Tariffs, Taxes & Tickers: How Rising Import Fees Could Spike Luxury Watch Prices in 2025
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Time to read 2 min
First Things First
This is not meant to be a political article in any way. Luxury watch tariffs are a thing that the industry is navigating, so we thought we’d share some fact and opinions based on what we are seeing.
It's been a wild ride lately, and the talk surrounding the watch world isn't just about the latest releases. It’s also about something far less glamorous but potentially much more impactful: tariffs.
So, what do these tariffs mean for luxury watches and, more importantly, for you, the collector or buyer? Let's break it down.
The Unavoidable Hike in New Watch Prices
The most immediate and significant impact of these new tariffs is on the cost of importing watches into the United States. While there was a 90-day pause, a proposed 31% levy on most Swiss products is looming. Previously, import duties on watches typically ranged from around 3% to 8% (You know, back in the day when you just walked in and bought a Daytona because they were all out of Datejusts. Those were the days). Now, depending on the country of origin and components, effective tariff rates could jump dramatically.
Major players like Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet have already begun to adjust prices upwards. The increased costs are substantial, and brands and retailers operating on tight margins are not simply going to eat the expense. This means inevitably there will be higher retail prices for new luxury watches.
So what can you do?
The Pre-Owned Market as a Potential Lifeboat…With a Potential Hole In The Bottom
With new watches becoming more expensive, many buyers are going to look at the pre-owned market (If you get the watches that are already here, you don’t have to pay tariffs. And if you find the right guy, you don’t have to pay tax…“Shhhh.”) Traditionally, pre-owned watches offer a more accessible entry point into luxury brands.
However, a significant portion of pre-owned inventory for US dealers is sourced internationally. New tariffs apply to pre-owned imports as well (there’s no special carveout for that Seiko SKX you’ve had your eye on for 15 years). When you combine higher demand with potentially constrained supply. This could lead to pre-owned prices rising as well.
Which probably has you asking some version of, “What can I do?”
What Should Potential Buyers Do?
First, acknowledge that prices for new watches are likely to go up. If you're set on a brand-new piece from an authorized dealer, be prepared for potentially steeper entry costs. Keep in mind that if you try to buy a watch directly from an international seller or brand without a US distribution center, you as the individual importer will likely be responsible for paying the tariffs based on the purchase price.
If you’re not dead set on a new watch, explore other options. Now might be a strategic time to explore pre-owned options, before potential market shifts fully play out (STOP WAITING PULL THE TRIGGER ON THAT SKX!! Who cares that it doesn’t have a hacking second hand).
My Advice on Navigating Tariffs
Stay informed and act intentionally. Tariffs are a moving target, and policies could shift again with little notice. If you're already eyeing a specific piece—especially something new—consider making your move sooner rather than later. Waiting may only mean paying more later.
For collectors willing to look beyond “brand new,” the pre-owned market remains a viable option, though it’s not immune to rising costs either. Make sure you’re buying from a reputable source, whether it’s a trusted dealer or platform. And if you're importing a watch yourself, understand your responsibilities: tariffs, taxes, and shipping can add up fast. Bottom line? Stay alert, educate yourself on where the market is headed, and make purchases that reflect both your taste and the reality of the market right now.