@helomech: I don't know of any evidence that Technics sold off the original tooling for the Technics 1200. According to Technics, one of the reasons they discontinued its manufacture was that the tooling was worn out. Since they made millions of the thing, I find this easy to believe!
My understanding is that Technics was the first to introduce a direct drive turntable. The Technics SL 1100, out in 1971 had an "S" tonearm and was direct drive. The 1200 came out in 1972. The first commercial direct drive turntable was the Technics SP 10 but this was intended for radio stations, generally.
My understanding is that Technics was the first to introduce a direct drive turntable. The Technics SL 1100, out in 1971 had an "S" tonearm and was direct drive. The 1200 came out in 1972. The first commercial direct drive turntable was the Technics SP 10 but this was intended for radio stations, generally.