There is a 1981 series 1 for sale here;
http://classifieds.ozfreeonline.com/SHOW_INFO/987607/1981-Alembic-Series-I-4-String-Bass-Guitar.html
It's been for sale for over a year with no sale. Currently doing some digging. Anyone recognise the picture?
 
Smells fishy to me. Item for sale in China. I requested a serial number just waiting for a reply.  
 
slawie

hm - 550 AUD, listed under Housewares > Refrigerators and Freezers - what are they thinking!