The unit is very beautiful and efficient in making espresso. Will last for decades if you take care of it. Espresso is done in about 3-5 minutes. I like the fact that the unit comes completely apart for proper cleaning and is made from stainless steel. Only exception to this is that the inside water compartment has a rust proof coating that does eventually wear off, but the solution is to simply clean it after you use it, or scrub it with steel wool once in while. The included gasket lasted about 6 months under normal everyday use. Very nice unit. I owned it for about 1 year, but I have stopped drinking coffee now.