Tag Heuer CBS2213 Carrera Skipper 39mm 2024 Box & Papers

Why We Love the TAG Heuer CBS2213 Carrera Skipper

When a renowned Swiss watchmaker known for its automotive racing pedigree revisits its maritime legacy, you can be certain it’s worth paying attention. The TAG Heuer CBS2213 Carrera Skipper is precisely that—a seamless fusion of racing heritage, nautical influence, and modern engineering. For those drawn to a stylish yet capable timepiece, the Carrera Skipper stands as an irresistible choice. 

History of the Skipper

The origins of the Heuer Skipper date back to the late 1960s, a period marked by Heuer’s (pre-TAG) dedication to precision timing solutions for both motor racing and yachting. Although the Carrera and Autavia lines were already well established for timing fast-paced motorsport events, Heuer sought to capture another arena where timing was paramount: the high-stakes world of yacht racing. As it happened, 1967 was a banner year for the legendary yacht Intrepid, which claimed victory in the America’s Cup. Jack Heuer himself, recognising the significance of this triumph and the potential synergy between motor racing and nautical sports, decided to create a watch dedicated to yachting. Thus, in 1968, the first Heuer Skipper was introduced, commemorating Intrepid’s success.

The early Skippers were closely related to other Heuer chronographs of the time—often adapted from the Autavia or Carrera references—but distinguished by their striking dial layouts and regatta-countdown functionality (or at least a dedicated sub-dial to keep track of short intervals crucial for yachting starts). At a glance, one could immediately spot the Skipper’s distinctive use of bold colours, typically a tri-colour sub-dial for timing the critical moments before a yacht crossed the start line. While Heuer’s automotive chronographs leaned on a sportier, more understated palette, the Skipper introduced brighter hues evocative of maritime flags and signal colours.

From the late 1960s into the 1970s, the Skipper evolved across various reference numbers, each iteration refining the design. Collectors revere models like the Ref. 7754 (often dubbed the “Skipperera”), which adapted the Carrera case. Later versions used Autavia-style cases, with the name “Skipper” subtly integrated into the dial or left off entirely depending on the reference. Although the Skipper was never produced in the same vast quantities as the Carrera or Monaco, it carved out a dedicated following among watch aficionados. Its cult status was partly due to its rarity—finding a vintage Skipper in excellent condition quickly became a holy grail for serious Heuer collectors.

Over time, as the brand changed hands, and “Heuer” eventually morphed into “TAG Heuer”, the Skipper line faded from mainstream production. Other lines such as the Monaco, Carrera, and Formula 1 took centre stage. However, the Skipper’s cult appeal never truly disappeared. Vintage enthusiasts continued to celebrate its quirky colour schemes, concise dial arrangement, and the story behind its creation. The scarcity of original Skipper pieces further heightened their allure in collector circles.

Fast-forward to the modern era, and TAG Heuer recognised the enduring charm of the Skipper. Riding a wave of enthusiasm for vintage reissues, TAG Heuer brought back the essence of this maritime chronograph in new forms, paying tribute to the watch’s iconic design language and athletic utility. This journey culminates in the TAG Heuer CBS2213 Carrera Skipper, a model that embraces the watch’s heritage while injecting it with contemporary flair. In keeping with the original spirit, it features the same bright, tri-colour motif on the dial, robust water resistance, and an unwavering commitment to precision. Now, both established collectors and new fans can experience a piece of Heuer history on their wrists, bridging the brand’s 20th-century heritage with cutting-edge 21st-century watchmaking.

Perfect Sizing and Comfortable Wearing Experience

In a market often divided between oversized statement pieces and vintage-correct smaller dimensions, the CBS2213 Carrera Skipper strikes an ideal balance at 39mm in diameter. This is particularly appreciated in Australia, where lifestyle versatility is valued—your watch should feel just as natural at the beach as it does at a chic restaurant in the city. Crafted in durable stainless steel, the case can handle daily knocks and scrapes without flinching, and the ergonomically designed lugs ensure it sits comfortably on most wrists.

The caseback, solidly secured and lightly curved, helps keep the watch stable throughout the day. Whether you’re off for a surf on the Gold Coast or sipping coffee on a bustling Melbourne laneway, the Skipper feels neither too heavy nor cumbersome. Finishing it off, TAG Heuer’s thoughtfully selected straps—be they sporty fabric or refined leather—add a touch of understated elegance, aligning perfectly with the watch’s dual identity as a vintage-inspired yet robustly modern chronograph.

