Seiko Instruments Inc. designs, develops, and manufactures timepieces and electronics components in Japan. The company’s electronic components include semiconductors, quarz crystal products, micro batteries, compact lithium ion batteries, Co-Ni alloy products, and rare earth magnets; printers that include thermal printers and inkjet printhead products; and machine tools that include grinders, FA systems, and precision turned parts for businesses. It also offers metronomes and tuners for personal applications. Seiko Instruments Inc. was formerly known as Seiko Instruments & Electronics, Ltd. and changed its name to Seiko Instruments Inc. in 1987. The company was founded in 1937 and is based in Chiba-shi, Japan. As of October 1, 2009, Seiko Instruments Inc. operates as a subsidiary of Seiko Holdings Corporation.