Vintage
HSTE's acquisition of the Breitling ref. 817 CP-1 E.I. chronograph offers a rare glimpse into a highly specialized military-issued timepiece. This article delves into the unique characteristics and historical context of this watch, which was exclusively produced for Italian Army helicopter pilots in 1974/1975. HSTE's detailed account and accompanying photographs provide invaluable insights for collectors interested in military chronographs and the nuances of their historical production.
Having in the family already the Leonidas "E.I." and the Heuer Bunds ("regular, "3H" and "Sternzeit Reguliert") there was of course pressure to add to the family the Breitling 817. And here you go.
This is one of those 40 pieces that were "up for auction" by the Italian Government in October 2016.
The watches were produced only in 1974/1975 and the Breitling 817 was never offered in a civilian version. The watches have a military service number engraved on the outside of the caseback (made unreadable on my pictures) whilst the Breitling serial number is on the inside of the caseback (again, made unreadable on my pictures).
The watches were delivered on a Japanese steel expanding bracelet. Also interesting is that the lume of the hands (honey color) is totally different from the lume on the dial (green). This seems to be normal and correct and I suspect that Breitling used two different suppliers who were - on the color front - not well aligned on the lume scheme.
The movement is a Valjoux 236.
Cheers, HSTE
The Panerai Luminor reference 817 is a chronograph model from the 1970s, representing a distinct departure from the brand's more common time-only or simple date configurations of the era. This reference showcases Panerai's capability in producing more complex instrumentation, aligning with its historical role as a supplier of specialized tools. It stands out in the Luminor family for its specific chronograph functionality, which was not a standard offering across the broader Luminor collection. Its design reflects the utilitarian aesthetic prevalent in professional-grade timepieces of its period.
The case of the Luminor 817 is crafted from stainless steel, featuring the characteristic Luminor crown protection device. The watch houses a manual-winding mechanical movement, providing reliable timekeeping and chronograph operation. While specific dimensions can vary slightly across examples, it typically presents a substantial wrist presence consistent with its intended use. The crystal protecting the dial is likely acrylic, a common material for watches of this vintage, offering durability and ease of maintenance.
This reference appeals to collectors interested in Panerai's less common and more technically involved historical pieces. It offers a glimpse into the brand's diversification beyond its core dive watch offerings, highlighting its engineering capabilities in the mid-20th century. The 817 is a notable example for those seeking a vintage Panerai with chronograph functionality, distinguishing it from the more frequently encountered time-only Luminor models.
It makes sense to help complete your military set. It is on my list but I am afraid it may go unrequited. Cheers! -joe
And what a two tones lume (private joke ๐). Best wishes Alkiro
Huge congratulation, my friend! Best Blomman
Sadly, none were from the 40 or so sold by the Ministero della Difesa, some of which came with original boxes and bracelets. That one is in the best condition I have seen so far. Congratulations!
Possible for a picture of the family together? Congrats again. Cheers PAt
.... where the lume on the hands was partially gone. Cheers, HSTE
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