The original cross bar design was developed by Sperry, and indeed the first flight director was the Sperry Zero Reader...fitted to many models of the DC-6 and several Lockheed Constellation aircraft...a long time ago.
Collins later on developed the 'V' (or command) bar design, and this type was used on many early civil jet transport types.
At first glance, the Collins 'V' bar design seems more useful, but I personally have developed over the years a preference for the Sperry cross bar design, as I personally find it
much more accurate for CATII/III approaches.
Just a matter of opinion, of course, and I'm sure you will get others as well.
Hope this helps!
