We're investigating several alternatives to ensure leadtimes remain as accurate as possible.
Even small changes could upset the delicate balance we've maintained between getting snipes in on time and winning and not in times. Especially during peak periods. In general the bidding system is not something we make changes to lightly. "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." The trick is making sure snipes remain within an acceptable limit, even during the peaks. Obviously the closer to your set time being best as long as the risk of missing the snipe is kept minimal. Believe me people that lose an item are a lot more upset than those with a snipe 5-10 seconds earlier than they'd have liked.
Missed snipes and early snipes are probably our 2 biggest issues, and it's a delicate balance keeping both sides happy.