Looks like the Conquests are assembled here in the USA. IIRC they are actually assembled on the same Meopta production line as the Swaro Z3 and some Minox scopes.
http://www.exploreproducts.com/zeiss...iflescopes.htm

Ive heard the new Conquest HD5s may be coming from Germany but i haven't seen one yet.

Some parts are imported but Leupold also uses imported parts including glass on cheaper models. About the only thing they don't out source is the tube. The Conquest and Leupold Schott lenses are actually made here in the USA with some imported glass like Ohara.

Considering the OP asked about the Conquest 3x9x40, i dont see how the Conquest eye relief can be labeled as "stinks". Its so close to a similar magnification VXR and VX3 but it remains at a near constant 4" when you increase magnification. The Conquest is also very close in weight and length to the VXR 3x9x40.

The sub $400 deals on the older 3x9x40 Conquests make it one of the best values you can find.