maximum exposure - headlight lenses C6 replacements kickstarter
12-14-2016, 10:01 PM
#22
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Some minor updates.
We have received the prototypes, and judging by the detailed comparison, they are virtually indistinguishable except for the GM/DOT related markings from the originals...see photos.
The last photo is particularly interesting because the small "line" will be preserved that is similar to the original lenses. However, we're still exploring how to add a feature that we would like to see in these.
We just spoke to the factory and they said that the prototypes are finished and input directly into the CAD, there will be no further delay of sending the prototypes back for production unless we add those features we want. Once we test fit (one of the next 5 days depending on our tester's availability) we will post pictures.
The prototype does not have any UV coating on it (internal or external) so while some of you may pressure us into selling it to you (it is after all a $1700 prototype) we will not do so because it will yellow and fade within 1 year of use.
Finally, if ANYONE is in the bay area and wants to validate that we're not just blowing smoke up anyone's butt, come on over and see them for yourselves...
We have received the prototypes, and judging by the detailed comparison, they are virtually indistinguishable except for the GM/DOT related markings from the originals...see photos.
The last photo is particularly interesting because the small "line" will be preserved that is similar to the original lenses. However, we're still exploring how to add a feature that we would like to see in these.
We just spoke to the factory and they said that the prototypes are finished and input directly into the CAD, there will be no further delay of sending the prototypes back for production unless we add those features we want. Once we test fit (one of the next 5 days depending on our tester's availability) we will post pictures.
The prototype does not have any UV coating on it (internal or external) so while some of you may pressure us into selling it to you (it is after all a $1700 prototype) we will not do so because it will yellow and fade within 1 year of use.
Finally, if ANYONE is in the bay area and wants to validate that we're not just blowing smoke up anyone's butt, come on over and see them for yourselves...
01-03-2017, 08:43 PM
#23
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There is a slight delay as a key member of the team was out of commission last week so delayed the process by a week. Given Chinese New Year delays, we expect production to complete mid to late January or early February. Fingers cross but we will complete this.
Here is the pre-final test fitment of the lenses. While the photos aren't big (our fault) they give you the details you need.
1) The inner trim pieces lock in exactly where they should
2) All the "divets" and crevices are exactly like the OEM units
3) Acrylic is hyper polished.
We really would like to take this time to encourage those of you on the fence to jump in...or on the diving board to dive in.
The reality is, there are always ways to expedite delivery and with more orders, we will have the opportunity to possibly pay an expedite fee that would speed things up.
Here is the pre-final test fitment of the lenses. While the photos aren't big (our fault) they give you the details you need.
1) The inner trim pieces lock in exactly where they should
2) All the "divets" and crevices are exactly like the OEM units
3) Acrylic is hyper polished.
We really would like to take this time to encourage those of you on the fence to jump in...or on the diving board to dive in.
The reality is, there are always ways to expedite delivery and with more orders, we will have the opportunity to possibly pay an expedite fee that would speed things up.
01-05-2017, 12:45 PM
#24
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I have good news and a little bad news. But I'll keep you guys posted because I don't want to give away too much - because a LOT of people are watching this.
We've been negotiating with the mold factory pretty much all week, since the timezone is quite different, it's challenging.
So here are some concessions we've had them make.
1) Initially, we wanted them to make 50 unit pairs immediately to fill the immediate pre-orders
Given the high demand and rising rate of pre-orders, this is no longer feasible as it will not fill the pre-orders, so we've had to expand the initial order size
2) Initially, we aimed for end of December, which then moved to end of January, that is no longer possible. Took 2 full weeks to get the final terms figured out and we're 99% of the way there, we should be done by Monday with that - a deposit has already been paid, so we're on our way.
3 factors are contributing,
So given all the details, here is the date we've been given.
February 25th. We will have well over the current demand available but...see below.
