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.

Watch is in very good overall condition. Case exhibits light to moderate surface wear, with some scratches and mark visible. The original bezel insert has similar surface wear visible. The caseback no longer shows the military issue number, as it was polished off at some point. The original dial is in excellent condition, wtih minor signs of aging on the surface. The luminous material on the dial has aged to a light greenish yellow hue, which is lighter than the hands. This is consistent with all of the 817s. Watch comes on a generic strap and buckle. Please note that the timekeeping of the watch is poor, and a service is recommended.

A special piece of Italian military history and Breitling's heritage too, the ref. 817 is a rare watch to find, with it representing a unique part of Breitling and the Italian military's history.