I am puzzled
Many out there like the round chucks on a Unique. I appreciate the Unique design when using my Deluxe or a metal lathe, and getting too close to the spinning lathe chuck with my fingers. The round chuck is fairly benign when one has the occasional brush against a spinning chuck.
The round chucks also have greater gripping surfaces and softer faces. The only obvious shortcoming to me is the regular one direction motor. The reversible motor would be a big plus on the companion lathe. Then maybe add a second conventional 3 or 4 jaw chuck to the left side of the headstock, possibly mounted in its own (additional) steady rest? One now has the best of both worlds. Though still best served as a cue repair lathe. I use my Companion at tournaments, so easy to fold up and carry about.
But we all have our preferences. In my workshop I only use the Companion when my Deluxe is tied up on a job and I need to do a quick tip or ferrule, I often do not like to do that with a large metal lathe, as I also cut metal a lot and have to worry about oil residue inside my spindle of the metal lathes. My Deluxe is far from portable: the addition of a large DC motor, mounted digital scales, bolted down to my work bench with an extension to the left side of the bed to hold a shaft or butt at the left far end, and QR toolholder. etc. So the Companion is much appreciated when I want to travel with a lathe.
No matter which lathe we buy there is always a wish list we can come up with after having used the machine for awhile. Then it becomes time to customize !
I can relate to your complaint though: when a machine has been out there for many years, why not incorporate some obvious changes to make it better compete in the market? Price is not always the most important consideration if a machine is superior and works more efficiently. But price does attract new buyers like moths to a flame.
