The first oxide grown using the Czochralski technique (CaWO4) was in 1960. Since that time, the Czochralski technique has become the method of choice for the growth and production of many bulk oxide materials used in the electronics and optical industries, e.g. lasers, substrates, scintillators, nonlinear and passive optical devices. This paper will trace the development of the initial process from its beginnings in the early 1960's to its present state and highlight some of the significant advances over the years that have allowed the oxide crystal growth industry to develop. It will conclude with an assessment of the current status and outline directions for further research and development. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.