For a start. Let's rule out bog-standard supermarket brand knives. You may save a bit, but you already know that the savings have been made on the the quality, the finishing and the hardening and tempering of the steel.
I see two main runners in this competition
versus 
It could be described as a competition between the new & the old, or between youth & experience.
From Germany, Henckels have been making knives in the tradition of steelworkers for over 200 years, and one of the proofs of their quality is their longevity.
From Japan, Global have only been in business for 25 years, but they have taken the world by storm by their breathtaking design and exquisite cutting ability.
Both companies have been given plenty of backing by the worlds master chefs, and both are "global" brands. To tell the truth until they both send me some free stuff, I'll just hesitate on making my final decision.
