Between the two the I love the Caldera. Like the other guy I’m a Hot Spring fan. But they’re both owned by Watkins. So quality either way. I think it’s an awesome choice over the marquis. And I think you’ll love it. I’m also a big fan of @ease
My thing is think of how much you’ve now spent in 10 years. 2 spas. Repairs. Not even adding energy effeciency. I believe the Caldera or D1 would still be going with many years ahead of it.
I agree with Dan there.
Hot Spring and Sundance the big dogs. Caldera is under same umbrella as hot spring and jacuzzi under Sundance. I'm also a fan of bullfrog.
But if I had to choose any spa in the world it would be a hot spring every time.
My list of high end are:
hot spring
caldera
sundance
jacuzzi
bullfrog
the nice thing is all these offer several lines at least getting into a mid price range. Below that you're pushing quality and reliability. Viking and Nordic are good.
Unfortunately almost every spa isn't going to cover that in warranty because it is chemical damage and not a defect. You would want to wait 5-10 minutes maybe before closing your cover after adding chlorine and maintaining your PH level is super important.
But I would usually work with a customer and at least get them pillows at cost. Or first time free learning curve. But that's totally up to the dealer.
I love bullfrog spas. The warranty is a tough one because it's up to their honesty. It wouldn't transfer through bullfrog. I'd rather choose a new one and be able to choose the jet paks I want.