Howard Hazelcorn Columbia book says the first batch (B) introduced in 1897 range from 80000-199999. Second batch (B ,BX) 400000-499999. Approximately at 425000 the plate reads BX. Offered late 1898 (BXP) highly polished nickel plating for $15 was custom same serial block. End of production about 1902. Although some have exposition awards from 1907, '08, '09. You are right that the #2 reproducer is earlier, but not sure on an absolute date, pre-1897? My 1897 B does not have writing inside the reproducer. But who knows if these were handmedowns or replaced later.
Looks like a fun project. Good luck!
Howard Hazelcorn Columbia book says the first batch (B) introduced in 1897 range from 80000-199999. Second batch (B ,BX) 400000-499999. Approximately at 425000 the plate reads BX. Offered late 1898 (BXP) highly polished nickel plating for $15 was custom same serial block. End of production about 1902. Although some have exposition awards from 1907, '08, '09. You are right that the #2 reproducer is earlier, but not sure on an absolute date, pre-1897? My 1897 B does not have writing inside the reproducer. But who knows if these were handmedowns or replaced later.
It is possible that the reproducer was part of old stock that Columbia was trying to use up. I would guess this machine left the factory in late 1897.