My opinion is that you are paying a lot for a name.
If you are a collector, it's worth it.
If it's just for playing there are a ton of great production cues for under $2000.
And a lot of customs from lessor known makers for $2000 or less.
Worst cue was a Meucci I bought in about 1985 or so.
The cue played great, but the ferrule cracked and it warped with in 6 months and I never let it get too hot or cold.
Another poster complained about a Schmelke cue being terrible, my Schmelke is perfect.
Irving Crane 141 balls early '60's in Elizabeth N.J. and it was not West End.
The longest run against me was by Neptune Joe Frady (RIP).
He was playing me 100 to 80.
He broke and I ran 53 balls and missed.
He ran 100 and out.