The handles are actually bamboo, not the traditional wood. As an fyi, the bamboo handles on mine did not fare well. After about five years outside, but under cover they completely deteriorated. The finish failed and the bamboo split.
These fireplaces were reissued for a couple of years around 2007-2010ish. Those years aren't exact, but close.
I use sand in mine too, and it's a fantastic backyard pit. Placing the lid on top does something magical and drastically cuts down on smoke production while directing heat out toward the sides.