quality andcollector appeal.
- 1930s-40s - Earliest electric and stovetop percolators. Art deco styling. Rare and valuable but may lack refinement.
- 1950s-60s - Postwar boom. Abundant availability. Established designs and handsome styling. Offer a true vintage experience.
- 1970s - Last era before automatic drip popularity. Excellent performers but blander styling from emerging plastics.
Focus your search from the 1950s-60s to get an authentic, functional vintage percolator that encapsulates mid-century style and spirit.
Condition
The condition directly impacts functionality and available restoration options. Assess these key areas:
- Body - Check for dents, chips, cracks, and warping. Signs decrease durability and leak resistance.
- Interior - Must be clean with no residue, rust, or scale buildup. Indicates previous care and current brew readiness.
- Finishes - Some wear expected but beware excessive flaking, discoloration, or loss of enamel coatings.
- Electrics - Power cord, heating element, switches, and internal wiring should have no cracks or exposed sections.
- Parts - All components (basket, perk tube, lid) must be present and undamaged. Replacement parts can be hard to source.
Well-maintained vintage percolators will exhibit light patina but no substantial damage. Carefully inspect condition before purchase to avoid restoration frustrations.
Brand
Leading vintage percolator brands to look for include:
- Farberware - Top seller through the 1960s. Quality materials and simple styling. Models like the A-91 Cup are prized.
- General Electric - Mass manufacturer from the 1950s-70s. Chrome and plastic styles common. Budget-friendly option.
- West Bend - Innovative Wisconsin company. High-end features and materials for the era. Models like the 440 fetching high prices.
- Sunbeam - Major competitor to GE. Reliable, mid-range products. Cafe series notable for art deco style.
Seeking out reputable vintage brands helps ensure you get a well-constructed, long-lasting percolator. Brand is also a factor for collectors seeking certain models and designs.
Price
Expect to pay $20-150 for most vintage percolators depending on era, size, condition, and brand. Pricing considerations:
- Materials - Stainless steel and enameled models command higher prices than plain aluminum.
- Special Editions - Limited production runs in unique colors or patterns merit premium pricing.
- Size - Larger 12-cup sizes often cost more than smaller 3-6 cup percolators.
- Condition - Models with damage or heavy wear have lower value. Near mint condition brings top dollar.
- Brands - Leading brands like Farberware and Sunbeam carry higher price tags, especially rare models.
With some searching, excellent vintage percolators can be found for $60 or less. Be prepared to spend $100-150 for pristine condition or rare styles. Consider your budget and how much restoration you can undertake.
Where to Buy
Top places to source vintage percolators include:
- eBay - World's largest vintage marketplace. Broad selection and bidding format helps control prices.
- Etsy - Excellent for specialty, high-end models from individual sellers. More limited inventory.
- Thrift Stores - Digging can yield low-priced finds but condition varies. Try Goodwill, Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul.
- Antique Shops - Knowledgeable about collectability and quality but higher prices.
- Estate Sales - Allows you to inspect condition firsthand. Cash only. Early arrival suggested.
Cast a wide net using both online and local, brick-and-mortar sources to uncover your perfect vintage percolator.
FAQs
Does a vintage percolator make good tasting coffee?
Yes, vintage percolators can definitely brew flavorful, aromatic coffee. The percolation process evenly saturates the grounds and extracts a robust, full-bodied flavor. Proper technique, fresh beans, and an clean, seasoned percolator all help achieve great taste.
How does a percolator work?
A percolator uses a cyclic process of percolating (recirculating) hot water through the coffee grounds to extract flavor. Cold water in the bottom chamber is heated. This forces it up a vertical tube into a top chamber holding the ground coffee. The water saturates the grounds and gravity pulls the brewed coffee back into the lower chamber. This percolation cycle repeats until the desired strength is reached.
How do you clean a vintage coffee percolator?
Disassemble the percolator and clean all parts with hot, soapy water. Use a non-abrasive scrub sponge on the metal pieces. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners. Rinse thoroughly. Remove mineral deposits by filling the percolator with equal parts water and white vinegar and briefly simmering on the stove. Rinse again before brewing.
What is the best way to season a new vintage percolator?
Seasoning prepares the metal components for great tasting coffee by removing manufacturing residue. Run several full clean water cycles and then brew plain salt water. Let the salt water sit for 15 minutes before discarding. Finally, brew plain water to rinse. Your percolator is now ready for coffee!
How often should you clean a percolator?
Ideally, fully clean a percolator after every 3-5 uses. Quick rinses after each use help prevent residue buildup. More frequent full cleanings can prolong the percolator's life and keep coffee tasting fresh.
How much coffee does a vintage percolator use?
Most standard percolators brew using 2-3 tablespoons of ground coffee per cup of water. So a 6 cup percolator will use 12-18 tablespoons of grounds. Adjust coffee amounts based on your preferred strength and grinding coarseness. Too many grounds can create an over-extracted, bitter brew.
What is the ideal coffee grind for a percolator?
Use a medium grind, similar to what you would use in a drip coffee machine. Too fine will create cloudy coffee and too coarse will result in weak flavor. Aim for consistency between drip and espresso grind sizes. You can adjust grind coarseness to taste.
How long does a percolator take to brew coffee?
Brew time ranges from 10-20 minutes depending on the capacity, heat source, and perking rate. Electric percolators average 10-15 minutes while stovetop models take 15-20 minutes. Larger capacities also extend overall brew time. The perking action itself occurs quite quickly.
Conclusion
A vintage coffee percolator is a wonderful way to experience coffee's aromatic, robust flavor profile.
Although coffee tastes and brewing methods have modernized over the decades, percolators remain viable appliances that fuse nostalgia with customizable results.
They invite you to slow down and really engage with the brewing process.
Resources:
- On Coffee Makers - This website provides information on the value of vintage coffee pots, including Pyrex glass coffee pots.
- Homegrounds - This article explains how a coffee percolator works, including the different heat sources used in percolators.
- HomeSteady - This website provides vintage percolator instructions, including how to measure coffee for a full pot.
- The Coffee Guru - This comprehensive guide includes information on where to find vintage coffee maker parts on online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, and Amazon.
- Retro Renovation - This article provides instructions on how to transform a vintage coffee percolator into a table lamp.