A distressed purchase is something one buys because one has to buy it, no matter the situation or cost at the time of purchase. One hopes that everyone else—husbands, wives, significant others (and your bank account)—will understand. But in the end it doesn't matter if they do or don't. You're buying it anyway and will apologize later. Because you know you'll never have another opportunity.
It can be an item that shows up on eBay or the aftermarket after many years of waiting. Or an item that is the final piece of a special kit. Or an item where one does not wish to settle for a used sample down the road. Or even an expensive bucket list item. But most often it's simply an item that has been discontinued by the manufacturer, and this is your last and final chance to get one.
So... 50 more rolls of Provia 400X 120. This to be added to the 35 rolls previously purchased. To be added to the 40 rolls purchased before that. To be added to the 5 rolls I already had in the freezer.
That adds up to 130 rolls in deep freeze. At my rate of usage over Provia 100F this should provide a comfortable cushion until Ferrania can bring their own version online. And if the unforeseen happens and they can't, then it's a multi-year stash for me to enjoy.
Ken