It's a valid question, their previous warranty was way shorter and non-transferrable. They were the last premium brand to beef up their warranty. I don't know if they would be generous and grandfather in the close ones but it sure made me happy buying my UVHD+ last year knowing I'm covered for a while, and resale will be higher for it. Either way, that's amazing glass at a steal!I would not worry about the year of manufacture of any Ultravid HD's.