Overview
The Nuova Simonelli Oscar II brings genuine commercial pedigree to the home kitchen, coming from the same company that produces the Victoria Arduino and Aurelia machines found in the world best specialty cafés. The Oscar II uses a generous copper heat exchanger boiler system with a massive 2.2-liter capacity, providing excellent thermal stability and virtually unlimited steam capacity — a level of performance that smaller single boiler machines simply cannot match. The heat exchanger design allows simultaneous brewing and steaming, making it practical for preparing multiple milk drinks without waiting between operations. The 58mm commercial portafilter and professional steam wand are identical in specification to those found on Nuova Simonelli commercial machines, providing an authentic café experience at home. The soft pre-infusion system built into the group head ensures even saturation of the coffee puck before full extraction pressure is applied. The Oscar II can be plumbed directly to a water line for ultimate convenience, or it can run from its 2.3-liter reservoir for portable use. The machine is available in multiple colors and features a built-in cup warmer. For home baristas who want commercial-grade build quality and brewing performance from a company with deep professional roots, the Oscar II delivers authenticity.
It features a heat exchanger boiler system made of copper with a 2200 ml capacity. The vibratory pump delivers 15.0 bars of pressure for optimal extraction. It uses a Standard 58mm group head.
Priced at $1,500, the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II is designed for dedicated prosumers who demand professional-grade equipment. The heat exchanger design provides steam-on-demand while maintaining brew temperature stability — a great middle ground between single and dual boiler machines.
In terms of build quality, the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II is a substantial machine, weighing in at 20.0 kg, manufactured in Italy, drawing 1400W of power. With dimensions of 280 x 420 x 380 mm (W×D×H), make sure you have adequate counter space. It offers both reservoir and direct plumbing options for maximum flexibility.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Heat exchanger provides steam on demand while maintaining stable brew temperature
- Standard 58mm portafilter is compatible with a wide range of third-party baskets and accessories
- Dual water source (reservoir and direct plumb) offers maximum installation flexibility
- Built-in cup warmer keeps your cups at optimal temperature
- Manufactured in Italy, known for quality espresso machine engineering
Cons
- No PID temperature control — requires temperature surfing for consistent results
- Vibratory pump can be noisy and may not last as long as rotary alternatives under heavy use
- No pre-infusion feature, which is expected at this price point
Full Specifications
| Brand | Nuova Simonelli |
|---|---|
| Model | Nuova Simonelli Oscar II |
| Category | Heat Exchanger |
| Status | Current |
| Country of Origin | Italy |
| Year Introduced | 2017 |
| Boiler Type | Heat Exchanger |
| Boiler Material | Copper |
| Boiler Capacity | 2200 ml |
| Pump Type | Vibratory |
| Pump Pressure | 15.0 bar |
| PID Control | No |
| Pre-Infusion | No |
| Pressure Profiling | No |
| Flow Control | No |
| Group Head | Standard 58mm |
| Portafilter Diameter | 58 mm |
| Steam Wand | Commercial |
| Water Source | Both |
| Reservoir Capacity | 2300 ml |
| Cup Warmer | Yes |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 280 x 420 x 380 mm |
| Weight | 20.0 kg (44.1 lbs) |
| Wattage | 1400 W |
| Voltage | 120V/220V |
| MSRP | $1,500 |
Our Verdict
The Nuova Simonelli Oscar II uses a heat exchanger design — the time-tested middle ground between single and dual boiler machines. You get steam-on-demand alongside brewing, though temperature management requires more attention than a true dual boiler. HX machines reward users who learn their machine's quirks with excellent, characterful espresso.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II designed for?
The Nuova Simonelli Oscar II at $1,500 is a prosumer-grade machine designed for experienced home baristas who want near-commercial quality. It's not ideal as a first machine, but it's an excellent upgrade for those ready to invest in their espresso passion.
How does the heat exchanger work in the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II?
The heat exchanger design uses a single boiler at steam temperature, with a separate tube running through it for brew water. This allows steam-on-demand while maintaining brew temperature. It's a proven design that balances capability and simplicity.
How often does the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II 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 use with the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II?
A prosumer machine like this deserves a premium grinder. Consider the Niche Zero ($600), Eureka Mignon XL ($700), DF64 variants, or premium options like the Weber EG-1 or Lagom P64. The grinder should match or exceed the machine's capability for best results.
Is the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II worth $1,500?
The Nuova Simonelli Oscar II's value depends on your commitment to espresso. If you drink espresso daily, a quality machine pays for itself vs. cafe purchases within 6-12 months. The Nuova Simonelli Oscar II offers reliable espresso brewing and solid build quality at its price point, making it a sound investment for regular espresso drinkers.
Recommended Grinder Pairings for the Nuova Simonelli Oscar II
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: