The Boda V3 has had somewhat of a difficult genesis, with production delays caused by refinements to the design based on testing, along with numerous factory issues including a fire that, thankfully, left the samples unscathed. Most recently, a switch to a more durable zipper has again delayed production slightly, although the final product should be the better for the change.

Today, Boda has announced an expected delivery date for the V3, which has already sold 1/4 of its production run at a discounted pre-order price of $160. The new release date is set at January 1st, 2010, and a new bag color - plum - has also been added to the lineup. Customers who've already placed their orders are being given the opportunity to switch bag colors. To thank customers who've already ordered and make amends for the delays, Boda today sent out a free gift alongside the availability announcement.

For those who've not yet ordered, there are still a few more days left to order at the current preorder price. After Friday, Nov 20 the preorder price will be raised to $170, with the final price on order placed once the bag is shipping next January to be set at $195.

For more details on the Boda V3, visit the company's website. Boda has also posted a YouTube video detailing the trials and tribulations of producing its latest product - be ready on the pause button if you hope to read all the text!

The Boda V3 series lens bag. Photo provided by GoBoda.