If you look at people's experience with mid-range Shimano, you may find he has a long ride ahead of him before he gets to that river. 105/Ultegra hubs will outlast several sets of rims if you keep on top of the cleaning and maintenance.
Re. durability the classic rear has manageable chain slack in the 12-17. Has been serviced by trusted mechanic and is working. Conundrum being: to overhaul this issue same mechanic would probably need too much time to make it worthwhile. But they are as reliable as anything from Shimano.
I give up.
Dont buy CK hubs Bezzin, buy cheap 105 ones and just chuck them in river when they die and buy another set.