Williams ratchet wrench with SO date code?

[MachineTech]

I ordered this Williams 30mm ratcheting wrench from my Snap On dealer and I noticed it has a 2007 Snap On date code. Did Williams always have the same date codes and I was just unaware of it? My friend at work has the exact same wrench branded Craftsman he got from their industrial catalog with a Snap On 2004 date code. Does anyone have more info on this?

http://i472.photobucket.com/albums/rr85/johnnyg1973/williams001.jpg

http://i472.photobucket.com/albums/rr85/johnnyg1973/williams002.jpg

 

[elect]

I have some Kobalt 1/4 from 98 when they were made by Williams and they have the Snap-on date code.

 

[lbgradwell]

I have a Harley-Davidson HDR3836 3/8" Ratchet that was made by JH Williams or Bahco and it has the 2003 SO code. The sockets that came with it have the 2002 code.

I have no idea if the JH Williams tools were so stamped immediately after their acquisition or the change occurred later...

 

[davestlouis]

When did SO buy Williams?

 

[MachineTech]

I don't know but the Snappy dealer told me that if the wrench breaks, not to bring it back to him.

 

[billymade]

Thats pretty lame that he won't back the tool... why is he selling them if he won't warranty the brand? So much for customer service with a smile!

 

[lbgradwell]

When did SO buy Williams?

1993.........