Overview
The Ariete 1389 Classica is a retro-styled semi-automatic from the Italian appliance maker known for vintage-inspired kitchen products. The pearl white and copper color scheme with chrome accents evokes Italian café culture of the 1950s, making the 1389 as much a kitchen décor piece as a functional espresso machine. The 15-bar pump delivers adequate extraction through a pressurized portafilter, and the Panarello steam wand produces basic milk froth. The compact dimensions and light weight suit small Italian and European kitchens. While performance is modest, the Ariete 1389 succeeds as a lifestyle product that brings retro Italian charm to the daily coffee ritual at an affordable price.
It features a thermoblock boiler system made of aluminum. The vibratory pump delivers 15.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction. It uses a Proprietary group head.
Priced at $130, the Ariete 1389 Classica is designed for budget-conscious beginners and casual coffee drinkers. As a semi-automatic machine, it gives you control over the brewing process while handling pressure and temperature automatically.
In terms of build quality, the Ariete 1389 Classica is a substantial machine, weighing in at 3.8 kg, manufactured in Italy, drawing 850W of power. With dimensions of 215 x 245 x 280 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. The built-in water reservoir holds 900 ml, making it easy to set up anywhere in your kitchen.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Manufactured in Italy, known for quality espresso machine engineering
- Well-regarded in the home espresso community for its reliability in its price bracket
Cons
- No PID temperature control — requires temperature surfing for consistent results
- Thermoblock heating may not match the temperature stability of traditional boiler designs
- Vibratory pump can be noisy and may not last as long as rotary alternatives under heavy use
- Non-standard 51mm portafilter limits third-party basket and accessory options
- Panarello steam wand limits microfoam quality compared to a traditional commercial wand
Full Specifications
| Brand | Ariete |
|---|---|
| Model | Ariete 1389 Classica |
| Category | Semi-Auto |
| Status | Current |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Year Introduced | 2017 |
| Boiler Type | Thermoblock |
| Boiler Material | Aluminum |
| Pump Type | Vibratory |
| Pump Pressure | 15.0 bar |
| PID Control | No |
| Pre-Infusion | No |
| Pressure Profiling | No |
| Flow Control | No |
| Group Head | Proprietary |
| Portafilter Diameter | 51 mm |
| Steam Wand | Panarello |
| Water Source | Reservoir |
| Reservoir Capacity | 900 ml |
| Cup Warmer | No |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 215 x 245 x 280 mm |
| Weight | 3.8 kg (8.4 lbs) |
| Wattage | 850 W |
| Voltage | 220V |
| MSRP | $130 |
Our Verdict
The Ariete 1389 Classica from Ariete is a capable machine in its category. At this entry-level price point, it offers a solid introduction to home espresso. Remember that the grinder matters at least as much as the machine — budget accordingly. Consider your workflow needs (straight espresso vs. milk drinks), counter space, and grinder pairing when making your final decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ariete 1389 Classica good for beginners?
The Ariete 1389 Classica is a solid entry point for beginners at $130. It's affordable enough to learn on without a major financial commitment. Pair it with a capable grinder and you'll be making genuine espresso quickly.
How often does the Ariete 1389 Classica need maintenance?
Regular maintenance includes daily backflushing (for machines with solenoid valves), weekly cleaning of the group head and portafilter, and descaling every 1-3 months depending on water hardness. Using filtered water significantly reduces scale buildup and extends machine life.
What grinder should I pair with the Ariete 1389 Classica?
At this price point, budget at least as much for a grinder as the machine itself. Popular choices include the Eureka Mignon series ($200-$400), Baratza Sette 270 ($300-$400), or a hand grinder like the 1Zpresso JX Pro ($160) for excellent grind quality on a budget.
Recommended Grinder Pairings for the Ariete 1389 Classica
A good grinder is essential for getting the most out of your espresso machine. Here are some grinders that pair well at this price level:
Kinu M47 Classic
Hand Grinder
Baratza Virtuoso+
Conical Burr
Fellow Tally Pro Precision Scale & Grinder
Conical Burr