All but the oldest AVL looms have their own serial numbers. A loom's serial numbers is located on a nameplate that was generally placed in the center of the upper horizontal crossmember on the Harness Pulley Support. The sitting weaver can usually look up and see the nameplate. The other predominant location for the nameplate is on the side of the dobby head facing the front of the loom. Contact us with the loom serial number and we'll tell you when the loom was produced and its original equipment. Most AVL serial numbers have five integers, such as 01234. If your loom has a number other than five integers -- either longer or shorter -- then you have a collector's item; most likely built in the late 1970's or early 1980's. There were also some very early looms produced without serial numbers. These would have been made in 1976-77. Due to the type of wood and finish, AVL's experienced staff can usually tell these looms apart with one look at a picture.