There are some very old, very well respected, companies who used to make sweet tools. But I wouldn't get your heart set on owning any of their new stuff. It's all just "tool shaped objects" these days.
Here's how I would very quickly inspect a new plane as part of the initial setup to see if it's any good. I feel it's important to note that the plane I'm demonstrating with here, a Lie-Nielsen No. 62 Low Angle Jack Plane is an actual tool. It is NOT a tool shaped object, and is worth every penny. Also, this is not a sponsored post. My posts will always be #NeverSponsored.
"Always Never Sponsored" - There are some grammarians out there having fits right now. My wife would probably be among them if she actually read this blog.
Anyway, here's the video. The next one will actually show you how to set tup the plane for use.