I like your attitude, JD. When I was new here it was daunting and confusing, but several experienced members helped me out (while others couldn't be bothered). It seems to me things have become more hostile here than in the old days, but it is what it is.
With that being said, welcome!
The dealers I prefer are Hont, In-Time, and Narikaa. Don't be sucked in by any dealer hype about "1:1", "Swiss", "waterproof", "made by dissecting a gen" etc. Evern our TDs have those things on their web sites to compete for non-forum member business with other dealers on the internet. It's all crap. And don't be tempted by a $10-25 savings -- the watches are mostly the same from dealer to dealer. What you typically pay extra for is the way the dealer treats you and communication. And in my opinion it's worth avoiding the bargain-basement dealers.
Don't be fooled by slick web sites and pics - many of the best dealers don't have web sites as they prefer to stay under the radar. Just find a pic of the watch you want (either a gen pic or off another dealer) and send it to the dealer of choice along with a brief and simple (think 2nd grade) description of what you want.
Do your research on the watch you want first - make sure you know which version you want (if different versions are available) and how to tell the difference, along with what movement you want before you contact the dealer. The dealer cannot prepare a PowerPoint presentation for you on all the pros and cons of every available Submariner rep, say. So read buyers reviews and discussions here and make your decisions first.
Do not expect a perfect exact replica watch - there will always be flaws/tells, but they are for the most part very minor. Keep your expectations realistic and you'll be happy.
There is rarely a significant advantage to paying extra for a Swiss movement over a clone.
No watch is waterproof until you personally have it tested.
Automatic chronograph watches are much more problematic - know this before you order a watch with an A7750 movement.
If you buy a rep with the A7750 movement, never (or at least rarely) run the chronograph. It's just not worth the risk.
Good luck to you!