If $$ is not a factor - I think they are similar in $$, btw -  which one would you get and why? Also, are they relatively easy to clean and do some rudimentary maintenance on like a lube job and etc? 

Certate for its smoothness and magseal

I haven't used the newest Vanquish, but I like the Certate LT better than the 2012 version. I didn't care for the hollow feel of the magnesium. The Certate just feels smoother and more solid. The 2019 Vanquish may be better. I wouldn't suggest a beginner try to take apart either of these reels. The Certate uses magseal and can only be replaced by Daiwa techs, to my knowledge. Both reels have extremely tight tolerances, so they have to be taken apart and put together extremely carefully. 

The Vanquish is super light whereas the Certate is not. I would expect both reels to be pretty premium in feel and operation. None of my rods are balanced enough for a reel as light as the Vanquish, but it would still be cool. Personally I think I'd go for a Certate, and I say that as someone who owns only Shimano and 1 Pfleuger reel. I'd be willing to give Daiwa a shot for a Certate LT. It looks like a sweet reel.

PLAT has the 2016 certate HD on sale for 40% off as of this morning with free shipping. 

2 hours ago, Dwight Hottle said:

PLAT has the 2016 certate HD on sale for 40% off as of this morning with free shipping. 

Looks like a great deal. For, say, striper fishing, that would be perfect! 

The Vanquish is like glass smooth and low inertia, my wife uses one and I’ve fished it quite extensively and its much smoother than my Certate.