The lenses will be sent in properly sized and padded boxes
---
We have the ability to pay an expedite fee on Jan 20th, that expedite fee MAY save us a full week and a half. Please continue to do your pre-orders at the $250 price point. On Jan 20th, that price point will be $300.
We've been negotiating with the mold factory pretty much all week, since the timezone is quite different, it's challenging.
So here are some concessions we've had them make.
1) Initially, we wanted them to make 50 unit pairs immediately to fill the immediate pre-orders
Given the high demand and rising rate of pre-orders, this is no longer feasible as it will not fill the pre-orders, so we've had to expand the initial order size
2) Initially, we aimed for end of December, which then moved to end of January, that is no longer possible. Took 2 full weeks to get the final terms figured out and we're 99% of the way there, we should be done by Monday with that - a deposit has already been paid, so we're on our way.
3 factors are contributing,
- Chinese New Year (yes, being made in China, like your iPhone and many other complex parts) will delay the production by 2 weeks
- See #1, WE'RE UPPING PRODUCTION FOR THE INITIAL BATCH DUE TO DEMAND
- Delay in negotiating terms and details -
So given all the details, here is the date we've been given.
February 25th. We will have well over the current demand available but...see below.
The lenses will be sent in properly sized and padded boxes
---
We have the ability to pay an expedite fee on Jan 20th, that expedite fee MAY save us a full week and a half. Please continue to do your pre-orders at the $250 price point. On Jan 20th, that price point will be $300.
01-07-2017, 10:38 AM
#25
I have good news and a little bad news. But I'll keep you guys posted because I don't want to give away too much - because a LOT of people are watching this.
We've been negotiating with the mold factory pretty much all week, since the timezone is quite different, it's challenging.
So here are some concessions we've had them make.
1) Initially, we wanted them to make 50 unit pairs immediately to fill the immediate pre-orders
Given the high demand and rising rate of pre-orders, this is no longer feasible as it will not fill the pre-orders, so we've had to expand the initial order size
2) Initially, we aimed for end of December, which then moved to end of January, that is no longer possible. Took 2 full weeks to get the final terms figured out and we're 99% of the way there, we should be done by Monday with that - a deposit has already been paid, so we're on our way.
3 factors are contributing,
So given all the details, here is the date we've been given.
February 25th. We will have well over the current demand available but...see below.
The lenses will be sent in properly sized and padded boxes
---
We have the ability to pay an expedite fee on Jan 20th, that expedite fee MAY save us a full week and a half. Please continue to do your pre-orders at the $250 price point. On Jan 20th, that price point will be $300.
We've been negotiating with the mold factory pretty much all week, since the timezone is quite different, it's challenging.
So here are some concessions we've had them make.
1) Initially, we wanted them to make 50 unit pairs immediately to fill the immediate pre-orders
Given the high demand and rising rate of pre-orders, this is no longer feasible as it will not fill the pre-orders, so we've had to expand the initial order size
2) Initially, we aimed for end of December, which then moved to end of January, that is no longer possible. Took 2 full weeks to get the final terms figured out and we're 99% of the way there, we should be done by Monday with that - a deposit has already been paid, so we're on our way.
3 factors are contributing,
- Chinese New Year (yes, being made in China, like your iPhone and many other complex parts) will delay the production by 2 weeks
- See #1, WE'RE UPPING PRODUCTION FOR THE INITIAL BATCH DUE TO DEMAND
- Delay in negotiating terms and details -
So given all the details, here is the date we've been given.
February 25th. We will have well over the current demand available but...see below.
The lenses will be sent in properly sized and padded boxes
---
We have the ability to pay an expedite fee on Jan 20th, that expedite fee MAY save us a full week and a half. Please continue to do your pre-orders at the $250 price point. On Jan 20th, that price point will be $300.
