Thank you, everyone, for your feedback - it is greatly appreciated! I think I may have let my bias toward the more expensive option show, but the Swan is certainly the one I prefer. Part of the appeal to me is the royal blue colour, so I don't think I'd go with an "ancient" version.

Quote Originally Posted by xman View Post
I suggest Lochcarron's Holyrood Gold in their heirloom colours. It's a beautiful tartan and on my long list if I ever get all the kilts on my short list. I hope Buckskin will not mind me reposting his picture.
I do like the Holyrood Golden Jubilee, but it seems that particular tartan is nearly as expensive as the Swan (in which case the Swan wins out).

Quote Originally Posted by Spc. Scott View Post
Of course there is always the option of having one of each...

And in that case I would go with the Swan first.
After twisting my arm, you've convinced me - eventually I think I'll get a four- or five-yard kilt in the Holyrood tartan for more casual events. Like I said, though, it will be quite some time.

Unless someone comes in and convinces me otherwise, I'm saving my pennies for a Swan tartan eight-yard kilt and a few accessories.

Thanks again, and keep your thoughts coming!