The earliest known production 4003 was born, sporting a revised truss rod system (adjusted at body end), features split pickguard and unlike the 4001, does not have a skunk stripe.
1980
1981
1982
1983
1984
Open-backed Schaller-made chrome tuners replaced the old nickel-plated Kluson tuners. 
The truss rod adjustments now moved to the headstock end of the neck and the discontinued need for a split pickguard.
1987
1988
1989
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
The CNC machine is put to full use by carving bodies throughout most Rickenbacker guitars and basses. This increased consistency between like-models moving forward. Starting at this point, there is a carved gap at the end of the fretboard to the end of the neck pickup cavity.
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
Walnut headstock wings return after being absent for decades, previously last seen on 4001 basses from 1972 and never before used on 4003's. 
Adjustable poles became standard on the hi gain pickups.
2007
The inset poured resin inlays used since 1973 are replaced with full width plastic inserts. 
The neck design updated to be a two piece neck, enabling a stronger structure. 
Conversion varnish ceased to be used in favor of a UV-cured finish. 
Caribbean rosewood (chechen) replaces African rosewood (bubinga) for the fretboard material.
2012
2013
The 4003W variant is introduced featuring walnut body rings and a maple neck and matching maple fretboard 
The 4003S and 4003SW were introduced, being a more simple variant of the 4003 and 4003W (respectively) with dot inlays, no body binding, and mono output. 
The pickguard shape is revised, more contoured to the edge of the body
2016
2017
2018
After decades of use, the original basic design of the tailpiece was replaced with the "v2" tailpiece which allows individual saddle height adjustments and is not prone to "tail lift." 
The silver top knobs introduced in the mid 1960's are replaced with an all-black knob, previously known for use on Rose Morris RM1999 basses and corresponding reissues.
2021
2021
August
2022
2022
January
February 
The "skunk stripe" is revived after decades of absence, never before used on a 4003.
September
A new "D"-shaped neck profile replaces the older, bulkier "C"-shaped profile.
2024
Rickenbacker introduces the new bridge pickup surround which eliminates the plastic chrome covers used since 1968 
The vintage style knobs changed, featuring sharper edges and a thicker indicator line 