I remember seeing my first Swatch watch when classmates came to school wearing these big, bright plastic watches. Those colourful wrist accessories stood out amidst our standard blue and white uniforms.

And we schoolgirls were crazy over them, as they were just about the only permitted items - since they were watches and by that description - not jewellery, which we could wear to school without being caught by the discipline mistress for sporting fancy and unnecessary adornment. And yet, they were quirky enough to make a fashion statement with.

So when I got my first Swatch watch - a green and white plastic one that portrayed a town scene from the Alps, I was over the moon about my first 'adult' watch. To a schoolgirl who still had lunch money given to her by her parents, these accessible Swiss-made watches were the ultimate as time pieces go.

Today, the latest collection of Swatch watches - the Colour Codes Collection - brings me back to those school days. Available in 10 bubblegum colours, the Gents, each with a shiny plastic strap in a single, solid colour featuring a matt surface, matching plastic cases, white dials with coloured numerals and indexes are nostalgic for referencing its colourful past. At the same time, they are also very present in the fashion sense.

The Colour Codes collection also features six Swatch Art Specials with exciting designs by graphic artists Gary Card, David Benedek and Carrie Munden.

But if you're after a touch of elegance minus the costliness, check out the Lifestyle Collection, which comprise bangle bracelets, stainless steel and leather straps coupled with stylish designs.

Prices are $79 for a Gents to $239 for a chrono watch.

>> Look here for the full range of Colour Codes Collection and Lifestyle Collection