From another forum:

http://www.practicalmachinist.com/vb...ad.php?t=81970

and:

http://www.practicalmachinist.com/vb...ad.php?t=82667

and one more:

http://www.practicalmachinist.com/vb...ad.php?t=82541

Granted, it is another internet forum, so take anything with skepticism, but I really think some of these guys know what they are talking about.

The short version: the tool industry is very incestuous. The major players in the US are Stanley (Proto and the like), Danaher (mentioned previously in this thread) and Snap-on (who also now owns Williams [edited, said Armstrong]). A lot of different branded tools are made by just a few players.

Edit: I lied, here is one more link:
http://www.team.net/www/morgan/tech/whotools.html

further edit: I will say though, for years(until 1995), Snap-on produced the best calendar. At least if you're attracted to pretty women.