Like many others, vv mod would be the way to go before going mechanical. There's really no need for a mech mod unless you are using RBA's or RDA's (rebuildable atomizers / rebuildable drip atomizers) and those will be a huge pain until you get the hang of it. Lavatube v2 is really good for the price (there's a ton of others as well, but since I have one I thought I'd throw it in there). As for the tank, for simplicity I'd go with the Kanger Protank, or if you want to use cartomizers (which I like better) the Artemas tank is a good one. It's got a locking ring so your carto's can't slip out.
However, if you absolutely insist on getting a mechanical I'll say +1 for the Smoktech Magneto. I've been vaping a couple years now, just got one (my first mech) and it's a really nice mod for $45. It's got a magnetic button, so no bad springs or loose buttons. The lock is very smooth and it feels completely solid. The thing you have to keep in mind though is it's got a bottom button so you can't just set it down anywhere, you have to be careful about where you leave it laying. You'll also need something to check resistance. Either a multimeter or one of those screw on stands. I just use my lavatube once I'm finished making the coil and adjust it from there
However, if you absolutely insist on getting a mechanical I'll say +1 for the Smoktech Magneto. I've been vaping a couple years now, just got one (my first mech) and it's a really nice mod for $45. It's got a magnetic button, so no bad springs or loose buttons. The lock is very smooth and it feels completely solid. The thing you have to keep in mind though is it's got a bottom button so you can't just set it down anywhere, you have to be careful about where you leave it laying. You'll also need something to check resistance. Either a multimeter or one of those screw on stands. I just use my lavatube once I'm finished making the coil and adjust it from there