My tool boxes are filled with older Starrett and older Mitutoyo tools. Both are marked made in USA and Japan. I'm very wary of anything that doesn't plainly say where it was made. I've got some very nice Lufkin tools as well. Made in the USA!
Personally, I really dislike starrett, just doesn't feel right, and I especially don't like their last word indicator. I have been in aerospace machining for many, many years, and one company, Garrett turbine engine company/ Airesearch, sold them exclusively in their store, but that was back in 1978. I think the quality was better back then compared to now. However, for the hobby machinist, they may work for you. I tend to prefer brown and sharpe as well as mitutoyo.
The craziest thing I saw a few years ago was a plastic digital caliper, probably at Harbor Freight. I do have a 6" metal model they have on sale sometimes which is fine for what I used them for.
The best bang for the buck today is Mitutoyo.
...does that include the Brazilian Mitutoyo stuff? I need a dial indicator with a magnetic base, and it seems like everything else I already know - three different options: crummy import stuff, good used that may or may not work when you get it, and good new that's outside my price range. The Mitutoyo stuff is right where I want to be, price-wise! but I have fears...