I've personally met Chas.
Bought from him a prototype synthesized VFO for the SB-104 line, a matching prototype antenna tuner, engineering proof-of-build SB-230 and a prototype HR-1680 (dark green face).
I have a few things to sort out with the VFO (in the divider chain) and the HV PS for the '230 requires recapping - then I'm going to put the entire ensemble (along with an SB-104A and the usual 104-line accessories) on one of my vintage benches. Seeing the rig and accessories in the Heathkit catalogs of the day as well as in magazines such as Elementary Electronics galvanized my interest in the company and in ham radio in general.