[Elecraft] K3 Serial numbers

[G3SJJ]

Looking for some clues on serial numbers. Last noted one is 178, yet K3 
Wiki says first 200 units have been produced but doesn't say shipped.

I am planning some contests over the next two months which will involve 
my K3. According to the latest info, orders received up to 9th May will 
be shipped by end of next week, so I am thinking that 10-14th May orders 
will be shipped by week ending 18 Jan. That would be perfect as my 14th 
May should be with me by 25th and up and running, hopefully, to slot in 
my SO2R system for weekend of 1/2/3 May. I sold my K2 back in June last 
year in anticipation of K3 delivery in July and now just have the FT1kMP 
so no SO2R capability. There is no great panic but without the K3 I 
would probably ask the owner of a big contest station, so obviously the 
sooner I can advise him to see if his domestic arrangements will allow 
this the better.

Again early March sees another contest where SO2R is ideal. The rate is 
painfully low, about 10 an hour for us in the UK, but mults are vital so 
searching other bands becomes key to building a good score.

If shipping has gone out again it may even benefit me as I am consider 
visiting states in mid-March, in which case I could have the K3 
delivered to me there by some unsuspecting N0 or N6 (!!), and maybe I 
could even partially assembly it so i don't bring the bog box back. VAT 
saved would pay most of my air fare!

Not looking to antagonise the Stars and Stripes waving guys but I am 
trying to do some realistic planning and tracking serial numbers is helpful.

Chris G3SJJ