1950s bats question; current color etc.

[Number9]

Have only owned 2-3 1950s GU bats but always notice the wood looks very different from my modern bats. Darker usually, lighter grains etc. Yet in color film and color photos from the 50s, the bats look the same color as modern bats.
Anyway, my question is: does wood change color over time and that is why they look different?

Also do the burned stampings fade/dissipate over time?

I assume this is the case but finally got around to taking pics and asking.
See my photos below for an example.

Have seen countless photos of bats for sale and the 50s bats always look different from modern bats; older bats always look a lot darker to me.

Thanks.

Mike