Like I said , key on, and only the clock is on the radio(when radio is turned off, radio works when turned on). Power windows, and locks work without the key on.
I was starting to think the ignition switch was bad, and even though the key goes to the start position, the switch itself never does, hence the lack of any lights, or gauge movement until it'* in the start position.
I guess I was hoping for someone to say "mine did exactly that, and it was the _________".
No such luck.

Nope, sorry. Ignition switch could do it too.

I think you will have to dive in there with a test light and make sure everything is getting power.

Finally revisited this issue yesterday, after working on many more projects. It was indeed the ignition switch. Just goes to show, use the KISS (keep it simple stupid) method! All good now.