Brinkmann History?

[Masala]

Does anyone know what year Brinkmann went from super high-quality alloy Mag knock-offs, to so-so high quality Asian manufacturing?

I've seen a distinct difference between newer an older Brinkmanns of the same model, and Id like to get an older one.

 

[nihraguk]

i also noticed the newer maglites also have less detailed etching, and more machining marks than the older ones, and they're still made in america. perhaps brinkmann is doing the same, since it doesn't really affect the torch's performance.