Considering this thread is pretty lengthy...Im not sure if this was covered.
Anyone happy with Google preorder strategy? Personally I think it stopped the flippers from pushing up the price and ripping people off. Just look at the sad listings on EBay.
Also to answer questions regarding seemingly random estimate dates it has to deal with supply chain and material resource planning. IE: Parts on hand, delivery timeline, and location. Most enterprises companies today run advance demand planning, supply chain management, and materials resource planning software. Build time, and delivery location are part of the factors that contribute to your ship estimate.
I'd be surprised if these come late, in fact I expect these phones will ship earlier than estimated.