Just ordered from the umnitza site
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info@umnitza.com (01-09-2017)
01-12-2017, 07:34 PM
#27
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A LOT, and by a LOT, I mean a LOT are asking about the service for us to remove your headlight lenses and install the covers, which will involve:
a) you shipping us the headlights and we do the work
b) you driving to us and we do the work
c) you going to one of our authorized reseller/installers and doing the work
As we start to line people up around the country, preference will be given to folks in the following way:
1) Those who ordered first will be given first labor option (meaning if you pre-ordered in November when we announced, you will be the first one we work on even if someone who ordered in January sends his lights in 1 day before you).
2) Next will be those that have simplified installs - just covers, or just covers, clear film, and new gaskets (self-provided for now). The more complex installs like - angel eyes, led strips, projector clear lenses, etc. will be scheduled out for time.
3) Finally, groups (for example, we were contacted by a dealer who wants to send us 10 sets of lights so we can do ALL of them at once).
One final note, please remember, some headlight seals take longer than others, historically we have charged $250 for the easier to open lights and $350 for the harder to open lights.
----
OH, yeah, keep the pre-orders coming, remember, once we reach 100 pre-orders and we're awfully close, the price will go up.
a) you shipping us the headlights and we do the work
b) you driving to us and we do the work
c) you going to one of our authorized reseller/installers and doing the work
As we start to line people up around the country, preference will be given to folks in the following way:
1) Those who ordered first will be given first labor option (meaning if you pre-ordered in November when we announced, you will be the first one we work on even if someone who ordered in January sends his lights in 1 day before you).
2) Next will be those that have simplified installs - just covers, or just covers, clear film, and new gaskets (self-provided for now). The more complex installs like - angel eyes, led strips, projector clear lenses, etc. will be scheduled out for time.
3) Finally, groups (for example, we were contacted by a dealer who wants to send us 10 sets of lights so we can do ALL of them at once).
One final note, please remember, some headlight seals take longer than others, historically we have charged $250 for the easier to open lights and $350 for the harder to open lights.
----
OH, yeah, keep the pre-orders coming, remember, once we reach 100 pre-orders and we're awfully close, the price will go up.
01-13-2017, 08:12 PM
#29
Melting Slicks
Are these replacement lenses DOT compliant/certified? Will they have the DOT markings on them necessary for street legal use on roads in North America? If not than you should mention they are for off road use only.
Last edited by KENS80V; 01-13-2017 at 08:15 PM.
01-20-2017, 06:57 PM
#30
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There is the difference between our lenses and any other lenses being produced. We won't make any veiled references to either lenses, you decide which one works for you best and what price works for you. I can assure you all that we will have a great quality product.
Couple of important updates
1) We are working on DOT approval with the factory
2) We have over 85 pre-orders, if you have not submitted your order yet, please consider it.
3) February 25th is still looking strong but there is going to be "dead" time from tomorrow through Feb 4th, so other than us doing some more light testing and fitting, we will be going "dark" except for the occasional bump of a thread to entice more people to join in.
As mentioned elsewhere, we have been doing headlights for over 17 years now, one of the first innovators of customized headlight production ever. Being a trend setter hasn't always been easy, but it's been fun.
And to borrow a silly slogan,
"We will make your Corvette Headlights great again"
Couple of important updates
1) We are working on DOT approval with the factory
2) We have over 85 pre-orders, if you have not submitted your order yet, please consider it.
3) February 25th is still looking strong but there is going to be "dead" time from tomorrow through Feb 4th, so other than us doing some more light testing and fitting, we will be going "dark" except for the occasional bump of a thread to entice more people to join in.
As mentioned elsewhere, we have been doing headlights for over 17 years now, one of the first innovators of customized headlight production ever. Being a trend setter hasn't always been easy, but it's been fun.
