Just a hint

CONSPICUOUSLY MORE UNDERSTATED THAN THEIR GEM-SET COUSINS, THESE SUBTLE rainbow-coloured watches ARE NO LESS DEFIANT IN THEIR INSISTENCE ON OPTIMISM AND STYLE.

- CHARMAINE HO

When prism-hued watches first appeared on the horizon in the ’80s (in the form of Rolex’s Cellini), they were met with less-than-positive reactions and regarded as mere novelties that added a point of interest to serious watch collections. Fast forward to 40 or so years later, and rainbow timepieces have gained such momentum that their appearances are no longer limited to just the wrists of music royalty and sports superstars. It seems everyone is eager to get in on the multi-hued action, with the nay’s of yesteryears converting to resounding yay’s.

Horology brands, from Audemars Piguet and Breguet to Patek Philippe and Ulysse Nardin have all offered their take on the vibrant trend—myriads of times. The one thing that all the watches had in common was a treasure trove of gems that sparkled unabashedly at the slightest hint of light. As attention-grabbing as they are attractive, these timepieces were made to stand out with a palpable statement.

This doesn’t leave much room for people who are keen on partaking in the cheery trend without all the usual fanfare. But thanks to its proliferation and popularity, there’s now a new breed of rainbow-themed designs that lets watch lovers enjoy with discretion.