I've had problems with Apple Hydraulics workmanship on cylinder sleeving, including leaking sleeves. They also damaged bleeder screw seats when re-drilling the bleeder hole off-center. Their customer service left a lot to be desired. I don't remember the details but I seem to remember that I could never reach the relevant person regarding a refund and/or he didn't return calls. When I was restoring my 170 V, I think I talked to them about the lever shocks, but they didn't seem to know about German shocks. I wouldn't use them for anything at this point.
It is surprising how long the original shocks last. I wouldn't assume that they are no good just because they are old. Also there is a substantial difference in resistance between collapsing the shock and extending it, intentionally by design, compared with other cars. So even though you will find very little resistance collapsing, this is normal.