I have adapted your 2nd circuit, cut it down to 3/5 and made it so I can use PNP transistors (I have RGB led with common cathode).
I use 22k resistors on bases, tried 22uF capacitors on bases and 100nF as "starting" capacitor. RGB resistors varies, because of different voltage drop on different colors.
That means I can't use no. 2 suggestion.
I can increase capacitance if I stay in 5x11mm capacitor range (220uF are ok). Increasing resistor value on base looks easier though 
This design won't probably ever be used, but looking on that CR2032 battery - is there difference in current draw between no. 1 and no. 3 suggestions?
If I want the circuit to go 1/3 time for each color, I have to adjust resistance on every color so they all have the same current, am I right?
If some of my questions seems stupid believe me that I learn from your answers