I have done several of both. I like Teddy because of all his little details. I like Acorn because he looks more newly born. I suppose it depends on the degree of difficulty you want.
As far as seconds... I've never known of any 'seconds' from Secrist. Those are usually sold very cheaply as the "test parts" only. They don't sell seconds like some other places do.
I have had some seconds from BB and they've been ok. But as far as Secrist seconds... they don't exist from the company. Maybe someone bought some parts that they didn't like so they're calling them seconds.
Teddy seems to have a slightly huskier neck that seems more masculine, and I absolutely love his details. I have seen Teddy as a girl and it turns out very well, but Teddy as a boy is my favorite. In fact, I think Teddy is better than most of the high priced sculpts.
Like Buffington said, Secrist does not offer seconds. If money is an issue, perhaps you could purchase the Teddy head from Secrist and then search for some larger limbs that would work okay with him from a company that offers seconds. Just an idea. The down side would be that the vinyl colors may not match, but that is what paint is for.
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Linda Dreyer~ Forum Moderator Secrist Certified Newborning Teacher & Dealer Apple Valley DW Dealer Play Days Dolls & Collectibles PlayDaysDolls.com (Current Avatar: Erinfrom Secrist Dolls)
I just love the Teddy sculpt too. I bought one as a boy for a friend of mine for Christmas and she just loved him as well. He a larger baby then some I think 20 inches but his detail is the best!
My current Teddy is actually a girl (Theresa Anna) and she is adorable. Secrist likes her. I took her to my certification class with me for him to see. I actually got her signed by Vicki Reid! My next Teddy (I have 4 more heads) will be a boy.