I'm in the original universe and am ranked in the 4600s. I've just recently unlocked the Hephasteus, but like the Zeus, I have no desire to build anything of the sort right at this very moment. I'm trying to build up my planetary defenses and support fleet before I start building a ton of Zeus'. I'm not big into attacking actives, despite the fact that I've apparently attracted the attention of some asshole in the 500 rankings who must have nothing better to do with their time than probe me. My main strategy is to try to remain an unattractive target. I realize the higher I get in rank, the harder that will be, but I've devoted this much time to the game, might as well keep trying.
As for strategy, fleetsave is God and resource and colony building will help the game go a lot faster.