I agree with NuName; it is a nonsense to suggest that all IFR time is spent on instruments. Watching the autopilot follow the magenta line is not flying by SOLE reference to instruments. Looking out the window on a gin-clear day while the aircraft climbs in VNAV is not flying by SOLE reference to instruments. I'm quite sure the intent of recording instrument flight time is to ensure currency or experience to qualify for or maintain the relevant instrument flying rating. Flying in VMC, with the autopilot engaged and reading a book does not add to that experience and, in my mind, does not fulfil the requirements.
JAR-FCL 1.080(b)(4)(5) “Recording of flight time”, states:
A pilot may log as instrument flight time only that time during which he operates the aircraft solely by reference to instruments, under actual or simulated instrument flight conditions.
Please note the operative word, "conditions", not rules. VMC in IFR is NOT instrument flight conditions.