Just for the record, the design is NOT finalized until the PROCESS is finalized. They go hand in hand. They might have had A0 taped out, but that really doesn't mean squat. You HAVE to make the parts and find out what parts of the process are not compatible with your current design. Then, you have to choice one of two paths: redesign the part or redesign the process. Usually, there will be some minor modes to the A series (only a few masks changed at criticle steps) and then a major redesign comes out. There will usually (but not always) be a rev or two of this stepping before the part is certified for ship release.
So, they might have been waiting on the process, but they still where waiting at that 80% range, not 100% ready to go. Unless you are in the industry, you really can't comprehend the complexity of a modern IC (and more importantly, the complexity of all steps required to build it!). Heck, most of the people in the industry don't really understand the complexity (because they never bothered to look beyond their own little area).
Personally, I am very disappointed with what I have seen so far with the FX. I do realize that all the tests have been run on beta drivers and I do have an idea how much room the FX has to improve. But I don't think I will be spending any money on the FX. I currently have a very old, long in the tooth GF2 Ultra in my box and I am going to be buying a new card withing the next month or so. I was originally holding out for the FX, but at this point, unless something dramatic happens in the next month, ATI is going to be getting my money for a 9700 Pro.