I came across a Pro Qualifier that is a special edition with 10 bearings and a changing color paint job.  It turns purple at some angles and green at others.  Does anyone have any experience with these? Are they as good as the regualr PQs?

Wow.  It has been awful slow around here lately.  Surprised no one has answered you yet.  First I've heard of this reel.  I have never used a PQ.  However, they are well thought of around here as one of the best reels in their price range.  There is a thread with a 5 year test of a PQ.  Search and ye shall find.  I'd buy it if the price is about the same as a standard.  Kind of doubt the function will be any better than a standard.  You probably will have to pay a little extra for the special paint job.  I've got a couple Purple Alphas reels.  Purple or off brown depending on how the light hits it.  Pretty. 

This is a picture of the reel.

I'm a proponent of the PQ as a great value reel especially on sale (which is regularly). I'd hesitate to pay a lot if any extra for a painted up one. Bearing count is next to meaningless. I've heard insider commentary that the pq that comes in combos is different which is disappointing. I doubt they'd shoot themselves in the foot by passing off an inferior model as limited edition.

It's actually more of blue/purple color scheme. They are solid reels but I wouldn't pay too much for one. Probably worth $40-60.

It's actually more of blue/purple color scheme. They are solid reels but I wouldn't pay too much for one. Probably worth $40-60.

 

In that case the special color must be a used older model as new standard models sell for $100.........or $80 when on sale.

They are an older model that I hadn't seen before until now. Thanks for all the help!

In that case the special color must be a used older model as new standard models sell for $100.........or $80 when on sale.

Correct. They are older and produced before the current PQ if memory serves me correct. I had 2 at one point but sold them as I went all Daiwa and Shimano. The reel was part of a PQ rod and reel combo.

I have two 7.1:1 PQ's and a 6.4:1 Johnny Morris Signature reel - love all of them.  I would imagine they will go on sale next week on Black Friday for $49 or $59, which would make them one of the best deals going for an already reasonably priced reel at $99.