You are not cheap. You are just living within your means! It is a foreign concept for most folks, who all seem to coincidentally as middle class. What a stupid concept.
As for things I don’t mind paying a premium for, phones are one of them because so much of my livelihood is associated with it. Along the lines of things I use over 4 hours per day, eyeglasses are worth a premium in my mind. Gimping one of my most important senses with cheap lenses just doesn’t add up. Plus, I am not style obsessed by any stretch of the imagination but glasses are front and center with every interaction I have, whether business or social. Knowing I will use a pair for years makes me feel alright spoiling myself a little.
You probably may know but you were highlighted by asean hive for good reason. Here’s to you old friend.
RE: I am selectively stingy with certain things in my life