Hi,
I just installed a MAXWELL VW1200 electric
windlass on my 40 foot sailboat. My yacht has a weight of about 8ton and this New Zealand made unit works really well for me.
It is a dirt simple design and therefore (I think) long-term reliable. I had it first wired for "up-only" on the installers advice (!) but that was really dumb. Well, you can drop the hook anytime just by loosening the "clutch", but make sure you have a up/down control (like me now), so you can "juggle" if stuck. I my case, it got stuck because the wrong chain (!) was supplied. I have all wierd luck on the water!
I am now very pleased with this toy, yes!