The original Heuer Skipper was produced from 1968-1983 but the Carrera version was only in production for that first year before shifting to the Autavia case in 1969. For decades it was largely a forgotten esoteric regatta-timer but, as we know, in recent years this colorful Carrera chronograph aka the “Skipperera” has reached cult-like status with collectors. Now, TAG Heuer is re-releasing the Carrera Skipper as part of its core collection with the promise of more seafaring associated watches to come.
2023 was the 60th anniversary of the Carrera which was marked by the release of the much lauded new 39mm Carrera with its vintage inspired domed ‘Glassbox’ crystal. This model serves as the template for new Skipper so while we are not talking about a 1:1 replica of the original Ref. 7754, the rerelease is impressively well thought out contemporary take that stands on its own merits.
The photo above is an excellent side-by-side comparison of the 36mm original next to the rerelease. You’ll notice the addition of a date window and seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock, new hands and indices, and a more vibrant Carrera signature blue dial. While the original had a running seconds sub-dial at 9 o’clock, the new model has a 12-hour counter done in that beautiful “Intrepid Teal” color. The 15-minute regatta-timer sub-dial at 3 o’clock also has new touches like minute markers while retaining that eye-catching tri-color segmentation in Lagoon Green, Intrepid Teal, and Regatta Orange.
The bezel-free case of the Carrera makes the 39mm wide case ideal for daily wear with a lug-to-lug measurement of 46mm. While the Glassbox domed sapphire crystal does add a bit to the case thickness of 13.9mm, it just looks so good and makes the tradeoff a no-brainer. The 100m of water resistance is especially apt for a regatta-timer even if it shares specs with the standard Carrera.
From the case back we can see the TH20-06 movement which is based on the new TH20-00 (which is an updated version of the Heuer 02) and has a bidirectional winding rotor with an 80-hour power reserve.
While I’m sure there will be many collectors still hoping for an exact reissue of the original ‘Skipperera’ (and they might get it, someday), I like that TAG Heuer is maximizing the potential of their truly excellent new 39mm Carrera. I can’t imagine anyone in the market for a fun chronograph in the mid-four figures would overlook the new Carrera Skipper because it really does have everything going for it. Outfitted on a matching blue textile strap with folding clasp, the TAG Heuer Carrera Skipper is a standard production piece priced at 6,600 CHF, or about $7,600 USD.
To learn more, visit TAG Heuer, here.
very cool indeed aside from thickness AND price