Does anyone actually know if these 'order numbers' are totally chronological, reflecting exact place in the cue? Many seem willing to assume they are. And so many feel abused by the process.
But what if they are not? Further, has the maker really explicitly committed to first come/first served policy?
I don't have skin in this game, but have done so before with Hopper Labs and with RBT, to mention two.
Both of those reached a point where they had to put blinders on and ear plugs in place and stop being good communicators for a while. -- multiple times!
At least this guy doesn't take you money months or years before the product is made (lookin' at you HL). I understand he reserves the funds in your account, but he doesn't charge until ready to ship, right?
From my view, it looks like folks are getting their TM about 2 or 3 months (sometimes 4?) after their order goes in.
Often, creative-types need to be given tremendous leeway, shown great patience. TM could have decided to sell his rights to a bigger concern and walk away -- the TM might have never seen the light of day that way, or might be a completely different vape and customer experience.
A maker of one of the finest 'boutique' guitars in US takes an order, that is simply paper describing the instrument the purchaser would like to have. The 'order' in which these orders are filled is completely up to the whim and mind of the builder. You're going to wait. It may be 6 months or it may be 12 years. He may even make judgement on whether you really need it or not. Or if he has an exciting piece of wood, he'll work on that, even if there's no order calling for it! If you want a Henderson guitar, you wait.
Marvelous book about him, a postal carrier from rural Virginia.
Clapton's Guitar: Watching Wayne Henderson Build the Perfect Instrument
Sorry to go on a diatribe here, I'm just suggesting that if you're going to place an order, assume it will be a long time, don't sweat it in the interim, and be happy when it shows up at some time in your future. Or don't order one.
Vaping a lot of bud while u wait can also be helpful.