Abstract A number of functionalized and chiral macrocyclic polyethers have been synthesized by condensation of the dithallium alcoholate of (R, R)-(+)-tartaric acid derivatives with α, ω-dihalides. In this way for instance, the tetracarboxylic [18]-O 6 macrocycle 3c and its derivatives become readily available. They form complexes with various cationic substrates. NMR. and crystal-structure data provide information about the ...