maybe, but doesn't have to be.
In my case, SE couldn't/wouldn't give me any information: in 2019 I found an Alto via Ebay and asked SE (before buying it) by email if I could have some facts about this instrument with the serial number #5686 (year of production, whether it was on a list of stolen sticks, etc.). I never got an answer.

I bought it anyway and still have it

That seems very odd.


Did you try asking again after you bought it.

I've contacted them after each of my purchases of used Sticks and each time they've been able to tell me when the Stick was original shipped & (approximately) where to, and been interested to know where it is now. With Ironwood #1642 they asked for (& were given) some images of the bridge & headstock.

No, I did not. Perhaps I should try again ...

That blue is the original color from SE. I had one like it in the 80's that was the same color. I think they offered several colors of paint on the polycarbonate sticks, as well as the unfinished black polycarbonate. I bought mine around 1986 and sold it in 1990 due to life circumstances. I ended up not liking it nearly as much as the 70's ebony stick I sold to buy it. It was much heavier and didn't stay in tune as well during outdoor gigs. I think this is because the polycarbonate didn't adjust to temperature the way the wood one did. But, the blue was very cool and eye-catching.