AROMA-3

I had an aluminium grinder purchased from Off Ya Tree about 15 years go that really needed replacing. I was researching grinders and came across Old Mate Designs.

The things I appreciated about this grinder is that it was made out of a single chunk of high quality stainless steel, precision machined, in Australia, made by someone who went through many iterations to improve his product after listening to his customers.

I was hesitant to purchase one as the price tag was a little bit more than what I was thinking of paying, but I figured to go ahead because if what I was seeing about it was true, then this would be the last grinder I would have to purchase. So in October of last year I purchased the 3 piece without the magnetic lid, as well as the bearing removal tool.

Due to the business being very small, and production focussing on quality products, from ordering to shipping took a month. It was well communicated at the time that there were delays to orders due to a backlogso I found no issue with waiting.

The grinder arrived with great packaging and from first opening it I could tell that it was extremely well made. The teeth are very sharp and it's so satisfying to use with the bearing design. You can easily tell when you have finished griding as it spins so freely. The grind is also perfect for my use in glass with water, paper or vape.

After having it for a year with daily use I can honestly say the only thing that I regret about buying it is that i didn't get the spoon. I haven't cleaned it at all, except for some not quite cured properly buds put a little bit of resin on the rim between the lid and the rest which then didn't allow it to spin freely. After cleaning the rim it is back to being as smooth as it was when it was new. I haven't even changed the original bearing.

This thing is well thought out, well machined, and will definitely last a lifetime. It is well worth the price tag in my humble opinion.

Thanks to Ben and the team at Old Mate Designs.

My Aroma 3 arrived today and it’s the last grinder I will ever need or use.

I have Sharpstones, a Höj and a Qubus (which was my favorite, but gave to a family member with hand issues). So when time came to replace the qubus, Old Mate caught my eye.

This piece is better than I imagined. The weight, the machining, the design. Top notch. I purchased the bearing puller, also. So when the time comes, I can switch to another bearing set and keep on grinding. The consistency of the grind is nice and fluffy, too.

Might have to place an order for the mandala one before they’re gone.

it’s nice and well made, but as a person who is weaker and has longer nails I am physically unable to open it. wish i got without magnetic lid 🙃

I had some issues with taking the magnetic lid off and the bearings losing smoothness in the first couple of days I had this... I bought the OldMate bearing changer & some speed bearings from a skate shop.
I couldn't be happier now. I have no issues with the ergonomically designed lid, it lifts off effortlessly & it spins faster & smoother than ever.
BTW. This precision machined grinder grinds better than any grinder I've used & I own seven.

Just like the title.

Don’t listen to the idiot one star review.