Coming in a bit late on this, but I've been using a Moore & Wright micrometer (ordinary mechanical type) for some years with no problems.

Going back to eyeglasses, this from the CPC catalogue (UK based) is an excellent solution to working in your own shadow: http://cpc.farnell.com/linear-tools/59-615-010/loupe-x10-mag-illuminated/dp/PY31606