I have an impressive collection of metal and plastic tire levers, some dating back to the 50's, and have never once worried about leaving marks on my rims. My favorites are German "ELDI" levers from the 70's. To me they're kinda like guitar picks, you have to leave enough of them lying around that you can find one any time you look for one.
I'm that way with reading glasses. I buy cheap ones at Costco and leave them in every room in the house and in both cars.