Cole & Mason Electronic Richmond Salt & Pepper Mills Set
Cole & Mason Electronic Richmond Salt & Pepper Mills Set
- In stock, ready to ship
- Inventory on the way
- Free Mainland UK delivery over £49 - No Quibble Returns
Cole & Mason Richmond Electronic Mills: Professional Grinding at the Touch of a Button
The Richmond electronic salt and pepper mill set from Cole & Mason brings effortless convenience to professional-quality seasoning. One-touch battery-powered operation eliminates the twisting motion of manual mills, whilst the built-in LED light ensures precision placement - particularly valuable when both hands are busy cooking or when mobility issues make manual grinding difficult. The elegant stainless steel design suits contemporary kitchens whilst housing the same quality mechanisms Cole & Mason mills are known for.
This innovative set combines electronic convenience with proven grinding technology:
- One-touch electronic operation - simply press the button and the motor activates grinding automatically
- Built-in LED light illuminates when grinding, showing exactly where and how much seasoning you're adding
- Hardened carbon steel pepper mechanism strips peppercorns in a two-stage process for maximum flavour release
- Diamond-sharp ceramic salt mechanism is completely corrosion-proof and stays sharp for decades
- Adjustable grind settings allow control from fine to coarse for both mills
- Battery powered - requires 6 x AAA batteries per mill (not included)
- Elegant stainless steel body with contemporary styling suits modern kitchens
- Comes filled and ready to use once batteries are installed
- Lifetime mechanism guarantee on the grinding components
Electronic mills offer genuine advantages beyond mere convenience. For those with arthritis, limited hand strength, or wrist problems, one-touch operation requires minimal pressure compared to the repeated twisting motion of manual mills. When cooking and needing seasoning whilst stirring or holding ingredients, the ability to activate grinding with one hand proves genuinely useful. The LED light solves the common problem of overseasoning dark foods or working in dim lighting.
The mechanisms themselves remain unchanged from Cole & Mason's proven manual designs. The carbon steel pepper mechanism's two-stage grinding - first cracking, then grinding - maximises volatile oil release for superior aroma and flavour. The ceramic salt mechanism resists corrosion indefinitely whilst maintaining razor-sharp grinding performance. The electronic motor simply replaces the manual twisting action without compromising grinding quality.
At 21.5cm tall, the Richmond mills are slightly taller than standard manual mills to accommodate the battery compartment and electronic components, yet they remain comfortable to hold and use. The stainless steel finish provides a sleek, professional appearance that suits contemporary dining settings.
Suitable for those with arthritis or limited hand mobility, anyone who values kitchen convenience, busy cooks who need hands-free operation, gadget enthusiasts who appreciate innovative design, and as thoughtful gifts for those who might find manual mills challenging to use.
What Customers Ask About Cole & Mason Richmond Electronic Mills
How do the electronic mills work?
The Richmond mills feature one-touch battery-powered operation. Simply press the button on top and the motor activates the grinding mechanism automatically. Release the button to stop grinding. This hands-free operation is particularly convenient when your other hand is busy cooking or you have mobility issues that make manual twisting difficult.
What batteries do I need and are they included?
Each mill requires 6 x AAA batteries (12 batteries total for the set). Batteries are not included with the mills. We recommend using alkaline batteries for best performance and longevity. Rechargeable batteries can be used but may provide less consistent power as they discharge.
What is the LED light for?
The built-in LED light illuminates when you activate the grinding mechanism, allowing you to see exactly where and how much seasoning you're adding. This is particularly useful when seasoning dark-coloured foods, working in dim lighting, or ensuring precise seasoning placement on plated dishes.
What type of mechanisms do these mills use?
The pepper mill uses a hardened carbon steel mechanism that strips peppercorns in a two-stage process for maximum flavour release. The salt mill uses a diamond-sharp ceramic mechanism that's completely corrosion-proof. Both mechanisms are covered by Cole & Mason's lifetime guarantee.
Can I adjust the grind size?
Yes, both mills feature adjustable grind settings that allow you to control texture from fine to coarse. Adjust according to the manufacturer's instructions - the electronic motor powers the grinding, but you still control the coarseness setting.
How long do the batteries last?
Battery life depends on usage frequency, but with typical home use (several grinds per day), quality alkaline batteries should last several months. The mills will grind more slowly or stop working when batteries need replacement. Always remove batteries if storing the mills for extended periods.
Do these mills come filled or empty?
The mills come filled with seasonings, ready to use immediately once you install batteries. When refilling is needed, follow the manufacturer's instructions to access the filling chamber - the electronic mechanism doesn't change the refilling process.
Are electronic mills as good as manual mills?
The Richmond mills use the same quality mechanisms as manual Cole & Mason mills - carbon steel for pepper, ceramic for salt. The electronic motor simply replaces the manual twisting action. Grinding quality is identical; the difference is convenience. Some prefer the tactile feedback of manual mills, whilst others value the ease of one-touch operation.
What happens if the motor stops working?
