The Garmins I've had before the Apple Watch was first released involved getting out an Allen/Torx wrench to change the band. It wasn't until after the Apple Watch came out that I noticed Garmin had quick-release bands. So, though there were arguably quick-release bands before the Apple Watch, you picked a poor example.
Hmmm... what's this little springy thing on my Garmin watch? Oh! check that out! I can replace the bands!
Apple makes cool stuff, I even have some of it, but stop suckin' their butts.