Looks like I'll be receiving the watch tomorrow at some point. It's currently in Germany.
Congrats! The 299 is an amazing replica. The ONLY differences are very fine points on the crown guard that are too small to notice. Also the edge on the gen bracelet has a bevel that is slightly more square. Everything else is virtually identical. As far as the straps... I echo Mysterio. Dont even bother to worry about the price. An expensive strap from Dirk, Mario Paci, or DiStefano (Simona) will take your super rep to the next level. You will forget you are wearing a rep.