The name "VBM" carries the initials of its three founders. The "V" stands for Valente, from Carlo Ernesto Valente. The "B" represents Mario Biancolini, the former general manager of foreign sales at Faema, and the "M" stands for Giorgio Merigi, who was Faema’s former national sales manager. Together, these three brought their combined experience from Faema to form VBM, aiming to make high-quality espresso machines.
In the 1980s, a significant change occurred when Pietro Osnato joined VBM as a shareholder. Osnato pushed for a new strategy that led to the creation of models like the VBM Dosatronic, the VBM Replica, and the relaunch of the VBM Domobar Super.
VBM has produced several popular espresso machine models over the years, especially in the domestic market. Below is an overview of some of their most well-known models:
The original VBM Domobar is one of the brand’s most recognizable models. It features a fixed steam tube and red electrical buttons integrated into the stainless steel front panel, which also houses the pump pressure gauge and indicator lights.
This model includes a water tank at the back, supplying water to the boiler via an Ulka vibration pump. The boiler is available in either 110V or 230V versions, providing around 1350W of power. At the front of the machine is the iconic E61-style brewing group, operated manually. The mechanism on the side controls the internal components and activates the pump, ensuring a traditional espresso brewing experience.
The Domobar Super model comes in two main configurations: a dual boiler version and a heat exchanger (HX) version, with the latter being the most common. These models are also available in two further subcategories: the Manuale and Elletronica versions. The Manuale models use the traditional E61 brewing group, manually operated, while the Elletronica models are equipped with a solenoid valve for electronic control.
VBM espresso machines often use generic parts, meaning some components can be found in other espresso machine brands as well. However, the VBM brand has a range of unique parts specifically designed for their machines.
One such part is the portafilter. The portafilters used on VBM machines are standard in design, based on the Faema E61 brewing group. These portafilters feature a 90-degree ear orientation and a 5.5mm ear thickness, making them compatible with many other espresso machines.
At Brooks, we offer a wide selection of spare parts for Vibiemme espresso machines. On our website, you can explore two search options: the Vibiemme Model page and the Vibiemme Category page.
If you’re unable to locate the parts you need, simply contact us, and we’ll do our best to assist you in finding the right components for your VBM espresso machine.
VBM’s legacy is rooted in its founders’ expertise and their desire to continue pushing the boundaries of espresso machine technology. With iconic models like the Domobar and the Domobar Super, VBM remains a respected name in both the domestic and commercial espresso machine markets. Whether you need replacement parts or are exploring VBM’s extensive product line, Brooks is here to help ensure your machine continues to perform at its best.
