I think it looks great and going off peoples impressions at shows it plays real nice, building a physical pinball is one thing and then software integrating with a lcd is a whole new world that they probably under estimated (based on that interview) but unlike Stern, I am guessing Jack wants to get it right from the start and not have 6 months or a year pass before they give updates.
In the engineering world if you want something custom built you have to pay big portions before even seeing anything - so not uncommon to invest into a product. From hearing Jack's interviews I am sure he would not let the world down as he would be letting himself down.
It must be frustrating Pete to be paid up and no machine and I feel for you but I reckon hang in there and it will get here (when ??). I don't have a machine on order as not my theme but given the right theme I would invest - because without you and the other 999 his business would not get the support to get up and do what he is doing and building there first ever machine with many more to come.
Stuck in there.