I also own a Zeno great watch, it used it a lot, until the strap worn out, and I haven't buy a new one hehe=P.
But really nice, big watches indeed.
With your budget, you can get some nice pieces out there.
The other day I saw a RG Reverso Squadra from JLC with a rubber strap and it looked amazing. While I don't remember the exact Price list, I think it was a couple of grand away from your budget maybe it's worth to wait a little to get sucha a great piece, it was also a limited edition of 500, and it is a big watch.
About your other choices well, like you the AP is my fav, but yes a little out of budget.
The options I really like are, the Panerai 1950 8 days.
the Gefica; I saw this watch a month ago and I'm really into it, and it fits perfectly your budget. It makes a statement on the wrist. I love the WG bi retro. But it's out of budget, also mine hehe.
The Big Bang is an amazing watch I own two, and I'm on the way for my third, so this would be a good option, I would try to get a limited edition, The one you like the most, there are several out there.
Another option I might suggest, Is the Panerai 1936, it is a 48mm radiomir, it's a limited edition, and it's kind of rare to see, I have only see one.
The only thing I don't remember is if it has a calendar. It might.