Eko guitars were widespread here in Italy in 70s. They were decent guitars at an affordable price. I had a Rio Bravo 6, and my young sister bought a Rio Bravo 12 because a famous Italian songwriter used it. She still owns it and it sounds like the first day - that is, not bad at all.
Back then, when you entered the circles of committed guitarists, your Eko was promptly disdained; the minimum allowed was a Yamaha, but your supposed final aim was to put together enough money to buy a Martin. I soon realized, though, that I could travel under any weather with my Eko, play it in front of a campfire, and not worry about. So, even when I got other guitars, it still had its place in my room (and elsewhere), until one day in the 90s I decided to try how does it feel to be an idiot and borrowed it to a guy I never saw again. I hope he takes care of it, now, better than I did.