In the field of timekeeping, TAG Heuer (TAGHeuer) is famous in the international watch market for its long history of racing timekeeping, but this is not to say that all chronographs in TAG Heuer's history have a relationship with racing, and the Carrera Skipper watch we bring to you today is a watch designed by Jack Heuer for the America's Cup in 1968. The exterior of the new model not only retains the distinctive features that have been emblematic of the Carrera collection, but also incorporates a highly recognizable contrasting design on the dial design, making the zonal chronograph even more eye-catching. Let's take a look at the details of this model: (Reference: CBS2241.FN8023)
A real picture of the watch
The historical prototype of the Skipper, from its first model to the last production model in 1983, had a very distinct sailing element and contrasting colour design. Later Skipper returned in a limited edition, but with the case of the Autavia collection, unlike the original, the first Carrera. Until last year, in 2023, to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Carrera chronograph, the brand unveiled a new generation of the Skipper, based entirely on the style of the original Carrera collection, which was equipped with a stainless steel case and priced at 51,600. The new version we see today is equipped with an 18K 5N rose gold case, which raises the price again.
Collectors of the Skipper are very popular with collectors, and now they are a perfect example of the original. The 39mm shell design is slightly delicate and delicate, and it will not be stuck at the cuffs of the suit, making it comfortable to wear. The 18K 5N rose gold case has a large area of brushed wires on the sides, alternating between edges and corners and brushed techniques, revealing the delicate and moist feeling unique to precious metals.
As a pure gold model, the crown and round pushers on the side of the watch are made of 18K 5N pure rose material, and the chronograph pushers are also finely brushed and polished to give it a strong texture.
In order to provide an efficient and clear reading layout, the watch continues the hallmark of the Carrera collection, with a more concise and sleek bezel-less design. Paired with a box-shaped crystal, the curved edges of the crystal have a retro feel. In addition, the slightly arched glass has a magnified visual effect on the dial scale ring, which improves the readability of the dial.
The 18K 5N rose gold-plated hour and minute hands also feature orange lacquered triangular tips
The name "Skipper" printed on the bottom of the 12-hour counter
In terms of dial design, it is indistinguishable from the 60th anniversary edition in 2023, with a colour scheme reminiscent of the Skipper Chronograph 7754 from 1968. The main dial of the new watch is an aquamarine blue main dial, which is as deep as the ocean, and on the "surface of the sea", the brand is decorated with a variety of elements that symbolize the "Dreadnought". The dial features two contrasting subdials, creating a sleek and unique palette of contrasting colours. The 12-hour counter is presented in Intrepid Teal, while the 15-minute regatta counter is divided into three 5-minute zones, each in a different colour, with Lagoon Green and Regatta Orange, representing the colour of the boat's cables. Orange is used to warn of the remaining time, while the central chronograph hand is also orange, and the overall color scheme is particularly eye-catching, with clear partitions.
Like the stainless steel version, the 18-carat 5N rose gold version of the Skipper Chronograph features prominent triangle markers on the outer rim of the cambered dial every 5 minutes (a design element inspired by the historic models of Prouder). In addition, both versions are based on the original, with subdials at 6 o'clock and a practical date window that blends perfectly with the background color of the dial.
A textile strap matching the colour of the dial with an 18K 5N pink gold pin buckle
Compared to the historical prototypes, the functional layout at 6 o'clock is due to the different structure of the TH20-06 calibre inside. In terms of performance, the movement features a more efficient bidirectional winding rotor and a column-wheel mechanism for smoother, freezing-free operation, and a power reserve of up to 80 hours at full winding. The watch is water-resistant to a depth of 100 meters.
Bottom line: The Skipper briefly appeared in the Hodinkee Limited Edition in 2017 when it sold out at a sold-out price for its vintage watches. Now, with the return of this popular piece, the Carrera Skipper Chronograph 18K 5N Rose Gold Edition will take the luxury and collectible value of TAG Heuer's iconic chronograph to a whole new level. Interested players may wish to pay more attention, the price of the watch: 159,500