Achille Gaggia is the man responsible for inventing the modern espresso machine. In 1938 Achille invented a system that forced steam through the coffee grounds at a constant high pressure. It is this high pressure which produces the distinctive flavour and crema of espresso coffee. Achille Gaggia designed this first coffee machine to be used in his own coffee shop.Achille Gaggia formed the Gaggia company in 1948, deciding to capitalise on his invention and commercialise the production of his espresso machines. For the first years Gaggia desgined and built espresso machines to be used commercially in cafes and coffee shops. In 1977, Gaggia made the decision to enter the domestic market with the original Baby Gaggia. From day one, the Baby Gaggia achieved massive success throughout Italy and thus Gaggia have continued to expand their domestic range.From the traditional lever operated machines to the unbelievably clever super-automatic machines, Gaggia has around 20 coffee machines in it's domestic range at present. With the touch of a single button the super-automatic machines will quite literally produce a cup of espresso with you having to lift a finger, hence the phrase "bean to cup".Although the Gaggia brand is now owned By Saeco International Group, which is itself a part of Philips, every Gaggia espresso machine is still manufactured at the Robecco sul Naviglio factory in Milan.For over 50 years Gaggia have been developing the way in which we drink coffee. Using top quality materials and the finest craftsman has ensured that Gaggia maintain their world renowned reputation. Through this vast experience allied with innovation and "italian" style af automatic coffee machines, Gaggia continue to manufacture some of the most stunning looking espresso machines on the market today. If you are serious about your caffiene and are looking for an espresso machine that will make coffee just how you like it, then there is a Gaggia coffee machine out there for you.