Ordered Pocahontas from a dealer two plus years ago. I think they were going for $1,800 - 1,900+; don't remember exact. This was before the pre-order days.
Heard nothing so I called in December, 2014. "Yes, we show they will be shipped soon. The price will be $1,700+."
Heard nothing more. I have been reading Pocahontas news on OGR for weeks. Also read here that Nicholas Smith was is charging $1,489.99. Called N Smith AM to confirm. "Yes, we have them, can ship today, price is $1,489.99."
I ordered the train 2 years ago and don't mind paying a bit more. So I called the first company that I placed the order with. "They will be here next Thursday, maybe today, if not, next Thursday. They will be at the pre-order price... $1,989.99."
"I am sorry but the engine is two year old technology; it is not worth that price now. Please cancel my order."
They were very nice, didn't try to keep me from cancelling. Yes sir, we will do so.
Called Nicholas Smith. "The set will be here Tuesday."
They are great people to work with, nice, called me back to confirm all is done, etc. I feel bad but you know, I owned my own business for years. Customer service matters as does the lack thereof... and often I had to discuss price.
The excitement of a Pocahontas set was a bit tainted some time ago and this really topped it off. I try to do what I say I will and don't like this entire process. And I do want this set. It is the only passenger train we ever rode on.
If you want a Pocahontas, set, call Nicholas Smith.
