Zonda, why so negative?
I assume we are both trying to help the OP but this is getting annoying.
You are perfectly willing to recommend him a "cheap" Apache for drilling holes in the sky VFR vs gaining experience on the type that he will fly
And other Captains specifically DO request a FO as they get paid more when they do. So what's you point? That's a hypothetical question so no need to answer.
And what is wrong with SIC time? Obviosuly the OP is not hired on as Captain since he lacks the ME time for the job.
So Zonda I would suggest we stay out of each other's way, promote our opinion (that's all it is) and let the OP make an informed decision as to what he wants to do.