still given that the swiss also invented quartz first and look what happened, i think spring is in better hands with Seiko.
until the patent restrictions run out...we will probably see high accuracy automatics in Tag Heuer etc. Swatch has been really aggressive with big strategies with its movements e.g. restriction of ETA, new cheaper higher power reserve mechanicals...
Here states Seiko invented Quartz in 1960, Swiss in 1962. Seiko didn't choose to patent it then
http://www.thewatchsite.com/21-japanese-watch-discussion-forum/31683-seiko-never-patented-quartz-watch.html#/forumsite/20630/topics/31683
Quartz movement it's saw in 1927, by bell a USA company
Tuning fork patent must ran out already no other brands doing it. I readies 30yrs or so.
It's in 1953, 30 yrs it's like what 1983.
Seiko patent was like 1978, so 2008?
Jap is never about 1st to invent something, they are about perfecting the invention. I give credit to both kinds of work. Perfecting something is more impt. Invented but kinda stay the same I wouldn't want such products