
HSTE presents a comprehensive family portrait of his military CP-1 and CP-2 type watches, fulfilling a previous promise to the community. His detailed comparison highlights the distinct characteristics of various models, including Heuers, Leonidas, Breitling, and Zenith, offering valuable insights into their case finishes, lug designs, and strap sizes.
The three Heuers are obviously "Bund" versions (plain, 3H, Sternzeit Reguliert) and the two on the left and the one at the front are Italian Army versions.
What is quite interesting is the comparably small size of the Breitling 817. It is also the only one that goes on a 18mm strap.
As the the cases, the three Heuers have sand-blasted-type of cases with rounded lugs, whilst the Leonidas and the Breitling 817 have shiny, edgy cases and lugs. The Zenith is a bit of a mix.
I have made the individual E.I. numbers on the last shot unrecognizable.
So, what's missing: perhaps the Sinn Bundeswehr. What else?
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.
And great line up of the Militaries. How long did it took to assemble this collection? Best, Horo
Everything I learned at the beginning was from WatchFred. You are not him, are you??? I see from Fred that there is a Bulova one. That might be the only one you miss besides Sinn??
I‘ll check the Bulova, thanks! Cheers, HSTE
Thank you for looking and for coming back on my post. Cheers, HSTE
What can I say other than you achieved a dream which is a dream for many of us. Bravo ! All the best. Nicolas
... are still quite „find-able“. Cheers, HSTE
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