Convenience, optimization, efficiency — these words define the age we live in. They apply to the modern mindset but they also apply to the tools and systems we build, from 24/7 to-your-door meal delivery to predictive typing. Payment systems too have come a long way from the days of bartering over crops and animals. First, we had coins, then banknotes, plastic cards, and, most recently, it's become possible to pay for everything with our all-seeing, all-doing mobile devices.

Ever the innovator, the iconic Swiss watch brand Swatch wants to take the final efficiency flaws out of making payments and provide a new solution that's always to hand (or wrist). The answer: SwatchPAY!. With SwatchPAY!, time really is money and making payments is as simple as tapping a contactless payment terminal with your SwatchPAY! watch which uses an NFC radio chip hidden beneath the dial. The device doesn't even require a battery to make payments (although the watch's standard, time-telling functions are of course battery powered).

Continuous innovation is a key strand of the Swatch DNA. This latest advance, with the introduction of the fastest and simplest tokenization, makes it easier than ever to pay “forever” – token up your Swatch, swipe it and you’re done. SwatchPAY! is simple, stylish and swatchy.

Carlo Giordanetti, Swatch creative director

Four Swatch models are now equipped to make contactless payments and, like all Swatch watches, they're water-resistant to a depth of 30 meters, so your money is safe in the rain or pool. The simple setup requires an eligible payments card and configuration through the official app in a Swatch store. SwatchPAY! is only available in China and Switzerland for now but they plan to release it in other countries very soon. Stay tuned.

Visit swatch.com to find out more and stay up to date with all the latest Swatch releases by following @Swatch on Instagram.