I have uncovered much more information. There is no tie at all to Hoshino, Star, or Pearl. Yamamoto made Gracy, then became Gracy. They were a second tier after the big three, not in quality, just in production numbers. I have found some Japanese insiders who have been clearing much up. So I was completely wrong in my speculation, and also wrong for not including Yamamoto as a manufacturer. I hope this clears a little up. And thank you for getting the book! Marc