Brew Guide
All About the Chemex Coffee Maker
Elegant, timeless, and deceptively simple. Discover the history and art of brewing with the iconic Chemex.
The Basics
A Coffeemaker Like No Other
The Chemex is a coffeemaker with an elegant, timeless design. Its hourglass shape and sturdy wooden handle are instantly recognizable—a fixture on kitchen counters, in design museums, and across coffee shops around the world. Whether you're new to specialty coffee or a seasoned home barista, the Chemex makes it easy to brew big batches of single-origin coffees that are ideal for sharing.
What sets the Chemex apart is its proprietary double-bonded paper filter, which is thicker than standard pour-over filters. This removes more oils and sediment from the brew, producing an exceptionally clean, bright cup that highlights the unique characteristics of each coffee you pour through it.
Chemex at a Glance
Invented
1941 by Peter Schlumbohm
Material
Borosilicate glass
Sizes
3-cup to 13-cup
Filter
Double-bonded paper
The Story
A Brief History of the Chemex
The Chemex was invented in 1941 by Peter Schlumbohm, a German-born chemist and inventor who held over 300 patents during his lifetime. His chemistry background is evident in every detail of the design—from the double-bonded paper filter engineered for optimal coffee extraction to the borosilicate glass hourglass shape inspired by scientific laboratory glassware.
Schlumbohm's goal was simple: create a coffeemaker that brewed a perfect cup every time, looked beautiful on the table, and required no electricity or complicated machinery. The result was so successful that the Chemex earned a permanent spot in the Museum of Modern Art's design collection—one of only a handful of household objects to receive that distinction.
Key Milestones
- • 1941 — Peter Schlumbohm invents the Chemex
- • 1943 — Recognized by the Museum of Modern Art
- • 300+ patents — Schlumbohm's prolific career as chemist and inventor
- • 70+ years — Design remains largely unchanged
Built to Last
A Design That Never Gets Old
The Chemex has remained largely unchanged for over 70 years—a testament to the strength of the original design. The classic Chemex on sale today is essentially the same brewer Schlumbohm introduced in the 1940s. Available in sizes from 3-cup to 13-cup, there's a Chemex for every kitchen.
Its enduring appeal comes from the perfect balance of form and function. The hourglass shape isn't just beautiful—it creates the ideal brewing chamber. The wooden collar and leather tie aren't just decorative—they serve as a heat-resistant handle. Every element has a purpose, and nothing has been added that doesn't need to be there.
Borosilicate Glass
Non-porous, heat-resistant laboratory glass that won't absorb flavors or odors. The same material used in scientific glassware—chosen by Schlumbohm for its purity.
Double-Bonded Filter
Thicker than standard filters, removing more oils and fine sediment. Produces an exceptionally clean, bright cup that lets single-origin character shine through.
Wooden Collar & Tie
A heat-resistant handle made from polished wood and rawhide leather. Functional and beautiful—no plastic, no silicone, just natural materials.
On Screen
The Chemex in Pop Culture
The Chemex's iconic silhouette has made it a favorite prop for filmmakers and set designers looking to signal sophistication and good taste. Its appearances in film and television have cemented its status as more than just a coffeemaker—it's a cultural object.
From Russia With Love
James Bond himself brews with a Chemex in this 1963 classic—proof that even 007 appreciates good pour-over technique.
Mad Men
Don Draper's Chemex sits on his kitchen counter, perfectly capturing the mid-century modern aesthetic the show is known for.
Rosemary's Baby
The Chemex appears in Mia Farrow's apartment, an era-appropriate detail that adds authenticity to the 1968 film.
Learn to Brew
Chemex Brew Guides
Ready to brew with your Chemex? We've put together detailed guides covering everything from basic technique to iced coffee recipes and grind adjustments. Whether you're a beginner or looking to fine-tune your process, there's a guide for you.
Common Questions
Chemex Coffee Maker FAQ
What is a Chemex coffee maker?
The Chemex is an elegant, hourglass-shaped glass coffee maker invented in 1941 by Peter Schlumbohm. It uses a proprietary double-bonded paper filter to produce an exceptionally clean, bright cup of coffee. Its timeless design has earned it a place in the Museum of Modern Art's permanent collection.
Who invented the Chemex?
The Chemex was invented in 1941 by Peter Schlumbohm, a German-born chemist and inventor who held over 300 patents during his lifetime. His chemistry background inspired the double-bonded paper filter for optimal extraction, and the borosilicate glass hourglass shape was inspired by scientific laboratory glassware.
What sizes does the Chemex come in?
The Chemex is available in sizes ranging from 3-cup to 13-cup. The classic design has remained largely unchanged for over 70 years, and the Chemex on sale today is essentially the same as the original from the 1940s.
Why is the Chemex good for single-origin coffee?
The Chemex's thick double-bonded paper filter removes oils and sediment, producing an exceptionally clean cup that highlights the unique flavor characteristics of single-origin coffees. It's also easy to brew large batches, making it ideal for sharing specialty coffee with friends and family.
Has the Chemex appeared in pop culture?
Yes, the Chemex has made numerous pop culture appearances. James Bond uses one in From Russia With Love, Don Draper has one in Mad Men, and it appears in Rosemary's Baby. Its iconic design has made it a symbol of refined taste in film and television.
Brew Something Beautiful
Fresh roasted, single origin specialty coffee — perfectly suited for your Chemex. New selections available regularly.
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