They were known as the lawsuit brand because Fender took them to court and lost. The quality was in fact so good they were indeed favoured even over the US Strat although get a purist to admit that lol
Back around the early 80's I bought my first real guitar I had the chance to buy one of these for about £150 but I opted to buy an Ibanez Blazer instead, attempting to be different lol . Alas for me it has to be said that the Tokai is a far superior and indeed more valuable guitar.
I would say well worth the money good find
Phil