Seems like a bit much just to save a little bit of gil (in the form of dark matter). I don't really remember doing very much repairing before 50, but I suppose I must have. Just seems like by the time something was near broken I upgraded it. They did kindly allow for 199% durability through crafter based repairs (and on any job all at once). Since that update I've had no issues at all, but I suppose there is always room for improvement.