Breitling Chronograph 817 Italian Military Issue
Introduced in 1975 with the specific intention to be a tool watch for the Italian Army’s helicopter pilots, the Breitling ref. 817 is a timepiece that indeed lives up to the billing as a watch intended for hard wear and rigorous use in the field. The ref. 817 was even used by the Battaglione Paracadutisti Carabinieri Tuscania and their platoon commanders. A regiment of elite soldiers, they would first be fully trained as Carabinieri (Military police) and then receive the training required to become paratroopers at the “Folgore” Paratroopers Brigade School in Livorno, Tuscany. Utilized in high-risk missions, they would hunt kidnappers, the mafia, and the infamous Camorra - an underground Italian criminal society. With only 500 pieces ever produced, most of which were destroyed during decommissioning, the Breitling ref. 817 is an incredibly rare watch that provides a tangible link between Breitling and their military-serving past.
Brand : Breitling
Dimensions : 39.5mm
Model : Italian Military Chronograph
Movement : Manual wind Valjoux cal. 236
Reference : 817
Bracelet : Leather strap
Year : Circa 1975
Condition : Very good
Material : Stainless steel
Included : Watch only
Dial Color : Black
THE DIAL A dark black dial with large luminous Arabic hour markers and equally large hands, the ref. 817 was designed for optimum legibility in the field where low-light conditions could be disastrous when timing critical military operations.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information. Please note that the timekeeping of the watch is poor, and a service is recommended.
THE CONSTRUCTION Boasting a robust stainless steel construction that speaks to the demands placed upon the ref. 817 by those who wore it, this military-issue chronograph epitomizes Breitling's niche as a watchmaker.
