The custom LCD is ~1$ in bulk, PCB maybe $1-2, Microswitches can be had for like $1-2 usd per 100, probably another $2 in bits and bobs (passives, battery holde

The custom LCD is ~1$ in bulk, PCB maybe $1-2, Microswitches can be had for like $1-2 usd per 100, probably another $2 in bits and bobs (passives, battery holder). CPU is just a cortex M3 IIRC, probably some ADC/DAC, so maybe $5-7 for the "brain" of the thing ? Then shipping, handling, rest of manufacturing (arguably very simple, no case, just board with components). So there is probably still a healthy margin left, not anywhere near "absurdly low", just at that price the volume helps a lot. > (why is OP-1 so absurdly high?!). Coz they know people will buy it. They hold that price used too.