New user alert: is there a way to date my “used” branded bass?

[dth]

Hi! Longtime fan; first time owner. 

I recently picked up a second gen 5-string Cruise bass and am wondering if there’s a way to date it? The bass is a factory second and has “used” stamped in the headstock and is not a USA model. I have read on here that the import models are hard (or impossible) to date, but was hoping to see if I’m missing something in my attempt. I have been unsuccessful in finding info on the strange paper serial number my bass has. Thanks!

[cmatthes]

Hamer didn't start making the import Cruisebass models until @1997.  There is really no difference between the '97 product through the very early 2000s.  They offered a 4 and 5 string model and 2-tone sunburst was an offered finish option.  
The "USED" and/or "2" stamp indicate that it was either a defective instrument sent for repair or one that had damage in shipping and was sent to Franklin or another rehab shop to repair and sell via a liquidator.  The sticker number isn't really able to date the instrument, as that was added by the repair facility, and the import serial numbers aren't helpful for narrowing down the manufacturing date, unfortunately!

[Victor (Fret Friend)]

There is no way to date it exactly but it would be likely made in Korea between 92 and 98 if it is an early one… 

[dth]

1 hour ago, Victor (Fret Friend) said:

There is no way to date it exactly but it would be likely made in Korea between 92 and 98 if it is an early one… 

Thanks so much!

[cmatthes]

No way that was earlier than 98.  I'd say '99-03.

[dth]

21 hours ago, cmatthes said:

No way that was earlier than 98.  I'd say '99-03.

What are the differences between the <99 and the later ones? (I like to know all the subtleties)

[dth]

8 hours ago, cmatthes said:

Hamer didn't start making the import Cruisebass models until @1997.  There is really no difference between the '97 product through the very early 2000s.  They offered a 4 and 5 string model and 2-tone sunburst was an offered finish option.  
The "USED" and/or "2" stamp indicate that it was either a defective instrument sent for repair or one that had damage in shipping and was sent to Franklin or another rehab shop to repair and sell via a liquidator.  The sticker number isn't really able to date the instrument, as that was added by the repair facility, and the import serial numbers aren't helpful for narrowing down the manufacturing date, unfortunately!

Gotcha. I appreciate your help! Whatever made it a factory second isn’t apparent in the playability and I picked it up for next to nothing (especially for a 5-string), so I’m super happy with it. Thanks again. 

[cmatthes]

5 hours ago, dth said:

Gotcha. I appreciate your help! Whatever made it a factory second isn’t apparent in the playability and I picked it up for next to nothing (especially for a 5-string), so I’m super happy with it. Thanks again. 

Sure!  Many times the stamped/refurbished guitars were simply a finish issue or maybe even less than that, but as with yours, zero impact to playability whatsoever.  Those will definitely qualify for the "great deal" category!