I suspect thinking it 'odd' has more to do with our modern mindset to be honest. Close male platonic relationships that have failed to raise eyebrows have a long history; Laurel & Hardy, Charters & Caldicott and Martin & Lewis, being just a few 'room sharers' that spring to mind.
Eric did smoke his pipe in bed to reinforce his masculinity though and did have some qualms about the scenes; a sign of changing attitudes in itself.
We have drifted away from praising Phil's offering a bit now though.