Number on the hull

[luis]

:?: Sorry for put this question again, because I know that I already read about it here but, can anyone tell me the meaning of the numbers I found on my hull ? 31 - 3 - 897
Thanks and best of all :?

[CaptPatrick]

Luis,

After Nov. 1972:
BER = Bertram Yacht
01257 = 1156th 31' built (01257 - 101 = 1156)
11 = November (layup month)
72 = 1972 (layup year)
314 = Sport Fish model

Prior to Nov. 1972:
The model numbers are:
312 = Open (soft top convertible)
313 = Hardtop Sedan
314 = Sport Fish
315 = Fly Bridge Cruiser
316 = Bahia Mar
317 = Express Cruiser

Hull numbers started with hull #101

Making your hull complete number a Bertram 31 Hardtop Sedan; the 796th hull to be produced. Since Bertram produced around a hundred or so hulls a year during that period, that would place your boat around the 7th or 8th year; or around 1968 or 1969...

Br,

Patrick

[luis]

Thanks Capt Patrick but : my Bertram is a 1969 Express Cruiser and that's why I don't understand very well these numbers. reading some posts from you I arrive more or less to the answer you gave me but, looking to the papers I have... I don't understand. This 31-3-897 could be another thing? Should I look to try and find others numbers anywhere ?
Thanks anyway and best regards
Luis

[CaptPatrick]

Luis,

Those numbers, if attached, glassed, or otherwise affixed to the inside of the hull, will be probably be the only numbers you'll find... If the numbers are from a bill of sale or other non-afixed paperwork, it could be either a clerical error or even papers from a different hull other than yours. An Express Cruiser should a 7 as the model designator...

Br,

Patrick

[luis]

Thanks Capt Patrick it was a fast reply. I look better on the inside where I found these numbers and try to confirm better. I am looking for a photo I have and when possible I'll send it to you. Thanks again
Luis

[Pete Fallon]

Luis,

Your 1969 express hull number 897 is consistant with Bertram numbering system, I looked back in my survey report records,

1961 Express Vizcaya 12-13-61 on glassed in plate under port V berth, my own boat. Hull # 186
1962 Express Coastal Hull # 222
1963 Express Finest Kind Hull # 333
1966 Express Sandy Bird Hull # 563
1970 FBC Amore Mia II Hull # 901
1971 FBC Easy Rider Hull #1056
1973 FBC Buddy Boy Hull #1173
1975 FBC Reel Obsession Hull # 1477

Hopes this helps you.

[luis]

Thanks Pete for your info. I am starting a complete repair on my Bertram because on the last 14 years only hull painting. And mainly because of all images and lessons I have collected here, now its the time to do a repair for another 14 years on the water. Thanks
Luis