Hi Stu
This is my first ever post here so I'll have to properly introduce myself to the community soon elsewhere.
I'm also researching my first serious telescope purchase and have the Sky Watcher 14" flex tube GOTO as my most preferred option. I've lurked here and CN long enough to know what will suit me best and being 6'3, 110kgs and owning a 4x4, I think I could handle something that big. However now that we are finally into our dry season up here, I will be attending some observation nights and speaking to the local experts before I pull the trigger on the purchase.
Anyway, the reason for this reply is that Andrews replied to my query on the 14" yesterday by saying that they are expecting a shipment in 1 to 2 months time. I suspect the 12" telescopes are probably on the same boat. They also stated that they didn't sell the nylon shrouds so I'm going to have to source one from somewhere else.
Good luck with your eventual purchase, I'll be paying particular attention to this thread as like our telescopes..... we're in the same boat.
Gino
Darwin