Order and Delivery
|
After the backlog is reduced I hope to begin taking
orders again. Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or
comments. |
| One of the most difficult aspects of being
a custom knife maker is coming up with a reasonable order and delivery
system. Getting the knives made on time and delivered promptly can put
a strain on even the finest craftsman. Injuries and other unexpected
delays can and will arise. With the system most makers use, a sprained
wrist can put all customers back by several months, strain budgets and
leave both the maker and customers frustrated. With that in mind, plus
a great deal of advice from other knife makers, I have come up with my
current order and delivery system.
My order system is based around a priority list of current and future customers.When you order a knife, you are added to this list. If it is desired, I will inform you of your position on the list. With this system I do not quote delivery dates. A deposit is not required to place an order and will not be accepted. When you reach the top of the priority list, you will be
notified. At that time, we will confirm the details, price and expected
delivery date. After payment is received, I will then begin work on
your knife. Most knives will be completed within four weeks. After the knife is finished, it will be sent for inspection. If the knife is not found to be satisfactory it will be modified, replaced or returned for a full refund as you desire. After the successful completion of the order, you have the option of staying at the top of the priority list and scheduling another knife. The delivery period involved for subsequent knives is whatever you desire up to one year. Another knife can be made right away, in six months, once a year, etc. In other words, once you have reached the top of the priority list you can stay there as long as you desire. Another facet of this system is how I deal with speculation pieces or knives built without a specific customer in mind. A great deal of the fulfillment that comes from being a custom knife maker is trying new designs or ideas. But I don't think it is fair to take these knives to a show and sell them over the table, when I have customers waiting on my priority list. Consequently, speculation knives are obtainable on a
first-come, first-served basis to those on my priority list. A phone
call or checking the web site is all that is required to check on
knives currently available. Purchasing a knife in this way does not
change a customers position on the priority list. This assures that
those who are waiting for an order to be filled have the first
opportunity to purchase my knives, while allowing me to have the
freedom to try something different. If the knife is not sold to someone on my priority list,
It will then be available to the general public here: http://www.tzknives.com/availableknives.html A word on prices: my prices are the same for everyone. There are no "dealer" or other discounts. I believe there is adequate demand for my work that dealers can honestly justify their commission above my standard retail prices. I strive to produce the best quality knives at fair prices. Prices can be expected to increase at the yearly rate of inflation plus a maximum five percent. I make knives in every type and style, from pocket knives to swords. Since each knife is created individually, no two are alike. These Web pages have a few examples of recent knives, but they are by no means a complete portfolio of my work. My prices start at $250.00. If you need further information about my knives or policies, please don't hesitate to call or write. Thank you for your interest, Tim Zowada |
| Zowada Custom Knives 4509 E. Bear River Road Boyne Falls, MI 49713 Phone/Fax: 231-348-5416 |