Out of all the reel companys, I like Shimano the best ( most of the reels except for fly reels).
But more I look at the Shimano reel line , I have noticed we are getting a far less superior reel compare to what they offer in Japan.

For instance the new Calcutta Te is not as well built and has less berings then the counterpart Calcutta Conquest, which is drilled and has more holes then Swiss Chees and not to mention better parts, the Calais is not offered in salt water size and the Curado (100 series) offered in Japan have the same inners as the Calais (handle, berings, all metal parts including star drag with positive click ,whiffle spool and a better drag and berings, and the price is lot less. The 1500 series are more like the US version of the Curado but still better. The Japanese version of the Stradic is more like a Stella. The list goes on for all the reels.
I wish we can get the same line up here but only way to get them is through mail order, or wait 3 or 4 years and get the US version that is still not up to par.

I know a few people who have been using the Japanese versions and it is far superior.

After my last thread about the Eon vs Curado, I think I will get the Curado but the Japanese version (Scorpion 1005).

CURADO SCORPION 1000 SERIES



Curado Scorpion 1500 Series:



Calcutta Conquest.



Stradic 2000 series (Ultegra)



Stradic 1000 Series ( Biomaster)



Chronarch: ( offered in 4 colors)


Side view of the Calcutta TE Conquest


Sustain

I've got 2 of the japanese Shimanos, the Scorpion 1500 (the 1000 is the small version) and a Scorpion Metanium Mg. They both are sweet reels.

Where are you finding the Japanese models? I've got a couple of the US Curados and love them but always interested in just one more reel.

Divers you are right on about the Japanese vs American product line that Shimano put out. I Purchased a New Calcutta Conquest 400 and man am I glad that I choose it over the TE. It's
one smooth reel! And let's not forget that the disign and workmanship far exceeds the TE. I like having all those extra ball bearings and that beautiful casing.

If There is a draw back it would be that if you need parts or repairs it could take longer because a lot of the Japanese models parts have to get shipped from Japan. And if that happens be prepaireds to wait a little while as Shimano Irvine will try to overhaul it to the lesser quality American standard. They will substitute for and remake it to use American Parts. That is easier for them and it will get you back in line with what American Shimano wants and that is you buy the American version.

I have all of the American models of the Calcutta reels except the TE and I am glad that I decided to give the Conquest a try and now I will also purchase a scorpion for the same reasons.

Sure is nice slamming slabs with such a beautiful piece of machinery.

Onthesaulk, you can get them new through dealers in Japan or Ebay.

You can get them on eBay...be prepared to pay out the nose for the Japanese models!

TL/WN
Camo

Here you go kid Sauk, the Japenese versions.
they have a l;ot more too.

Also these guys will have them too.
http://www.japantackle.com/Reels.htm