Thanks again for all of the comments guys. This really is a special kettle. Not sure what Karma came to bring it my way, but it's thrilling.
@saxart - You might think about changing the subject title to this thread. It is such a rare, never seen before kettle, it needs to have a title that could be searched for in the future. In a year from now, no one will be able to find the thread with the title "Request For Info.(pic heavy). Maybe something like Red and Black Custom Kettle?
Cellar-
Good idea! I just changed the title to "Orange and Black Speckled"
OK I just realized why the texture finish looks somewhat familiar; it's the same that's on the old speckled SJs. It wasn't obvious to me until just now as I walked past my speckled. So Weber dabbled in trying out that texture on larger grills. Or did they do it on the larger one first, then take it to the SJ? Weren't the first SJs solid black with no texture? Anyway, I would be surprised if there aren't more out there. I really love the color on your find.
Rub-
This texture is much more pronounced than any of the speckled SJs I've seen in person. It's a very "textured" surface if you run your hand over it. The drywall in our house has a similar "splatter" texture.
We got a rare mid-April snow storm this weekend. Some parts of the state got over 20" of snow. This morning we had some beautiful sunlight so I thought to take some pics. Here's a teaser...