there is misinformation that the look frames were litespeed built - as far as I can tell, someone said that once on the internet and it caught on. I am pretty sure they were made in Spain by a company that no longer exists. as it goes.
but I hear you, id not pay 1900 for one since a Merlin is probably way better! and I prefer the kg282 with the matte finish... but finding one is like.. forget about it.