I started guitar in my late 40s - I guess my perspective is not common but getting a good quality tone was important for me right from the beginning as it inspired me to continue even at a basic level where as I would have quit had I not moved up from the crappy gear I started with. I don't believe the commonly held opinion that beginners cannot hear/appreciate nuances of guitar tone that more advanced players can - I could always hear it, maybe because I've always been an avid fan of guitar based music. I actually think good tone is more important for a beginner as it removes key variables of concern for a player that will benefit a from one less thing to worry about (ie extreme case: playing a guitar that won't stay in tune with unfixably too high action into an invariably farty/fizzy amp or modeller) - I think great tone inspires great playing at any level. Another argument is that expensive gear for beginner is a waste of money if the player does not stick with it - I'm not down with that angle either as good gear will hold value better than cheap stuff.
I guess for me the ratio above has been more like 2 or 3 to 1, and one could say id be a lot better today with a higher ratio, but had it started and stayed at 5 or 6 to 1, I really don't think i'd still be playing guitar today.