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Watch buying from Europe

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Hi, has anyone got some experience with buying watches from EU (Germany), how high are the customs for a 350$ piece? I'm interested in a combat sub but am still unsure if it's a bargain or not worth the money and waiting time.
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Watchboi
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RayF
22220
Oct 4, 2020
I assume you're in the US? Like @mclose, I purchased a Steinhart from their German website--no customs fees, no duty. I think they charged $40 for DHL shipping which was plenty fast.
mclose
582
Sep 12, 2020
Generally there's no duty on watches <$2k. But you need the seller to include the proper documentation. Higher end brands draw scrutiny and the paper work is a PITA.
mclose
582
Sep 12, 2020
Correct. I purchased a new watch from Steinhart directly about 2 years ago and there were no custom charges. I also bought a Junghans at the factory in Germany and brought it in duty free (I declared it on the custom form and had a receipt). I've also purchased AP, JLC, and Panerai from EU dealers and it's taken a month or more to clear customs and I paid heavy duties. I won't do that again. There are likely better dealers than I used who know how to complete all the correct paperwork from the beginning, which would make it easier and less time consuming.
Watchboi
1
Sep 12, 2020
mcloseOk, thanks. I'll double check with our local customs office if it is the same for importing from the US. Because you were talking about importing from Europe right?
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