The reason I want a timer is because they usually have an automatic turn-off feature (usually 1 hour).
cicy33, I have not heard of any issues with timers being a fire hazard.
tinapbeana, I definately will try some of your yummy suggestions! Thanx for the link!
threebeansalad, et al., I just like the idea of grinding coffee and adding water, then being waken up in the morning by the aroma of coffee (like magic!) -- another incentive to wake up!
kealina, you sound like there is something wrong with being a coffee addict

I love vietnamese coffee too, but I'm lactose intolerant so I have to be near a bathroom for a couple hours...you know, just in case.
I did some research on amazon.com -- wow, there are alot of choices. One I found promising/intriguing is a brand I am not familiar with: Melitta. Not only does it have a timer and auto-shut off, but it will grind the coffee automatically just before it brews the coffee. It has great reviews. I think I will pull the trigger and buy it. Will let you know if it's as good as they say.