I know what you are saying.
On the cost side of things, the most expensive rack I've owned was a Blackburn rear rack bought over 20 yrs ago. I have other reasonably priced racks that have worked fine for many years for my needs, so for me spending this much really wouldn't be something I'd do. If I were to go on a far flung trip, I could see spending for a traditional top rated rack, but I'm not doing that.

Thule does have a good reputation for quality engineered and built stuff, as you say , time will show how the mounting system (i mean the actual hardware) holds up over time.