Panerai Authenticity

First off, I'm not overly familiar with these watches. Having said that I realize the answer to my question could likely be "duh"! but stay with me lol.

Is there a relatively easy way to confirm the authenticity of a Panerai? Perhaps a serial number look up or something? I ask because my budget is likely less than many here but ainhave really taken a liking to the brand. Realistically I would likely be looking at something used but I don't even trust many of the dealers around here. Fakes are getting more and more sophisticated and even on brands I'm very familiar with it sometimes has taken me a few minutes to spot something obvious. Here I'm drowning fast lol. Thanks for the time.