These days, a 21st century Paul Revere might proclaim from atop his digital horse, "The Chromebooks are coming! The Chromebooks are coming!" Coming first to Gilt, that is.

Samsung's Chromebook, a Netbook with the 8-second boot Chrome OS preinstalled, went on sale for $499 several hours ago at the ultra-hip daily fashion deal site Gilt. E-mail invitations from Google were sent out to those who asked to be notified about the availability of Chrome OS computers several months ago, and Engadget reports that you can visit this link to purchase the Chromebook (after signing up for Gilt).

This is a rather surprising play for all parties involved, considering the fire sale is two weeks ahead of the original launch date set at the official Google Chromebook Web site. Gilt is also throwing in a special custom-fit Chrome sleeve designed by San Francisco-based bag company Rickshaw.

Specifications for the Samsung Chromebook have gone unchanged since the official unveil on May 11. The Samsung Chromebook Series 5 has a 12.1-inch display (1,280x800), 8.5 hours of continuous battery life, an Intel Atom dual-core processor, Wi-Fi, HD, a Webcam, two USB 2.0 ports, a 4-in-1 memory card slot, a mini-VGA port, a full-size keyboard, and an oversized clickable trackpad. 3G connectivity is also included, and according to Gilt, "all Chromebook Series 5 3G models include up to 100MB per month of Mobile Broadband service included with device for two years, provided by Verizon. Also available are an unlimited day pass for just $9.99 and pay-as-you-go rates that don't require any long-term contracts."

Samsung and Acer will be exclusive manufacturers of Chromebook devices when the platform officially launches on June 15, with other companies expected to release their versions in the following months.

Get yours before they're sold out.