A Dial That Captures the Spirit of Sailing

The dial of the Carrera Skipper is a feast for the eyes, showcasing bright accent colours reminiscent of signal flags on a regatta yacht. It’s these pops of colour that imbue the watch with its lively, adventurous spirit. Even so, the layout remains clean, thanks to the Carrera DNA that prioritises legibility and balance.

The Skipper’s hallmark tri-colour sub-dial (often associated with regatta or yacht timing) not only pays homage to the vintage models but also stands out as a vibrant centrepiece. Super-LumiNova on the hands and indices ensures visibility after dark—ideal if you’re mooring in the early evening or simply stepping into a low-lit bar. The result is a harmonious blend of form and function, where the dial is both practical and undeniably charismatic.

Cutting-Edge Movement

Beneath that striking exterior lies a thoroughly contemporary powerhouse. TAG Heuer equips the CBS2213 Carrera Skipper with a high-performance automatic movement that builds upon the brand’s lineage of reliable and accurate calibres. Incorporating a column-wheel mechanism (or its modern chronograph equivalent), it delivers a tactile and precise feel whenever you engage the pushers.

In everyday life, whether timing a jog, a regatta start, or even just tracking how long your steak’s been on the barbie, you can trust the Skipper’s movement to stand up to any timing challenge. It’s this reliability that has perpetually earned TAG Heuer respect: a watch that merges historical charm with the precision required in modern settings is a rare find indeed.

Versatile Styling

One of the strengths of the Carrera Skipper—both vintage and modern iterations—is its chameleon-like ability to slip into different styles. You could just as easily pair it with a summery outfit on a yacht in Perth as you could with a sharp suit for a business meeting in Sydney. The watch’s 39mm case size stays proportional, while the dial’s playful aesthetic lends a dash of character no matter the dress code.

Unlike more aggressively styled dive watches or hefty pilot chronographs, the Skipper feels both sporty and sophisticated. It’s right at home poolside, at a beach bar, or behind the wheel of your car. In short, it’s a timepiece that evokes a sense of adventure without feeling locked into a single thematic niche—ideal for Australians who value versatility in their wardrobes.

TAG Heuer’s Commitment to Reliability

TAG Heuer’s heritage in building tool watches—be they for racing or yachting—means they understand the importance of reliability. Over decades, they’ve struck a balance between sophisticated design and no-nonsense performance. With the modern Skipper, it’s evident that the brand hasn’t strayed from that ethos, ensuring that each piece can handle real-world conditions.

Celebrating a Passion for Timing and Sport

At its core, the Skipper story is about the pursuit of precision in competitive environments. Just as the Monaco and Autavia lines capture the essence of racing circuits, the Skipper reflects the strategic, high-tension atmosphere found in yacht racing. Accurately timing the start of a regatta can be the difference between clinching victory and lagging behind, so the original Heuer Skippers were equipped with the necessary functionality to handle such demands.

With the CBS2213 Carrera Skipper, TAG Heuer has revisited this niche but essential element of its heritage. The chronograph function—accented by those vibrantly coloured sub-dials—serves as a symbol of that racing spirit. Whether you’re an active sailor, a motorsport fanatic, or simply someone who appreciates the thrill of sports, you’ll find a soulful connection here. The watch, in effect, unites the passion for timing events on both land and sea.

A Conversation Piece Worthy of Enthusiasts

To the untrained eye, the Carrera Skipper might look like a stylish chronograph with a pop of colour. But for those in the know, it’s a delightful throwback to a niche but highly respected branch of Heuer’s past. Because vintage Skippers are rare and coveted, spotting a modern reissue on someone’s wrist can spark immediate conversation among enthusiasts. The use of colour, the story behind the original Skipper, and its reappearance under the TAG Heuer banner all contribute to its distinctive allure.

We Australians love a good yarn, and the Skipper provides plenty of storytelling material—from its tie to the America’s Cup-winning Intrepid in 1967, to its relatively small production runs in the vintage era, right up to the sleek and faithful revival seen in the CBS2213. It’s not the watch you’ll see on every second wrist, which makes wearing one feel all the more special.

Conclusion

The TAG Heuer CBS2213 Carrera Skipper is a masterful blending of history, modern functionality, and versatile styling. We love it because it revives an important yet sometimes overlooked facet of Heuer’s heritage: its commitment to precise timekeeping not just on the racetrack, but on the high seas as well. The watch’s vivid dial, robust build, and comfortable 39mm size make it a superb choice for daily wear, while its strong ties to vintage Skippers entice enthusiasts who appreciate historical authenticity. Ultimately, the CBS2213 Carrera Skipper proves that TAG Heuer’s legacy extends well beyond motor racing—and that sometimes, venturing off the beaten path yields truly unforgettable results.

  Excellent. 

Excellent.