You probably will never get tha 'inevitable' question as you say. In twenty years I've never even been asked about a watch I was wearing. But if I ever was why would I lie? That would mean I was using my rep to impress others and get in chicks pants.
These are the reasons I've always giggled at the obseesions over these things. Comparing the details between this and that rep. Rolex isn't even consistent. And it's not just with fonts either.
I've punched out markers and replaced them with better ones. If you left the dial off you would see the datewheel. don't think it would be very attractive.
People don't buy auto watches for accuracy. Regardless they are $100 copies of $10,000 watches so 30 seconds or less is acceptable. It will after all still be the same minute.
Ultimately the most reliable movement is the one you keep serviced. Better yet a fully serviced handbuilt watch. But out of the box you'll have more long term reliability with the 21J. It will still be running long after you are bored with the watch and have stopped wearing it.
Like Doc said it wouldn't say 'Panerai'. and that's why people buy reps. You can't impress your boss, get in chicks pants or make people think you're more affluent than you are with a Seiko.
The prices have gone up which is natural. But recent demand for lower prices has resulted in a lot of bargain versions which are either missing things that they used to have or are lower quality parts.