Vintage Breitling 817 Folgore sold on watchPool24

Description ▲

This military watch was made for some really tough guys. In the 1970s Breitling produced the reference 817 exclusively for the helicopter pilots of the Italian Army. This model was not available for civilians. It is reported that a maximum of 500 units were made and much less have survived until today.

In 1975 40 specially signed models of this reference were presented to the 185th Paratroopers Division (185 Reggimento Paracadutisti R.A.O "Folgore"). In October 2016 all 40 watches were sold in an auction with the explicit permission of the Italian Ministry of Defense. The particular example offered here is the number 19 of this series, which is also called "Folgore Forty".

The black dial with large arabic numerals is very legible and in mint condition. The original lume still shines perfectly dark yellow in the hands and greenish in the hour numerals. The round stainless steel case is in excellent and unpolished condition with sharp edges. The unsigned, fluted crown is original. On the screwed caseback Italian Army E.I. (Esercito Italiano) and serial number are engraved. The chronograph is powered by the original Breitling manual wind calibre 236.

The watch comes with the original expanding strech bracelet.

This historic military chronograph is an exciting watch not only for Vintage Breitling lovers.

Serial number Breitling: 143XXXX
Serial number (military): E.I. 0230

Int.Exe.: 89411

Features ▲

Manufacturer: Breitling

Reference: 817

Functions: chronograph - small running second - luminous hand - rotating bezel - screwed-on caseback

Material: Stainless steel

Dial: black

Dial Description: arabic numerals

Watch glass: acrylic crystal

Bracelet: stainless steel

Type of clasp: expanding stretch bracelet

Diameter: 40mm

Caliber name: Breitling 817 (Valjoux 236)

Movement type: manual wound

Year of Manufacture: 1975

Stock No.: 2101

Overall condition: 9 - has rarely been worn - top condition

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