The moka pot is perfect. Just like all the other aluminum moka pots, do not put in a dishwasher, do not use hash detergents, cycle through 6 pots of coffee that you do not drink to break it in, the dulling of the finish is normal just like all other aluminum moka pots. Read the care instructions that come with it on how to care for your moka pot.You can have coffee or you can have great coffee served beautifully. I love the artistic look of all Alessi products and this did not disappoint. It's a work of art and made so well.I've been using coffee percolators my whole life and this one is by far the best one. Not only is it beautiful to look at receiving compliments from everyone who sees it, but it also produces the best tasting coffe from any device in my collection. I did the side by side blind taste test (no cream or sugar to obfuscate) using the same coffee grounds on 4 different percolators (one on each stove burner) and the Pulcina had the best flavor among the group. Flavor was full, great crema, with no acrid or burnt taste like others. Do yourself a favor and buy this percolator if you are a coffee aficionado or simply enjoy a good cup of joe.Does not disappoint in looks and perfect function. I have the 3-cup model and just needed the small one to make a set. I felt guilty but that was replaced with joy. This will last a lifetime.I have used mocha pots on and off for many years. This one is beautiful and highly rated. The first week or so that I used it the coffee was excellent. I had a nice slow stream of coffee coming from the Brewing spout with lots of crema. Then gradually, with nothing else changing, the coffee began to not brew as easily and when it came out, it came out in spurts rather than a steady stream. I tried adjusting grind size, how I loaded the basket, everything that I could read about or think of and nothing changed. The only fix that I could find was to possibly add a piece of Teflon tape around the outside of the basket which I am not willing to do. I don't know if this unit is defective or the basket does not fit properly but it does not work now. I am about a week too late to return it, otherwise I would.Easy to use !Thank you very muchBest purchase yet! A classic Italian design and a staple to any coffee drinkers kitchen.Just be cautious and let every part air dry as to prevent mold or rust build up. Do not use soap when cleaning it otherwise soap residue will get trapped in the filter and it takes a while with several thorough rinses to get it out.Also, keep in mind this coffee maker does not make any loud distiguibale sound when ready. So when in another room you may not hear any indicator and only when in close proximity will you hear the coffee gurgle and rise up when done.The price point is perfect. These are meant to last you a very long time. The first one I owned lasted 10 years until I left the stove on with the coffee grounds still inside. Completely ruined after that and I had to throw it away. Just don't make the same mistake I did!Very happy with this purchase.Amazing coffee and design.Pulcinotta needs the right care (never put her in the dishwasher) and if you want a good coffee never wash the inside with dish liquid. Just rinse her with plain water, and your coffee will get a bit better every day.Still dialling in the right grind and timing for this, no info with instructions but appears to hold around 13-15g coffee depending on grind setting and 150ml water. Output is about 70ml so three espresso shots is about right. I'm preheating the lower section with boiled water to reduce the risk of bitterness.No issue with cleaning, instructions are very clear on how to and how not to treat this product. Very easy to clean. Just don't stick it in the dishwasher-its aluminium.Update: Setting 7 on the Wilfa Uniform and 14g seems to be the sweet spot for my taste.Great price very fast delivery, but not usable as a coffee maker due to the excessive corrosion within the boiling pot, and the filter funnel, absolutely gutted, it is however rather beautiful to look at but that’s all at present. So Still need a small coffee maker.I have been delighted with the earlier 3 Alessi coffee makers - Pina range - and needed a new one so bought this. After 1 wash it looks like it is really old. The entire shine has disappeared and the hands get dirty when you hold it. Please do not buy and the Pina range after 10 years still has a bright shiny look to it. It’s the one to to getAs an addict of buying espresso pots, this caught my eye immediately, so the dog decided to treat me for Christmas. Was not disappointed! Beautiful pot that makes the perfect espresso every time, also comes packaged in a beautiful box as well so would make an excellent pressie for any coffee lover. It was also £30 cheaper than eBay and had the red handle (wife's favourite colour) ideal size also for 2/3 small "power esspressos". Highly recommended