You can buy a brand new imac in Dec that was produced in Jan.
Really? I've read threads here where those who've bought new imacs can find the week the imac was actually made via some type of number on the unit. If I remember correctly, the first new ones were showing up with numbers showing they were made in week 40 or 41...etc. Although I just realized you're probably referring to when some of the internal components were produced as opposed to when the unit was put together.
As with anything refurbished. As the model line gets older, the more used parts will go into that model. That is why it is best to get a refurb within the first six months of a products life cycle.
This makes sense to me now.