Very interesting topic!
Considering the DDR tackle, I am familiar with Germina and Fiwa.
Maybe it will sound surprising, but in some parts of Europe, Germina rods have almost cult status.
Especially with the older population.
Consequently, you have an almost paradoxical situation in the second-hand market, where Germina rods are achieving the same or more often even higher prices than much better old fiberglass rods coming from more renowned brands.
For the record, personally, I don't like them so much! They are unbreakable..and that is pretty much their only quality.
On the other hand, in some situations, maybe that is the most important feature.