I wasn't able to preorder early enough and I'm wondering if it would be possible to get the new iPhone 5 in the Apple Stores in NYC on launch day (or even before Oct 5)?
I think it's worth a try - you might not get a phone but they will put your name down and then notify you when they get a phone in for you. I did this for the 4 (walked in like three days after launch) and ended up getting the phone 6 days after launch. Sooner than a lot of people who preordered. But I still had to wait in line for 3 hours to pick up my phone (this was at Fifth Ave apple store).
This time around I will just be patient and wait for my preorder (10/5 delivery) but if you are eager to get it before Oct, you should try walking in.