First try replacing the batteries. If the motor still doesn't work, check for any blockages in the grinding mechanism. The lifetime mechanism guarantee covers the grinding components, but electronic motors may have separate warranty terms. Contact Cole & Mason with your proof of purchase for assistance with motor issues.
Can I use these mills over steaming pots?
No, never use mills directly above steaming pots. Steam can damage both the grinding mechanisms and the electronic components. Moisture exposure can cause corrosion of batteries and electrical parts. Always season food away from steam sources.
What if the mills get wet?
Electronic mills should never be immersed in water or placed in dishwashers. If the exterior gets wet, wipe immediately and dry thoroughly. If moisture enters the battery compartment, remove batteries immediately, dry the compartment completely, and leave open to air dry before reinstalling batteries.
Are these suitable for people with arthritis?
Yes, electronic mills are excellent for those with arthritis, limited hand strength, or mobility issues. The one-touch operation requires minimal pressure compared to manual twisting, making seasoning easier and less painful for those with hand or wrist problems.
What We've Learned About Mills Since 1972
After five decades of helping customers choose mills, we've seen electronic mills evolve from gimmicky gadgets to genuinely useful tools. Early electronic mills suffered from weak motors and poor mechanisms. The Richmond represents modern engineering - quality mechanisms powered by reliable motors with thoughtful features like LED illumination.
Electronic mills aren't for everyone. Some cooks prefer the tactile feedback and control of manual grinding. But for those with arthritis, limited hand strength, or anyone who values convenience during busy cooking, electronic operation offers genuine advantages. We've seen customers initially sceptical become enthusiastic users once they experience the ease of one-touch grinding.
The critical factor remains mechanism quality. A beautiful electronic mill with a poor mechanism will frustrate you just as quickly as a manual one. The Richmond uses proven Cole & Mason mechanisms - carbon steel for pepper, ceramic for salt - ensuring grinding quality matches manual mills whilst adding electronic convenience.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Battery Installation: Install 6 x AAA batteries in each mill according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure correct polarity. We recommend alkaline batteries for best performance. If using rechargeable batteries, be aware they may provide less consistent power as they discharge.
First Use: Once batteries are installed, test the mills on a plate before using over food. Press the button on top - the motor should activate and the LED light should illuminate. Release to stop grinding. This ensures everything is working correctly.
Adjusting Grind Size: Adjust the grind settings according to the manufacturer's instructions. The electronic motor powers the grinding, but you control the coarseness setting independently. Test the grind before seasoning food, as settings may have been changed.
Daily Use: Hold the mill over your food and press the button to activate grinding. The LED light will illuminate, showing exactly where seasoning is falling. Release the button to stop. Use short bursts rather than continuous grinding to avoid overseasoning and preserve battery life.
Refilling: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to access the filling chamber. Use whole peppercorns (never pre-ground pepper) in the pepper mill and coarse dry salt in the salt mill. The electronic mechanism doesn't change the refilling process.
What to Use: In the pepper mill, use black, white, or green peppercorns. Mix pink peppercorns with harder varieties. In the salt mill, use rock salt or dry coarse sea salt. Avoid light finishing salts like Maldon or Fleur de Sel.
Cleaning: Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth and dry immediately. Never immerse in water or put in the dishwasher. Be particularly careful around the battery compartment - moisture here can cause corrosion and damage. If the exterior gets wet, dry thoroughly straight away.
Battery Maintenance: Replace batteries when grinding becomes noticeably slower or stops. Always remove batteries if storing the mills for extended periods (more than a month) to prevent corrosion from battery leakage. Check the battery compartment periodically for any signs of corrosion.
If Motor Stops Working: First replace the batteries. If still not working, check for blockages in the grinding mechanism - large peppercorns or salt crystals can lodge and prevent motor operation. If problems persist, contact Cole & Mason with proof of purchase.
Storage: Store in a dry location away from steam and excessive moisture. Electronic components are particularly sensitive to moisture. Never store with wet or corroded batteries inside.
Critical Rules: Never put salt in the pepper mill - it will corrode the carbon steel mechanism. Never put pepper in the salt mill unless specifically designed for it. Never use above steaming pots - steam damages both mechanisms and electronic components. Never immerse in water.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality cookware. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
Plus Cole & Mason's Lifetime Mechanism Guarantee on grinding components
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've used it and don't like it?
Return it anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if it doesn't do what you wanted, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've installed batteries and used the mills for seasoning.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally damage this set, we'll replace it at half price with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. Photos of the damage are acceptable.
How long does delivery take?
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take up to 7 working days, but is usually 3-4, and is free for orders over £49. Next day delivery may be available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill.
Can I put salt in the pepper mill or pepper in the salt mill?
Never put salt in the pepper mill - salt will corrode the carbon steel mechanism, causing permanent damage. The salt mill's ceramic mechanism can technically grind pepper, but settings are optimised for salt. Always use dedicated mills to maintain the lifetime guarantee and prevent damage.
Cole & Mason has over 100 years of experience in the art of seasoning. Their innovative and stylish salt and pepper mills make a great addition to your kitchen, with a variety of sizes and materials to choose from.
