Rocket Espresso Giotto Cronometro V Overview

Another stunner from Rocket Espresso, the Giotto Cronometro V is a heat exchange espresso machine that combines high performance with Rocket’s high style. The Cronometro version of the Giotto features a hidden shot timer just above the power switch with a digital readout that appears when the pump is activated and disappears when it's off, blending in with the stainless steel housing.

Features and Performance

As with all of Rocket’s espresso machines, the Giotto Cronometro V boasts awesome aesthetic elements like its bevelled side panels; tapered, height adjustable feet; and easy-grip gear design steam and hot water knobs featuring Rocket’s signature “R.” Said knobs are non-compression and slide easily open, for powerful steaming. Rocket Espresso’s patented cool-touch technology ensures that the steam wand is safe to use, since only the nozzle gets hot. The Giotto Cronometro V is capable of brewing and steaming simultaneously, making it an excellent machine for producing several milk-based drinks, one right after another.

The traditional E61 group head is present on the Giotto Cronometro V to ensure a temperature stable path for the brew water, by syphoning hot water from the boiler, through the group, and back. Rocket’s E61 has been thoughtfully reimagined to include a dual pre-infusion system, made up of a static chamber and mechanical working piston, both of which work together to ensure the puck is thoroughly saturated for the best possible extraction.

Rocket was also one of the first manufacturers to include a PID temperature controller on their heat exchange machines, of which the Giotto is one. This controller, hidden behind the drip tray so as not to disrupt the sleek design, keeps the temperature stable to the degree, and uses 4 settings to accommodate different roast styles. This innovation on Rocket’s part has become an industry standard on many HX machines these days.

Internally, the Giotto Cronometro V houses a large 1.8 L copper boiler and 1200 watt heating element, and, integrated sensors monitor the boiler and reservoir levels for low volumes, alerting you and, if necessary, shutting off automatically so as not to let the boiler run dry. One of our favorite things about the Rocket machines are the accessories. They include a full color training guide complete with a USB thumb drive with extra content. Plus, rather than include a chintzy plastic tamper, Rocket throws in a branded metal tamper so you’re always ready to brew like a pro.

Why You Should Get It

The Giotto’s effortlessly timeless look and innovative integration of the PID make the Giotto an excellent addition to any home barista’s kitchen. If you love Rocket’s style, but prefer a smaller model, the Appartamento slides into any space at just 9” wide; for even greater functionality, take a look at the Giotto Evoluzione V2, which can be plumbed directly into a water line.