Yeah I understand what you say.
I wouldn't get that one if it is just about 150 Euros or so cheaper than the Fluke. In that case the bet would be a bit too high for me
It depends a bit on the company. Some sell to private and in small amounts and that's not a bad way, too. I got some Photografphic Equipment directly ordered from the manufacturer in China. As you said it was not "cheap" but still a lot less expensive than our european or american counterparts (They design and develop on their own).
To take it short, excellent build quality, very kind service, fast and helpful. With my European Ballhead I had less good experience. It#S OK but overpriced (Designed in Switzerland, made in France). Factory made scratches and notches. No service at all (they really don't have a service line or email but offer you two years warranty). A friend of mine was obsesses with this european company (one of the leaders and pioneers in photo-hardware) but fell down quick. Malfunctioning Ballhead, was searching to find a service line and got one by the German main reseller, called them and was told they call him back because there was no native english speaking Person at the office (huh). got his call after three weeks and they told him to open the Ballhead and fix it on his own....... So much about european premium quality stuff. The chinese stuff has a dent or a screw missing and they send you a new item for free. That's service I expect and if I pay half of the price for an equal product...why not
.
So for me China doesn't automatically mean crap. You have to check and see if it's worth it's money. There is no bad production there is more bad quality control
Don't get me wrong. I am not a fan of china or chinese copying, but I am no fan of overpriced "we have our reputation already" stuff either....
PS:I just noticed their Automotive DMM's. My brothe ruses one for about two years now. They are sold as Voltcraft
http://www.conrad.de/ce/de/product/123240/AT-400-AUTOMOTIVE-MULTIMETERVoltcraft is distributed by Conrad Electronic (one of our biggest electronics suppliers around here) and they just rebrand them. I have a Voltcraft DMM since 12Years in use and it's not bad at all.