About The Roaster
Restored & Working Once Again In all its Glory
This rare German-made masterpiece—crafted by Probat, the original inventors of the commercial coffee roaster—was discovered tucked away in a humble farmer’s barn in Serbia, a sleeping relic of a bygone era. Under the expert guidance of David Cornell, former head restoration manager for Jay Leno’s esteemed antique collection, it was lovingly brought back to life. Every component was carefully disassembled, restored, and reassembled with reverence—preserving its original patina, character, and mechanical integrity. A true resurrection of legacy, this roaster stands once again as a testament to old-world craftsmanship and enduring innovation.
Historic
The coffee world has seen over 120 years of rich tradition—but never a discovery quite like this. Unearthed from the past and still fully operational, this extraordinary artifact stands as a living piece of coffee history. Built by none other than Probat—the original inventors of the commercial coffee roaster—this rare machine isn’t just a survivor; it’s a symbol of the industry’s very beginnings. To find such a legendary brand, in working condition, is a once-in-a-lifetime moment that rewrites what we thought possible in the legacy of coffee.
Current Custodian
Not only is this rare coffee roasting time capsule remarkably complete in every detail, it is presently in the care of seasoned coffee craftsman Todd Millar—whose dedication to the art spans over three decades. Since 1989, Millar has been roasting coffee with precision and passion, while also restoring and handcrafting vintage coffee equipment. Under his stewardship, this historic roaster is not merely preserved—it is alive, fired weekly, and continuing its legacy in the hands of a true master of the trade.
Share The History
This extraordinary heritage piece was never destined to gather dust—it was forged to be shared with the world.
