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Breitling Rallye Ref. 81480

I wanted to share a special and incredibly rare piece from my collection – the Breitling Rallye Ref. 81480. This is one of the most unusual and elusive Breitling sports watches ever made, featuring the instantly recognizable “caged” case design that sets it apart from anything else in the brand’s history.

The “cage” was not just a design quirk – it had a real purpose. Introduced in the late 1970s and produced in extremely small numbers, the protective grid over the crystal was inspired by motorsport timing watches and rally instruments, designed to protect the glass from sudden shocks, impacts, or debris. This rugged, almost industrial look tied perfectly with the watch’s name – Rallye.

The Ref. 81480 features a two-tone stainless steel and gold-plated case, tachymeter bezel, and a unique dial layout with bold indices and hands for maximum legibility. Powered by a reliable quartz movement of the era, it was marketed toward professional drivers and sports enthusiasts who needed durability without sacrificing style.

Production numbers were tiny, and very few have survived in good, original condition—especially with the cage intact. In fact, this reference is so scarce that it’s rarely seen for sale anywhere.

For collectors of rare Breitling pieces or fans of motorsport-inspired design, the Rallye “Caged” case models are a fascinating chapter in Breitling’s history—blending tool-watch utility with eccentric design language from the bold late ’80s era.

Specifications:
• Brand: Breitling
• Model: Rallye
• Reference: 81480
• Period: 1980s
• Case: Stainless steel with gold details, unique “caged” crystal guard
• Bezel: Tachymeter
• Movement: Quartz (Swiss Made, fully functional)
• Case diameter: approx. 35mm (without crown)
• Thickness: approx. 11 mm
• Strap: Original Integrated Breitling bracelet 22-23cm with extension part. Suitable for most wrists.
• Condition: Very good vintage condition, minor signs of age, cage intact (rare to find). Perfect dial and perfect original Breitling logo glass
• Extras: Watch only (no box/papers)

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Collector’s Notes:
This model was produced in very limited numbers and is rarely seen for sale. Most surviving examples have lost their protective cage — making this a rare opportunity for collectors of vintage Breitling and motorsport-inspired timepieces.

⸻

Photography Notice:
All photos are taken with high-quality macro lenses to highlight every detail. This may exaggerate minor imperfections. The watch looks significantly better in person.

Functionality Disclaimer:
The watch runs well and keeps time.

Shipping & Import Instructions:
The watch will be shipped via registered and insured express courier. For special shipping or import requests, please contact me immediately after the auction ends.

Quartz - Gold/Steel

Breitling - Rallye Eric Tabarly - 81480 - Men - 1980-1989 

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Breitling - Rallye Eric Tabarly - 81480 - Men - 1980-1989

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