Don,
Welcome. There are lots of differing viewpoints in this forum, which allow for thorough examination of the issues. Then, you can make a choice that you are comfortable with.
For electronic counters, there are a few threads regarding various counters. One thread is https://measure.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/89510622/m/7741023332. You can find others in the Electronic Counters topic. Review as many as you can, then go forward.
There is a new mechanical Jones that will be available shortly, and appears to be sturdier than old versions. It has its own topic, so you can read all about it there.
I use an electronic counter. It is a Veeder-Root. The model escapes me (as I am at work and can't look at it), but it was about $120, I believe. I chose it because if I overshoot a point, I can ride my bike back to any point on the correct course while the counter counts-down, then turn around and continue measuring (have to flip a switch, but no big deal). I saw in one of Neville's posts that there is a cheaper VR available that will do the same thing. https://measure.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/89510622/m/3831057932 Don't know what the differences are, but I like mine - illuminated, reversible. The Protoge is not reversible, and is not illuminated. I also like the larger numbers on my VR.
Bottom line is, there are electronic options available, and there will be a new model of the Jones available shortly.
Happy reading!