A number of the core pieces you will find at the Tumi Outlets are the design from the older Generation 4 line, especially in black. Nothing wrong or too much different with them quality-wise, but as you mentioned they do not have monogram patches and the zippers tuck underneath. Gen 4 is not the current line or sold by mainline Tumi, but it appears to still be made for the outlets and sites like Gilt. Either that or they still have a ton of old stock. You may be able to get current Alpha pieces in recently discontinued models and colors other than black. Generally, a current piece will have a "Tumi" badge that is black and rectangular. A Gen 4 badge is silver with rounded corners and there is no monogram patch.

There are also tons of pieces at outlets from their other lines. Quality, availability and price/value on these vary a great deal. Usually the best deals are on discontinued stuff they are trying to move out and occassionally I have gotten great value on these types of pieces.