Before I begin, let me first states that.... Regardless of the recalls (and I use the plural because there were two) these percolators are still a Collectable Item. I, myself, who cannot stand percolated coffee, own 19 percolators of various models and patterns... (How's THAT for irony). I hardly ever use any of them, though I occasionally use my P-280-EP as a water boiler. (which was a recalled model BTW). The point is, that they are of paramount importance to collectors, intact.
The 1st recall.... 1976
It was brought to Corning's attention in 1974, that there was an issue with the E-1210 Electromatic 10 cup Percolator. The metal collar, which was attached with Epoxy, had a tendency to separate from the pyroceram pot after repeated heating & cooling cycles. Corning stopped production in September of 1974, redesigned the pot at the attachment point, improved their epoxy curing procedures, then returned the model to production. But, by 1976 it had become apparent that the issue with these pots was a little more wide spread than originally predicted.
How do you tell if you have an E-1210 that is safe for use? There is a number etched on the metal band to the right of the handle.... The numbers vary slightly, but ANY number means it is NOT a recalled pot.
Production of Percolators dwindled off in 1978... Simply because the auto-drip coffee maker had taken over... After all, America was gearing up for the 80s and it was all about instant satisfaction... Programming your coffee brewing to begin 15 minutes before your alarm went off so you could "tumble from the bed, stumble to the kitchen" and immediately "pour yourself a cup of ambition" was much preferable to setting up, and waiting for, the percolator while staring blearily at your newspaper.
The 2nd recall..... 1979
By 1979, as more reports of separation came in, it had become apparent that the epoxy problem extended to more than just the E-1210 pot. Thus, in September of 1979, a larger recall was issued, encompassing 1961-1976 models (almost every model manufactured prior to the redesign of the E-1210 in 1976) This recall encompassed not only the Electromatic Percolators, but the Stove Top models as well.
This is the Recall that gets a bit tricky.... Here is the list of the dangerous percolators.
Let me give you more of a visual, since most percolators don't have model numbers on them.
These are the Recalled models........ (NOTE: Every single one of them has a Stainless Steel rim)
The P-119, P-129, P-139, W-11, P-219 (9 cup Stove Top - Cornflower, Trefoil, Wheat, White) and the P-116, P-126, P-136, W-116. P-216 (6 cup Stove Top - Cornflower, Black Starburst, Trefoil, Wheat, White) all of which look like this. This also includes several other patterns that did not receive special model numbers such as 1st edition Floral Bouquet from the 1969 Limited Edition gift line as well as the Avocado Medallion released to accompany the Avocado Round.
P-149 (9/10 cup Stove Top - Various Patterns)
Here is the list of those NOT recalled. There are only 4 Corning Ware Stove Top models and 1 Centura Stove Top models on this list along with the redesigned E-1210 and the 4 weird looking Electromatic Percolators.
The E-1108
Oh, one more thing. Corning Ware Consumer Products Division no longer exists. The Corning Ware name is owned by World Kitchen, LLC. They have nothing to do with either of these recalls. Please do not attempt to call their customer service and ask about refunds or returning these pots.
Where is your Corning Ware (Percolator)??
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