You might consider giving the couple something for their home, which you can find from their wedding registry (their wish list at a store). Or for something more personal, you could get them something made by a local artist of your region (like a fused glass serving dish, or special pottery teapot) that is totally unique. Or consider giving them a gift of an experience that they can enjoy together, like tickets to a ballet or a cooking class or sporting event (especially one far away from the wedding date, so it is not stressful).

Traditional... Are there traditional gifts? Perhaps a silverware (/cutlery) case. (How many knifes, forks and spoons would they have if everyone gave them a set of 12?) Porcelain? A weekend tour? There is the recent practice of publishing a wish-list. Friends can choose items from this list. You can give anything you like. If you are not too close (related) you don't have to spend much. Do they marry in China? In that case they will have to accept what's local custom. (红包)

Don't get him money. We all know that Germans hate money!

how about crystal decoration?