@greenweb …… Maybe I'm wrong … been known to happen, but …… maybe you're over-thinking this whole Weber Kettle thing … "very fascinating", indeed ..
I believe the daisy-wheels were available up until 1999-2000. I'm sure the lid and bowl were of the same quality, but no One-Touch.
When it comes to the wheels and triangle, perhaps Weber kettle historian, @Craig can shed some light on this ….
You are absolutely correct! I am overthinking it. 1983-"The “One Touch” sweeping and venting system is introduced. Initially this was a “premium” model before becoming Weber’s standard kettle vent design by 2000". So yes it could have been common to have daisy wheel vents. But...
why Weber do this
- use screw on type wheel vents vs reg. riveted vents.( when did they start using VSM style vents)
- use no whitewall wheel to distinguish apart from reg kettles after all this kettle is Weber line. other time was with Sears/Kenmore economy kettles to separate it from Weber lines of kettles. plastic wheels (1977) to now has been always same on any models, so why change it . Only other time was with new MT and Performer with hubcap wheel.
- Same with the triangle. why power coat it to differentiate. Chrome plated triangle has been always same on any kettles.
- Reds, Gray- wasn't this kind of rare color. any blacks out there? I tend to think the opposite of eco. kettles.
- I do agree and believe that the lid and the bowls were same. New MT is same way with just diff. colors, better grates, warming rack and charcoal bins stock.
- It is possible- came stock with hinged grate, charcoal holder racks and warming racks like I got on mine. then the assumption is upscale version.
To me, possibility of 90's Special Edition kettles are probable. What if . I figure I won't find out or satisfy my curiosity unless I put it out here.
@Craig or anyone ?