First look at an A model Sea Wonder--the 2081A

[festus]

I've been looking for a Sea Wonder 2081 in excellent condition for a few months.  They've been averaging about $38 apiece on the Big Auction, I haven't seen one yet I'd want to pay that much with shipping added.  Late last week I saw a 2081A I'd been following for a couple weeks drop to less than half price on Buy It Now.  I jumped on that fast, got this for less than 20 bucks shipped.  It has a few scratches and scrapes, but this one will eventually be used for fishing, for 12 bucks I expect it.

These are prettier than the earlier grey or maroon Sea Wonders, may be built a little cheaper but still high quality.  The only plastic I found inside was the clicker pawl.  This one had been serviced at least once, there was only a tiny trace of original brown grease visible.  It had been serviced with some clear/greyish grease more recently.  The anti-reverse assembly was the only thing I didn't tear down and clean up, it was in good shape.  This one had the most stubborn snap ring I've ever dealt with, but it eventually came off.
 

[mo65]

   Wow buddy...that is one sweet reel! I'm glad you got that one, I saw it and figured you'd be watching it. I like the A models too, they have a much more streamlined look without those two big frankenstein bolts in the neck. What is the difference between a 2081 and a 2091? Is the spool smaller?

[festus]

   Wow buddy...that is one sweet reel! I'm glad you got that one, I saw it and figured you'd be watching it. I like the A models too, they have a much more streamlined look without those two big frankenstein bolts in the neck. What is the difference between a 2081 and a 2091? Is the spool smaller?

Yes, the housing is practically the same on the 2081 and 2091.  The rotor and spool is a little smaller in diameter on the 2081.  The 2081 is about the same size as a D-A-M Quick 440. 

[Midway Tommy]

Well done, Chester. You'll enjoy that one.