they aren't "new" :rolleyes: ... at least the "concept" isn't. I bought one of them "depth locator" type reels, many years ago. I just can't remember if they were made by Zebco, or not. It's on the bottom of Taylorsville Lake, Ky. (accidents happen)
It worked as advertised, and about as well as any other "spincast" reel I've ever had. The "depth re-location" device is nothing more than a pin that pushes across the outside edge of the line spool ... so that when you engage it, and reel in your line, the line wraps over it and the spool. Then, when you engage the reel and let your line out, again ... only the line that is wrapped around the pin/spool is allowed to leave the reel -- putting you right back at the same depth. When you look at the picture - the brass looking "button" on the reel is the "pin" engagement device.
They made them in Spincast and in Spinning reels ... and I see that Zebco has both styles now, too. The only "problem" I can forsee with them - is if you should happen to retract the pin when there's line wrapped over it. Then you'd have loops of loose line inside the reel, just waiting for a chance to wad up into a big 'ole birdsnest :D
The price is reasonable. And "nightstalkers" & other "tightliners" might find them quite useful. (though I wouldn't put mono over 8lb test in them) ...cp