I say this with care.
It is the parameters of comparisons I take most seriously.
Keiko Naruse, Kaoru, and even Mr Shinji Hattori were present during my time some years back.
I was so impressed...words were not enough.
I bought over 6 GS, and the solid RG spring drive monster chronograph, and later the Spacewalk...and even now, I plan to return.
There were VERY few, if not none, company visits which I was the trouble maker, asking to buy...and the hosts telling me that they don't sell watches...retailers do.
And there was NO push.
You have seen the handwork, and you have seen at least 10 other western factories.
SEIKO...it is not comparable.
First...it is in the billions of dollars turnover.
Second..it is the way of life.
You were most blessed!!!1
You were indeed VERY fortunate.