I do know where your comming from, in the same boat actualy. Im a Omega man at heart. I have been around RWG about six weeks. I agree with you about the overwelming selection of Pams I am quite facinated with the brand and history of the watch maker. I can spend $$$$ 400-500 on a rep if need be,I just dont think it is nessasary (imho) I have just orderd a pam 217 Destro (47mm) from Andrew.($168) My second rep. I feel that this wach captures the heratage of Panerai. A very rare piece indeed. It is very ,very close to the gen, magnificent. I was tempted to ask the dreeded "who has the best???. Im glad that I did the research. I have discovered so much in the last two weeks. I learn very little when the answear is easy. Thats what makes it a hobby for me. Its the hunt not the capture. Although the results of your efforts are rewarding. Take a look at that 217 and tell me what you think. As far as I can see the rep bands/ straps are of poor quality. I have a custom strap being made as we speek. The ss bands look good for the most part, more so on the pams. Good luck and happy hunting Mike