I picked up a Rapha merino jersey last year on sale from a clearance outlet and it turned out to be one of the best I've ever had. I've worn it in temps from 5-20C in total comfort and it washes great. I've also got a Cannondale mtb shirt that is literally 20 years old and yet refuses to die after maybe 1000 washes! I've seen 6 month old shirts in worse condition.
Based on my first Rapha purchase, I bought a pair of their cargo bibs and a gilet, both of which are awesome. My one and only foray into cheap bibs didn't go well. Ended up with two nasty rubbing scars along the inside of my thighs after a hot 3 hour ride. Plus side to that experience is that I don't now mind spending top money on bibs. I wouldn't say jerseys are anything like as critical, but I do value quality. I have a few Le Col jerseys and bibs, which are also pretty good. But I now prefer the Rapha kit.