Purists will be the first to say that ‘reintroducing’ is the better word—and you know what, they’re right.
Last seen in stores 40 years ago, the new Skipper has all the bells and whistles required of a proper 21st century watch from TAG Heuer. It boasts the latest TH20-06 movement with bi-directional winding, an 80-hour power reserve and a resistant textile strap. But for many, it is the obvious sense of nostalgia that’s priceless.
For the new generation, TAG Heuer went all the way back to the very first models from the 1960s that were based on the Carrera chronograph, as opposed to the Autavia case seen in later versions. Hence, the ‘Carrera’ in the name, which also references the recently launched ‘glassbox’ design that contributes greatly to the timepiece’s legibility in all conditions.
In terms of looks, the new Skipper revisits the distinctive and colourful livery of a model that was born from current honorary chairman, Jack Heuer’s involvement with the America’s Cup. TAG Heuer was the official timing partner of the US boat Intrepid for the 1967 edition of the historic yacht race, which it went on to win decisively.
In celebration, Heuer produced the Skipper chronograph with a 30-minute sub-dial that was adapted to count-down the 15-minute regatta pre-start in three, five-minute segments, each represented by green, orange and teal.
Similarly, the new Skipper has a circular brushed main dial in Carrera signature blue and contrasting sub-dials—the 12-hour counter is in ‘Intrepid Teal’, while the 15-minute regatta counter has segments in colours faithful to the original.
Other features drawn from the historic watch include the prominent triangle-shaped markers positioned at five-minute intervals around the outer curved flange, the bright orange central seconds hand and the inclusion of the ‘Skipper’ name at the base of the 12-hour counter.
Even better news is you won’t have to wait another 40 years for a new iteration of the Skipper. TAG Heuer has announced that this Carrera Skipper will serve as the flagship for a whole series of further maritime models to mark the brand’s return to the world of yachts and yachting. Amen to that!
