A unique identifier assigned to each Bridgeport milling machine during manufacturing, this sequence of characters enables precise identification of a specific machine. This identification is akin to a fingerprint, differentiating one machine from another, even within the same model range. For instance, two seemingly identical Bridgeport Series I Standard mills will possess distinct identifiers, allowing for individual tracking.
These identifiers provide vital information regarding a machine’s manufacturing date, model variations, and sometimes even its original sale location. This data is essential for establishing provenance, verifying authenticity, sourcing correct parts, and understanding the machine’s history. Accurate historical data is invaluable for collectors, restorers, and users seeking to maintain or repair their equipment correctly. Furthermore, this information can be crucial in determining a machine’s fair market value.
