New York, NY, February 9, 2006 — In tests conducted by the Hammacher Schlemmer Institute, one thermal coffee maker was named The Best for its ease of use, thermal retention, and the taste quality of the coffee it brewed.

“The Hammacher Schlemmer Institute was created 23 years ago to regularly test products according to rigid methodology and standards. In the case of this test, we conducted tests of 12 coffee makers for heat retention at 30-minute intervals, ease-of-use to determine programming, brewing, and cleaning facility, and quality of coffee in blind taste samplings” said Tara-Ann Dugan, Supervisor of Product Research at the Hammacher Schlemmer Institute. “Product testing helps customers make informed buying decisions. The Best Thermal Coffee Maker is one in a long history of products that survived the rigorous tests of the Institute to earn the title, The Best.”

During the heat test, this coffee maker maintained over 90% of its peak temperature four hours after brewing. Ten cups of coffee can be brewed in six minutes, and a “stop and serve” feature allows the carafe to be removed to pour a cup during brewing without dripping. The carafe’s superior thermal retention prevents the kind of cooking that is common with hot-plate coffee makers, thereby preserving the brew’s original fresh taste. Test panelists commented on the “nice balance” and “smooth” aroma and taste.

“In addition to its superior test performance,” adds Dugan, “the coffee maker has convenient features such as a 24-hour programmable clock timer. We’re confident that this is The Best Thermal Coffee Maker available.”

The coffee maker uses #2 and #4 cone filters, and is available from Hammacher Schlemmer for $99.95. For more information, please visit www.hammacher.com or call 1-800-543-3366.

Hammacher Schlemmer is America's longest running catalog, offering the Best, the Only, and the Unexpected since 1848. The company provides unique products that solve problems or represent the only one of their kind, and backs its products with a rather famous Lifetime Guarantee of Complete Satisfaction. Hammacher Schlemmer's innovative offerings are available through its catalog, online at www.hammacher.com, and at its famed flagship store on East 57th Street in New York City.