If none of this matters, then just what are the guys at Holley talking about with this gizmo?
Distributor Phasing and Lockout Kit

"Correct distributor phasing is a must to insure maximum ignition performance"

Or the guys at Pertronix?
Flame Thrower HEI Distributors
"A specially designed vacuum lockout mechanism prevents timing adjustments that change rotor phasing, adversely affecting the burn time and efficient fuel combustion"

Or the guys at CarCraft?
Car Craft on HEI rotor Phasing
"When the distributor rotor aligns with the cap terminal)...

...the magnetic pickup’s stationary-and rotating-pole pieces should, likewise, be in exact alignment. If misalignment exists on GM-type distributors . . ."

:rolleyes:

[Linked Image from 49fastback.com]