While Julie and Janet are devoted fans of the La Pavoni Europicola espresso machine, I am faithful to the classic stovetop Bialetti I have had for years. This classic espresso pot lasts forever (as long as you don't put it in the dishwasher) and is simple to use. Here's a roundup of other favorite stovetop pots; all are made from stainless steel unless noted and have a six-cup capacity.

Above: The Alessi 9090 Espresso Coffee Maker by Richard Sapper; $185 from All Modern.

Above: Designed by London- and Bologna-based Sebastian Bergne, the Maillard Stovetop espresso maker is $150 from DWR.

Above: From celebrated UK product designer Robin Levien, the Twist Moka Coffee Maker
for Legnoart (a venerable Italian company founded in 1946) is stainless steel with a porcelain top; $111.60 at Amazon.

Above: Bialetti Class Black Espresso Maker
; $51.94 at Amazon.

Above: Pina Coffee Maker by Piero Lissoni for Alessi; aluminum with Bakelite handle for $105 at Unica Home.

Above: The industry workhorse; the six-cup Bialetti
in aluminum is $24.99 from Amazon.

Above: Designed in 1968, the Giannina Espresso Coffee Pot is a classic; €103.40 at Manufactum.

Above: Bodum Chambord Espresso Stovetop Maker; $79.95 from Espresso Zone.

Above: The Avanti Art Deco Espresso Maker is AU$82.95. We like the look of this one, but can only source it in Australia (shipping charges will apply).

Above: Altho Stainless Steel Espresso Maker; $100.25 at Vieco's Kitchen.

Above: Designed by UK designer Oliver Hemming for the Sixty-Six Collection, the Sixty-Six Espresso Maker is $107 from Unica Home.