The Cotman Watercolour range offers a more uniform consistency compared to the Artists' Watercolour range, making it easier for beginners to use without needing to understand the nuances of each individual pigment. Winsor Emerald is a bright clean opaque emerald colour. First documented in 1822, it originally contained arsenic, and is said to have killed Napoleon as his wallpaper in St Helens was emerald green. Winsor & Newton have created a non-toxic version closely matching the original colour.

Additionally, the Cotman Watercolour range corresponds with the Winsor & Newton Artists' Watercolour range. For example, Burnt Sienna has the same hue in both ranges, allowing artists to seamlessly mix colours from both with minimal technique adjustments. Series 1.