The original Leatherman Wave multitool, a game-changer designed by Tim Leatherman himself, is now a coveted collectible for enthusiasts. Production variations in the Old Leatherman Wave tool, especially concerning its blade markings, provide invaluable clues for determining its age. Manufacturing nuances from the Leatherman factory in Portland, Oregon, subtly shifted over the years, creating distinct characteristics useful for dating each model. Examining the Phillips head screwdriver design can also provide insights into the production era of your old leatherman wave, turning you into a true Wave historian.
Decoding History: A Guide to Dating Your Old Leatherman Wave
So, you’ve got an old Leatherman Wave? Awesome! These iconic tools are more than just multi-tools; they’re pieces of engineering history. Determining the age of your Wave can unlock a deeper appreciation for its legacy and even impact its value. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to pinpointing its age. We will focus on key indicators, serial numbers, and subtle design changes that have occurred over the years. Let’s dive in!
Section 1: Why Date Your Leatherman Wave?
Before we get into the how, let’s address the why. Knowing the age of your Wave offers several benefits:
- Appreciation: Understanding when your Leatherman was made connects you to its story and evolution.
- Collectibility: Certain Wave variations from specific years are highly sought after by collectors, potentially increasing its value.
- Maintenance: Knowing the age can help determine the appropriate maintenance and replacement parts. Different eras may have slightly different component designs.
- Historical Context: It’s fun to know what was happening in the world when your trusty tool was made!
Section 2: The Serial Number – Your Primary Clue
The most reliable method for dating your Leatherman Wave is by examining its serial number. This number, typically stamped on the inside of one of the tool handles, holds the key to its manufacturing date.
- Location: Look carefully! Serial numbers are often small and located on the inner surface of the handle, near the pivot point.
- Format: The serial number format varies slightly depending on the year. Early Waves often had fewer digits.
- Decoding: This is where it gets interesting! Leatherman provides a date code chart that links the serial number to the month and year of manufacture. You can usually find this chart on the Leatherman website or through online enthusiast communities.
It’s important to know that not all Waves have serial numbers. Older models may lack them altogether, meaning we’ll need to rely on other identifying characteristics.
Section 3: Spotting Design Variations: A Visual Time Machine
Even without a serial number, visual clues can help you narrow down the production period. Leatherman made subtle (and not-so-subtle) changes to the Wave over the years. Here’s what to look for:
- Blade Steel: Early Waves used different types of steel for the blades. Investigating the blade marking can help understand the date.
- Handle Design and Markings: The handle design and the wording stamped on it evolved. Pay attention to the font, placement, and any unique markings.
- Tool Configuration: While the core tools remained consistent, minor adjustments were made. For example, the implementation of replaceable wire cutters.
Section 4: Key Design Elements Across Production Years
To effectively use the design variations, it’s necessary to understand how different elements looked during the different periods. Consider a table such as the following:
| Feature | Early Models (1998-2004) | Mid-Production (2004-2018) | Late Production (2018-Present) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Handle Finish | Brushed stainless steel, sometimes more matte. | Polished stainless steel, generally shinier. | Generally black oxide coating for newer models. |
| Wire Cutters | Non-replaceable | Replaceable | Replaceable, often with updated blade geometry. |
| Blade Markings | Simple logo and "Leatherman" marking. | More detailed blade steel markings. | Inclusion of date codes and specific steel type. |
| Sheath Material | Leather or nylon, simpler designs. | Nylon, often with additional features like storage pockets. | More advanced materials, such as ballistic nylon, enhanced durability. |
| Phillips Screwdriver | Flat, not fully formed Phillips head. | More defined Phillips head. | Improved geometry for a more secure grip. |
| Box Packaging | Basic cardboard, minimal branding. | More elaborate packaging with vibrant colors. | Eco-friendly packaging materials are often used, highlighting sustainability. |
Section 5: Consulting the Experts and Communities
Dating an old Leatherman Wave can sometimes be tricky. You might encounter a model with features from different eras or find conflicting information. In such cases, don’t hesitate to consult online resources:
- Leatherman Forums: Many dedicated Leatherman forums exist where enthusiasts share their knowledge and collections. Posting pictures and asking questions can yield valuable insights.
- Leatherman Collectors Groups: Social media groups dedicated to Leatherman collecting are great resources for identifying rare or unique models.
- Leatherman Customer Support: If you’re truly stumped, contacting Leatherman’s customer support can sometimes provide answers, especially regarding serial number decoding.
By combining your own observations with the expertise of the community, you’ll significantly increase your chances of accurately dating your old Leatherman Wave.
FAQs: Old Leatherman Wave Dating Guide
How can I tell the difference between a pre-2004 Wave and a later model?
The original old leatherman wave models (pre-2004) feature a different style of pivot screw for the outside blades. Later models have torx screws while the original Wave had flatter pivot screws that sometimes appear slotted.
Where can I find a date code on my old Leatherman Wave?
The old leatherman wave typically does not have a readily apparent date code. Leatherman started adding date codes to tools later. Dating relies mostly on identifying key design features.
What design features are unique to the original old Leatherman Wave to help with dating?
Key features include the older style pivot screws, the original tool selection, and the overall design aesthetics. Comparing your old leatherman wave to documented early models online can help. Also, the sheath design can be an indicator.
Is there a specific resource that is the most helpful for dating my old Leatherman Wave?
While there is no single definitive resource, searching online forums dedicated to Leatherman multi-tools will provide access to discussions and photos. There you can compare your old leatherman wave’s features with those documented by experienced collectors.
So, whether you’re a seasoned collector or just curious about that old Leatherman Wave you found in your garage, hopefully this helps you pinpoint its age and maybe even appreciate it a little more. Happy dating!