The thing about the cross cuts is that they are easier to build, and have a theorethical "smoother" surface. In the beginning the cloth was intended to bring down prices, but I can't see that happening yet. I can attest to the building part, but I dont know about the surface. They sure do look nice..

I suppose Charlie want the best and instead of spending a year or five developing a sail he buys the best. Makes sense, particularly for a sailmaker.
What I find most interesting is that we still dont have a "best practice" for battens on square tops.

The A-cat worlds will be really interesting. I sure hope for lots of stories and pics from that event! Wings, new sails, new platforms, old heroes, old warhorses, world champs from other classes.. It's got all the right ingredients.
Are you going Bill? Can't see you on the list of participants.