Is the sequel always better than the original? Well, it depends. 

Take A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back. Clearly the latter is better with complex characters, deeper themes and expanding storylines - (spoiler alert!) -  we find out Darth Vader is Luke Skywalker’s father! 

In the horological universe, a similar conversation could be had about the TAG Heuer x HODINKEE Skipper LE and its followup, the TAG Heuer X Hodinkee Carrera ‘Dato’ LE. Upon its release in 2017, we even went so far as to name the Skipper as one of the coolest chronographs of the 21st century — and still stand by that. 

The subsequent Carrera ‘Dato’ LE is in no way inferior and in many ways makes for a more polished second act. An outstanding homage to the original Heuer 3147N 'Dato 45' of the 1960s, its sobered palette makes for an arguably more sophisticated design, and would perhaps be something Mr. Vader himself would wear while attempting galactic conquest!

Like the Skipper, the Dato was produced using a 39mm stainless steel case with a boxy sapphire crystal and barrel chronograph pushers, a signed crown and an exhibition caseback that displays a its Calibre 02 self-winding movement. Its luminous black 'reverse panda' dial houses applied polished indices, a single white subsidiary register with 30 minute totalizer at 3 o’clock, a framed date window at 9 o’clock and a luminous handset. Like the Skipper before it, the Dato uses the Heuer (sans-TAG) branding to round out the proper 'homage' treatment package.

Individually numbered and with a production run of only 250 pieces, this limited edition model is offered in near-mint, virtually unworn condition, fitted to its signed black alligator strap with a signed deployant buckle. It also comes with its full factory collateral set including inner and outer boxes, a leather travel case, booklets, serialized sticker set and warranty card dated in June, 2021.

Is the TAG Heuer x HODINKEE sequel better than the original? Why not scoop this one up and make your own decision!