Clock experiments

[custodian]

Thanks for a very comprehensive summary.

The basis of their OP rating is interesting: I can only assume that the unavailable oscillator for the OP is actually the Oscilloquartz 8607. This was available in performance selected versions which might relate to their 16 and 17 levels.

The reason for the demise of this crystal is the difficulty of getting good yields. In simple terms, all components in the oscillator including the suspension are made from slices of the same crystal, removing any thermal or mechanical discontinuities which would affect performance.

The new owners of Oscilloquartz felt that the complexity and yield are no longer commercially viable. As mentioned, some alternative structures are in development and might appear. Remember though that the Audio market is not a significant customer for such products so it is not really in a position to drive the market.

Cost is certainly going to be an issue too. Given the near $40k price for the discontinued Sforzato clock which used the 8607.

The 8607 certainly gives the "wow" factor, so I hope that alternatives at similar performance emerge before too long.