Shades of Coffee

Shades of Coffee: modification kits for the Gaggia Classic

Shades of Coffee is a British online retailer specialising in parts, modification kits and accessories for the Gaggia Classic range of espresso machines. Its catalogue is organised by machine generation, so buyers can select the version they own and see the products that fit it. The company presents itself as the home of Gaggia Classic mods and accessories.

Kits by machine generation

The shop divides its modification range into three groups. One covers machines made after 2018, listed as the Gaggia Classic Pro, Classic Evo Pro, Classic 2019, Classic Evo 2023/2024 and Classic E24. A second group serves pre-2018 machines, described as the "Original" Gaggia Classic. A third covers the Gaggia Classic GT. Within these groups the catalogue includes PID kits, OPV kits, combined PID and OPV kits, TopBox units and spare parts for PID and OPV installations.

PID, OPV and TopBox bundles

Among the featured products are TopBox bundles that combine a PID, a pressure gauge and flow control in a single package, offered in versions for the Classic Pro, Classic 2019, Classic 2023/2024, Classic Evo and Classic E24, and separately for the original Classic of 2018 or earlier. The OPV spring mod kit is sold in a standard version containing just the springs. The company warns that some sellers attempt to copy its OPV kits with products that, in its words, do not perform properly.

Portafilters and hardware

The portafilter range includes bottomless and spouted models, plus handles sold on their own. A bottomless portafilter with a smooth walnut wooden handle is listed as suitable for any Gaggia Classic model and some other Gaggia machines. The company also offers a redesigned steam valve presented as the valve the Gaggia Classic should always have had, a replacement switchbank recreated for the original Classic after the original Gaggia part became unavailable, and an extended slim drip tray with a large grate and long vent tube, vacuum moulded in black ABS plastic and designed to leave room for scales.

Barista tools and accessories

Beyond machine parts, the catalogue lists barista tools such as a blind shaker for redistributing coffee grounds, a digital milk thermometer, the CronoQube automatic digital shot timer, a single-hole steam tip called "The One" for the Classic Pro, Evo and E24, and precision milk jugs in 400 ml (12 oz) and 600 ml (20 oz) sizes with a thermometer hole. Gift bundles and Shades49 gift vouchers are also available.

Stock, currency and trade accounts

At the time of writing, the site displayed a notice that steam valves were out of stock, with more stock expected in early November, and invited customers to sign up for stock notifications on the product page. Prices are shown in a selectable display currency, with the delivery country chosen at checkout; the choice also determines whether prices include UK VAT in pounds sterling or exclude it for other destinations. The site offers account registration, including a separate trade account registration, and a wishlist.