In what way, YJ? Every gear item ever produced, with the exception of the Nowak CS jacket or the AB hat line, have had fan assistance since this hobby began. EVERY piece of gear. Even Aldens has had to deal with fans regarding color!
What's different about this one?
You're right, it is familiar territory. It happens everytime a vendor comes to this community, even those who DO have the original patterns, as no matter what is shown to this community, there is always that 1 or 2 percent who doubt, question, or outright reject any work shown. So, assistance is requested to have items seen in first person to see if passes muster, even knowing it's the real 'McCoy'.
Sometimes even THAT isn't enough, but at least the effort was put forth.
Heck, you witnessed it first person with Tony reproducing the Indy I version of jacket handed to him by that 'un-named' representative of George Lucas. It's STILL being debated to this day! Few fans were involved, and many will never accept the fact such a jacket existed at all.
Happens all the time, and always will if vendors are willing to work with fan communities like ours. Most just wash their hands of us (collectively), call us nuts, and move on. They don't NEED the aggrevation, but they enjoy the fanbase and being able to participate WITH us.
Fortunately, Neil Cooper and Sgt. Hack haven't washed their hands of us.....yet.
...and David, regarding that promise....all I can say is...
Regards! Michaelson