And to borrow a silly slogan,
"We will make your Corvette Headlights great again"
01-23-2017, 11:41 AM
#32
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A good question regarding gaskets and sealers
We are not yet charging for gaskets (nor are we initially providing them, the rubber is very difficult to get "just right" and any lenses that come with them pre-installed pose a challenge), we are charging $22.99 for Butyl Sealant that we've used now for 8 years and sell on our site.
https://www.umnitza.com/oci-butyl-he...retrofita.html
A good question for DEPOSITORS from another thread:
For the people who deposited, you are guaranteed a spot in the first batch of 100 sets we're getting as long as 100 people don't pay in full ahead of you.
To put it very simply:
100 people pre-order at full price $249.99 + shipping, those will be given priority to receive the parts
Depositors of $100 are still guaranteed a unit but it will be on the next batch.
IF however, by February 25th we do not reach 100 actual pre-order purchasers, then those who deposited will likely get one of the first 100 sets.
If you are unsure, the $100 deposit is the best way to do it, but the $250 guarantees a spot. At the rate we are going, we will be hitting 100 pre-orders at full price sometimes this week.
One major caveat, it's POSSIBLE that the factory decides to run a batch of 200 as an initial build (we're still negotiating that part) and therefore all this could be just fine and everyone will have access to the first batch. However, if they do run 200+ pairs AND we have 100+ pre-orders, those full price payment pre-orders will still be shipped first and the $100 depositors will be contacted immediately thereafter.
We are not yet charging for gaskets (nor are we initially providing them, the rubber is very difficult to get "just right" and any lenses that come with them pre-installed pose a challenge), we are charging $22.99 for Butyl Sealant that we've used now for 8 years and sell on our site.
https://www.umnitza.com/oci-butyl-he...retrofita.html
A good question for DEPOSITORS from another thread:
For the people who deposited, you are guaranteed a spot in the first batch of 100 sets we're getting as long as 100 people don't pay in full ahead of you.
To put it very simply:
100 people pre-order at full price $249.99 + shipping, those will be given priority to receive the parts
Depositors of $100 are still guaranteed a unit but it will be on the next batch.
IF however, by February 25th we do not reach 100 actual pre-order purchasers, then those who deposited will likely get one of the first 100 sets.
If you are unsure, the $100 deposit is the best way to do it, but the $250 guarantees a spot. At the rate we are going, we will be hitting 100 pre-orders at full price sometimes this week.
One major caveat, it's POSSIBLE that the factory decides to run a batch of 200 as an initial build (we're still negotiating that part) and therefore all this could be just fine and everyone will have access to the first batch. However, if they do run 200+ pairs AND we have 100+ pre-orders, those full price payment pre-orders will still be shipped first and the $100 depositors will be contacted immediately thereafter.
01-27-2017, 02:19 PM
#33
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Just a small update before production starts to ramp up. We're hoping to give you an inside peak like we promised in the Kickstarter campaign, but that won't happen for 1 more week.
We currently stand at over 125 pre-orders (due in part to 3 vendors purchasing in greater bulk than expected). But of those, we still have less than 100 pre-order "RETAIL" customers.
That means you still have a chance to pre-order at $249.99.
We are committed to getting you the best possible product at the best possible price, but we will need to raise prices at some point (though has requested that we extend the $249.99 price to the first 125 people, not 100).
So we're doing that. Since the retail number is close to about 100 right now, there will be room for at least 30+ more people to get the pre-order price. We're going to be in the home stretch soon!
We currently stand at over 125 pre-orders (due in part to 3 vendors purchasing in greater bulk than expected). But of those, we still have less than 100 pre-order "RETAIL" customers.
That means you still have a chance to pre-order at $249.99.
We are committed to getting you the best possible product at the best possible price, but we will need to raise prices at some point (though has requested that we extend the $249.99 price to the first 125 people, not 100).
So we're doing that. Since the retail number is close to about 100 right now, there will be room for at least 30+ more people to get the pre-order price. We're going to be in the home stretch soon!
Last edited by info@umnitza.com; 05-05-2017 at 04:45 PM.
