OldMicroGuy:
The crystal is socketed so the user can easily experiment with different speeds, if they wish. I believe that Wayne is now using a socket with a tighter fit.
Roger
Yes, like I said originally: "It is a two-edged sword." Some will think it a blessing, some a curse. For the bench, a socket is no big deal. For projects, it could be. Another issue would be serial resistance and the added inductance, although at 16MHz, this is likely no big deal.
My preference would be to have the SB done like the Bobduino... a high-quality 16.000MHz crystal soldered. Hackers would have no issue with desoldering and replacing the crystal. The "screw-down" was a me-to-Crossroads joke.
Ray