Just called my local store to make an appointment for Thursday. Here's the conversation I had with the rep:
Me: I'd like to make an appointment on Thursday to pick up a Galaxy Nexus.
Rep: We're not taking appointments, so it's going to be first come first serve.
Me: So the Galaxy Nexus will be launching on Thursday?
Rep: Yes.
Me: In that case, would you be able to put a phone on hold for me? I'm not going to be able to be there right at store opening.
Rep: No, I can't put one on hold, but we're not going to sell out on the first day. We have a bunch of phones.
Me: If you don't mind me asking, how many would you say you have?
Rep: I'd say we have just over 200 in stock.
Me: Over 200? Holy cow.