02-02-2017, 12:25 PM
#34
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Just a small update before production starts to ramp up. We're hoping to give you an inside peak like we promised in the Kickstarter campaign, but that won't happen for 1 more week.
We currently stand at over 125 pre-orders (due in part to 3 vendors purchasing in greater bulk than expected). But of those, we still have less than 100 pre-order "RETAIL" customers.
That means you still have a chance to pre-order at $249.99.
We are committed to getting you the best possible product at the best possible price, but we will need to raise prices at some point (has requested that we extend the $249.99 price to the first 125 people, not 100).
So we're doing that. Since the retail number is close to about 100 right now, there will be room for at least 30+ more people to get the pre-order price. We're going to be in the home stretch soon!
We currently stand at over 125 pre-orders (due in part to 3 vendors purchasing in greater bulk than expected). But of those, we still have less than 100 pre-order "RETAIL" customers.
That means you still have a chance to pre-order at $249.99.
We are committed to getting you the best possible product at the best possible price, but we will need to raise prices at some point (has requested that we extend the $249.99 price to the first 125 people, not 100).
So we're doing that. Since the retail number is close to about 100 right now, there will be room for at least 30+ more people to get the pre-order price. We're going to be in the home stretch soon!
Last edited by info@umnitza.com; 05-05-2017 at 04:46 PM.
02-08-2017, 03:05 PM
#35
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Very minor preliminary update.
Factory started work this week, hope to have photos shortly.
We're at about 110-112, have to do a final tally. A couple of people regrettably cancelled - sold car, crashed car.
So we have some room left to get to 125.
The box design is being completed this week, the box dimensions are almost finalized. We'll show you the artwork by this weekend hopefully.
Factory started work this week, hope to have photos shortly.
We're at about 110-112, have to do a final tally. A couple of people regrettably cancelled - sold car, crashed car.
So we have some room left to get to 125.
The box design is being completed this week, the box dimensions are almost finalized. We'll show you the artwork by this weekend hopefully.
02-12-2017, 09:40 PM
#36
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Production on the injection mold has begun. Some details were cropped out to avoid divulging too much. (current count is 112)
Preliminary mold photo
2 Photos of a tech working on finalizing it
The injection machine from two different angles that will be doing the work for this.
Preliminary mold photo
2 Photos of a tech working on finalizing it
The injection machine from two different angles that will be doing the work for this.
Last edited by info@umnitza.com; 02-12-2017 at 09:40 PM.
02-16-2017, 01:37 PM
#37
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We are probably going to have 10 preliminary units shipped to us by Air on Feb 20-28th, still going over all the details here with the factory, factory agent, shipping broker, etc. Typical stuff.
We really do hope to start shipping all the orders by March 1st latest, if not sooner, but we'll know more by Monday of next week (20th).
A little bad news, but it's not relevant to the product. The first units will not get the benefit of our wonderful, unique, glossy finished packaging, they may come in plain cardboard
We'll give you some insight once we finalize the design, for now, here's a sneak peek without revealing the whole thing - call this a "BETA" design.
Last edited by info@umnitza.com; 05-05-2017 at 04:46 PM.
02-22-2017, 02:25 PM
#38
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As we near this project's final stages some last minute administrative stuff - which we will repost again as reminder in a week or so.
The lenses should be completed tonight, we're actually completing a much larger than expected first batch but don't yet have a final count until it's completed, it's in the upper hundreds (and since competitors are watching, we don't want to say exactly either
).
Here are some preliminary photos of both the mold (slightly frosted to conceal some proprietary things) and the packaging as we're going to be delivering it.
Here's our current plan of attack - we already have 2 test sets of lights lined up mid next week to install onto. So we're getting an initial shipment of 8-12 pairs AIR shipped.
As we have been negotiating with shipping brokerages, the costs are way too high for air shipments once you break 30 units. So we may likely get another 30 by AIR for the "I have to have it now" crowd and the "I bought in November" folks as well.
