I second the pre-Vendome Mare Nostrum. In Navy speak, it was a "plank owner" of the consumer Panerai brand. Having been there at the launch in '93, it didn't survive long into the Richemont era, but what a cool looking piece it was.
Assuming you're not planning to use it as a dive watch, it's an all-purpose fun watch. The original chrono, it's also one of the few Panerais that is recognizable as a different animal from across the a room. The MN is nothing like its siblings Luminor and Radiomir. It has a great story as the descendant of a wartime prototype, and the blue dial is a cool touch.
Plus, they're not making any more of these... a no loss investment if you decide to try something else. But I couldn't imagine why you would be infatuated with it.
Best,
Tim