Sure they last.
He doesn't do most of it himself...he gets a professional wheelbuilder to do it & then sells at discounted prices.New & complete heavy-duty wheels made to spec that he sells for $100 bicycle shops sell for $200.
Go to the Port Market Sun(or Mon public holidays) & take a look around,see him at the bike stall & talk about building a heavy-duty sealed bearing wheel from scratch(i'm assuming 36H)
Expect to pay around $120 for something good & all parts new...around $80 if u supply the rim.
Any further info call me on 82404091.