I don't know about any "status symbol", but I do know that Deb and I both quit smoking last July.
We each smoked for over 25 years.
Those E cigs made it seem possible, and although we had determined to quit anyway, I credit the e cigs for keeping us from "cheating".

I have a cheap rechargeable one now that uses disposable tips.
It is a green smart product that uses a vegetable based "nicotine".
Deb rarely touches them at all now.