We've put together a few thoughts in response to questions that we receive fairly regularly from customers. We've also compiled some FrancisFrancis video tutorials, which you'll discover in the hints and tips section.
Which cups should I use?
Using the correct style of cup will definately give you a better coffee experience.
Coffee Capacity Height Diameter Saucer Diameter
Espresso cup Standard Italian 9cl (90ml) 50mm 66mm 120mm
Cappuccino cup Standard Italian 25cl (250ml) 55mm 96mm 160mm
Go for espresso cups with a curved inner. As the coffee pours into the cup and comes into contact with the base, the curvature helps the coffee to release it's natural aroma and flavours. Also porcelain cups are better to drink from rather than earthenware, which tend to be thicker.
The X1 machine is not designed to take a 'mug sized' cup, the clearance from drip tray to coffee handle is aprox 80mm. The perfect CUP - it will improve your cuppa!
Why do some X1 machines take pods and ground coffee?
The latest X1 model takes ground coffee only. This model was available from Nov 2007. Prior to Nov 2007, the X1 utilised ESE pods and ground coffee. This model was known as the Classic.
After extensive UK research, FrancisFrancis concluded that the UK was a 'ground coffee' market. The resulting re-vamp of the X1 offers wonderful results, there's no compromise in providing a dual compatable solution for both pod and ground (which require different pump pressures for optimum results). One solution, one coffee style, one great taste!
Machine Timeline History
Current X1 - Ground coffee (Nov 2007 - to present)
X6 - pod only (2006 - to present)
Classic X1 brass - pod and ground - discontinued. (Apr 2004 - Apr 2008)
Classic X1 aluminium - pod and ground - discontinued. (2000-2004)
X3 Classic - pod and ground - discontinued. (2002-2008)
X3 TRIO - pod only - discontinued. (2007-2008)
X2, X4 and X5 - discontinued.
Who are FrancisFrancis? Are they an American Company?
FrancisFrancis are an Italian Company and are owned by illy - probably the most famous coffee company in the world. illy decided they wanted their own machine and commissioned architect Luca Trazi to design it, and the X1 was born. It's original looks have been tweaked a little over it's lifetime, and it's mechanics modernised, but the iconic design is still just as beautifully striking as when it was first introduced.
Can I get a replacement coffee handle for my machine?
A ground coffee kit is available for the X1 Classic machine. However, there were two incarnations of the X1 Classic. The first X1 had an aluminium boiler. In early 2004 this was improved to utilise brass workings. The brass internals retained heat more efficiently than the aluminium. When this transition took place the handles for both pod and ground were altered.
How do I know whether I've got aluminium or brass boiler in my X1?
Why have prices gone up?
The global financial climate has affected the basic cost of constructing the X1. Steel prices have shot up (FFs are made from steel not plastic) and the pound has been hit really big against the euro - 16% weaker Oct 08 to Mar 09 (FF are an Italian company who sell based on the Euro). We endeavour to keep your price down by committing to large quantities of stock. We did this pre price rise in Feb 2009, however please be aware, as this stock is sold, new stock is coming in to us at a much, much higher premium, and as such prices on the website have to increase. Retail prices have increased from £431.00 to £517.20 since February 1st 2009. A rise of £86.20, our 'new stock' sales price has increased by £50, and we have taken the hit on the remainder.
What warranty do you get with FrancisFrancis?
FrancisFrancis comes with a two year warranty. Please click on warranty information for more details.
What's the difference between X1 and X7?
The X1 is the original machine, featured in many TV programmes, films, magazines and articles. It's the iconic stylish, coffee machine that people associate with FrancisFrancis. It is made from steel. The X1 is ground coffee only.
The X6 is a more 'budget' machine. It is made predominantly from ABS plastic and possesses a design inspired by the X1. The X6 uses iperespresso capsule pods only.
Why use illy coffee?
For nearly 70 years, illy has studied the art and science of espresso, to create a product of consistent quality. illy own the FrancisFrancis brand. A coffee company that manufactures a coffee machine - that's got to be a good sign. They specialise in coffee - they know what they are talking about.
Every day, 5 million cups of illy coffee are enjoyed around the world. It's impressive, if you consider that illycaffè produces a single, exclusive blend of the finest 100% Arabica beans, meticulously selected and expertly roasted. Whether it's pod, ground or bean and wherever you are in the world you can experience the same aroma, distinctive consistent taste and exceptional freshness of illy coffee in your cup.
For the current X1 model use illy coffee, in standard (red), decaf (green) or dark roast (black) for the ultimate coffee experience.
If you own a X1 Classic machine a X6 TRIO or a X3 TRIO then ESE pods are for you. ESE pods are 7gram servings of ground coffee, compacted and sealed between two layers of filter paper. illy ESE pods are now individually sealed to keep fresh for longer.
Did you know? The better the coffee, the LESS caffeine there is. Arabica contains 1.1%-1.7% caffeine, instant coffee uses Robusta which contains 2%-4.5% caffeine.
Whether it's pods or ground, normal, dark roast or decaffeinated, reach for a can of Illy. One cup and you’ll understand why illy is the choice of 4-star chefs, culinary experts and coffee connoisseurs.
Your site says an item is out of stock, but i can still order. Why?
The majority of the time, we have stock of all colours and models. Every so often a variant is delayed at the FrancisFrancis factory, causing a UK shortage of product. We make it possible for you to order to enable to log an order with us. If you do place an order and it's out of stock you will pay the advertised price.
If you do place an order when the website states out of stock, new stock due soon, you have to complete the process and log your payment. If we receive updates from the factory detailing a longer delay than expected we will contact you. A full refund can be given or we can retain your order, whatever suits you best. Rest assured, this doesn't happen very often, and we always have your best interests at heart.
I need some help creating a better coffee.
Please view our guide on this.
Available soon.
I have a problem with my machine.
Please visit the warranty pages
Do you have any user tips and tricks?
Please visit Hints and Tips
