Like all new cameras in their initial launch, price is normally higher due to high demand. Even the mighty X-Pro1 and Nex 7 is gradually falling in price to a more decent level. E.g. X100 for example, was sold initially at $1,699 (first few weeks) and then dropped to a more stable price around $1,300. You can probably get a brand new set at $1.2k+ now.
Buy now if you can't wait, or save some cash if not in hurry, especially after the initial hot demand.
As for cases, there are not many choices currently given that it is such a new camera. You can find half cases now with the best is from Gariz, or just get the original one (light brown one colour) which are both nice except colour preference. Full case with top cover, don't think it is available yet, but Gariz has produced those for other models before, and won't be surprised if they make one for X-E1. Local shops won't bring in this though, and it is not sellable here.