Jean, The Metal Tip on my Dial Indicator looks like a small Ball Bearing, but it doesn't roll. As a friend mentioned to me, it would as well be a simple matter of covering the tip with a small piece of Cellophane Tape to prevent any acratching of Platter Surface. This would probably insure better accuracy rather than a makeshift Platter Mat.
I would assume VPI would do this service if you sent Platter-Bearing, but the shipping cost alone would probably equate to the cost of the Tools, and then you have them for future use.
The Vacuum Base Stand that I ordered with the Indicator from Harbor Freight is a quite massive, and heavy piece, and very nicely built. The Dial Indicator is as well, a quality piece. I feel I got more than my money's worth with this tool.
I would assume everytime I remove Platter for Lubrication service of Bearing, that getting the Platter positioned exactly again on the Bearing Flange is virtually impossible. Mark