The new Swatch X You collection allows fans of bright colours and outlandish prints to create their own watch? it may not be new, but it sure is fun

By Sarah Jordan

There is an irreverence to colour in watches that signals the wearer has opted to kick the rules to the curb. Gone is the versatility of a black, brown or blue colour palette, and in walks sunshine yellow straps and turquoise blue dials.
When it comes to luxury timepieces, there is also a bravery in choosing colour. The Richard Mille RM 27-03 Rafael Nadal, with its alternating waves of red and yellow, isn?t exactly playing it safe. The same can be said for the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Divers in shades of lime green and “acid yellow”. Let?s just say you would need to be a passionate advocate of an unusual colour before investing at this level. Unsurprisingly then, it is the more affordable, fashion-led brands that ensnare those with a fleeting love of orange or pastel pink. When you?re spending less than £100, a summer love affair with a timepiece isn?t going to sting when winter arrives. A brand that knows this all too well is Swatch, which has recently launched its Swatch X You design your own concept.

The five-step process, which can be done online or in-store, starts by selecting either the 34mm Gent or the 41mm New Gent case option. Next, the budding artiste can choose from a concise selection of cases, straps, loop straps and additional pins or loops to complete their design. Col...