Olympia Express

Overview

Olympia Express produces premium lever-operated espresso machines and grinders, emphasizing craftsmanship, durable materials like chrome steel tanks, and reliability for both commercial and home use. The company maintains a niche position in the high-end espresso market, known for its Swiss-made quality exported globally from Europe to Asia and the Americas.²⁴

History

Olympia Express was founded in 1928 by Luigi Bresaola in Chiasso, Switzerland, where he pioneered espresso machines for cafes and restaurants.²⁴ In the 1960s, the company expanded into home-use machines, which gained international success due to their compact size, quality, and reliability.² After challenges in the 1980s and 1990s, it was restructured in 2007 under Olympia Express AG in the canton of Glarus, continuing its focus on premium espresso equipment.²

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured in the mountain canton of Glarus, Switzerland, adhering to traditional craftsmanship principles.² Production is in-house, prioritizing perfect materials and workmanship, such as exclusive use of chrome steel tanks since the 1990s for durability and flavor neutrality.²

Notable Products

• Cremina - Iconic manual lever espresso machine for home use, known for reliability and compact design.
• La Pavoni-style levers - Professional lever-operated machines designed for cafes with meticulous detailing.
• Chrome steel tank models - Early adopters of durable, flavor-neutral tanks in premium espresso machines.

Reputation

Olympia Express is regarded by enthusiasts for its heritage lever machines, superior build quality, and unwavering commitment to craftsmanship over decades.²⁴ Professionals value the reliability and material choices like chrome steel, though the niche focus and historical disruptions may limit broader awareness.² Some note the 1980s-1990s challenges but praise the 2007 revival under new ownership.²