To be honest, i think they're seconds, but worth every penny. Things like the stamping isn't quite perfect, or there's a couple of odd grind marks where there shouldn't be. It may be that the grind itself isn't up to scratch ()
They're still fantastic, & i may be wrong. I just think that back when they were made the company decided it could do better.
Once you've found how your's likes to be honed you'll love it!