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Originally Posted by Cathar
If being an unimaginative uninnovative copier of successful products is what it takes to remain successful in the 21st century, then I for one openly weep for the future.
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In the '50 and early '60's this was the situation with Japanese manufactured goods (excepting ceramics which I think most folks at the time simply weren't aware of).
"Made in Japan" meant "junk". The phrase even got used for stuff that
wasn't made in Japan, but was shoddily made.
Then their manufacturing quality got a lot better - and they started to innovate. The first chain-driven OHC motor I ever saw was a Honda. There was a
big innovation in the approach to manufacturing materials: build with easy-to-machine materials, surface treat for use
after machining (if necessary).
It's still a useful technique, all-be-it less than wonderful when you wear through the surface treatment on a brake rotor - but remember that the US automobiles of the time were designed to be used like dixie cups - use 'em for a couple of years and toss 'em.