The remaining shipment will be put on a boat end of next week, that will likely take 15-8 days and will actually be in full retail boxes individually wrapped (like you see below).
Finally, we are raising the price of the product to what we believe is still fair considering the quality and workmanship to $299.99. This is going to be done by this weekend or whenever the web guys can update it.
The lenses should be completed tonight, we're actually completing a much larger than expected first batch but don't yet have a final count until it's completed, it's in the upper hundreds (and since competitors are watching, we don't want to say exactly either
).Here are some preliminary photos of both the mold (slightly frosted to conceal some proprietary things) and the packaging as we're going to be delivering it.
Here's our current plan of attack - we already have 2 test sets of lights lined up mid next week to install onto. So we're getting an initial shipment of 8-12 pairs AIR shipped.
As we have been negotiating with shipping brokerages, the costs are way too high for air shipments once you break 30 units. So we may likely get another 30 by AIR for the "I have to have it now" crowd and the "I bought in November" folks as well.
The remaining shipment will be put on a boat end of next week, that will likely take 15-8 days and will actually be in full retail boxes individually wrapped (like you see below).
Finally, we are raising the price of the product to what we believe is still fair considering the quality and workmanship to $299.99. This is going to be done by this weekend or whenever the web guys can update it.
02-27-2017, 02:07 PM
#39
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---
Full update 2/27/19 - slight delay, apology, we're working on it!
---
The factory unfortunately informed us on Thursday evening before the planned FULL production run of lenses that they had a scheduling conflict with another project that had to be completed ahead of ours. This was very upsetting and disheartening news.
We've been in contact with the manufacturing foreman almost hourly at this point, so that's the latest. We've asked for at least a 1-2 day bump on scheduling for the other production run of other parts has a 30,000 unit run which will likely only complete in the late hours of Wednesday or even run into Thursday mid day if there are any complications (some obscure project for a car in South Africa)
The scheduling conflict delays our production run til Thursday of this week, with completion slated for Friday, and delivery of the preliminary lenses by Friday of the following week by AIR (about 30 or so sets to start). It's possible we do about 40-50 units by Air to start with, but it depends on pricing (as mentioned previously) for shipping. The rest of the units will be on boat ASAP with arrival by mid-late March.
I know most of you are eager to get these (no more than we are, believe us), especially when we got our hopes up when the factory thought they may be able to shave 2-3 days from the 2/25 predicted date and promising arrival of the lenses this week. But don't lose faith now, we're definitely very very close.
Also, we've designed the box layout, might as well let the cat out of the bag here:
Full update 2/27/19 - slight delay, apology, we're working on it!
---
The factory unfortunately informed us on Thursday evening before the planned FULL production run of lenses that they had a scheduling conflict with another project that had to be completed ahead of ours. This was very upsetting and disheartening news.
We've been in contact with the manufacturing foreman almost hourly at this point, so that's the latest. We've asked for at least a 1-2 day bump on scheduling for the other production run of other parts has a 30,000 unit run which will likely only complete in the late hours of Wednesday or even run into Thursday mid day if there are any complications (some obscure project for a car in South Africa)
The scheduling conflict delays our production run til Thursday of this week, with completion slated for Friday, and delivery of the preliminary lenses by Friday of the following week by AIR (about 30 or so sets to start). It's possible we do about 40-50 units by Air to start with, but it depends on pricing (as mentioned previously) for shipping. The rest of the units will be on boat ASAP with arrival by mid-late March.
I know most of you are eager to get these (no more than we are, believe us), especially when we got our hopes up when the factory thought they may be able to shave 2-3 days from the 2/25 predicted date and promising arrival of the lenses this week. But don't lose faith now, we're definitely very very close.
Also, we've designed the box layout, might as well let the cat out of the bag here:
Last edited by info@umnitza.com; 02-27-2017 at 02:07 PM.
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Ahrmike (02-28-2017)
