when driving the car I lose what appears to be all electrical power for 1 to 3 seconds (loss of all gauge indications, indicator lights, ignition)
if power is off for a short period, the car restores itself; if off longer, I need to restart the engine.
I checked all visible connections on the battery, fuse and relay box; all are tight. (I did not check the ignition switch, yet).
Most times I can drive the car with no problem, however yesterday it happened three times within a few minutes of each other; and then was okay to get back home.
Any ideas?

Thanks for the help.
Michael

It seems like the ignition switch to me...
Have you check all fuses also? Just to be safe? Corrossion is possible... I am not sure how this would affect the problem you describe, but no harm no foul!
Good luck.

Electrical open
 

Since the 30 wire (always battery voltage) feeds all accessory and run conditions, it may be possible to monitor voltage to an "always on" component, such as the clock or parking lights. Jump wire a low wattage bulb and socket, such as a test light into one of those circuits and place it where you can see it safely while driving. If it stays lighted when the engine dies, the problem is most likely in the ignition switch. The same test can be used on the 15 wire from the switch after you know that the 30 circuit is always live.