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SITCSection 8
U.S. imports of pocket watches & other non-wrist watches with precious metal cases (SITC 88539) totaled $556K in April 2026, traded with 9 countries.
Importers of Pocket Watches & Other Non-Wrist Watches with Precious Metal Cases paid $33K in duties in April 2026 — an effective duty rate of 7.3% on $455K in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule. Pocket Watches & Other Non-Wrist Watches with Precious Metal Cases imports of $556K in April 2026 ran 36% below the year-to-date monthly average of $866K.
Last updated: April 2026 dataPocket watches and fob watches — distinguished from wrist watches by their carrying format rather than movement type — with precious-metal or precious-metal-clad cases form a niche but high-value import category. The classification hinges on two simultaneous criteria: the watch must not be a wrist watch, and the case must meet the precious-metal or cladding standard. Antique and collectible pocket watches may also implicate separate CBP appraisement rules based on age and artistic merit, which can affect dutiable value.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.
The distinction is based on the intended wearing or carrying method: pocket watches are designed to be carried in a pocket or on a chain/fob, while wrist watches are designed to be worn on the wrist with a strap or bracelet. CBP looks at the physical design features — case shape, crown placement, attachment points — rather than how the importer or end-user actually uses the piece.
Antiques that are over 100 years old may qualify for duty-free entry under a separate HTS provision for antiques, which would take precedence over this heading. Importers should consult a licensed customs broker and provide authentication documentation (provenance, hallmarks, appraisal) to support an antique claim, as misclassification in either direction carries penalty risk.
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| Country | Imports | Exports | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| SWITZERLAND | $508K | $10K | -$497K |
| HONG KONG | -- | $438K | +$438K |
| JAPAN | $26K | -- | -$26K |
| DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | -- | $25K | +$25K |
| CANADA | -- | $18K | +$18K |
Monthly import values over time