3 months is also the target for settlement visas. One applicant recently received hers after 8 weeks. It seems to vary widely based up so many determinants such as time of year, etc but luck of the drawer seems to be the key variable.

I am about to call to enquire as to the status of my own wifes application; primarily becuase I can't overlook the fact that showing interest may count for something - you never know!