SITCSection 8
U.S. imports of non-battery wrist watches with non-precious metal cases (SITC 88542) totaled $321.5M in April 2026, traded with 51 countries.
Importers of Non-Battery Wrist Watches with Non-Precious Metal Cases paid $54.8M in duties in April 2026 — an effective duty rate of 17% on $331.3M in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule.
Last updated: April 2026 dataMechanical and automatic wrist watches housed in stainless steel, titanium, or other non-precious-metal cases occupy the mid-market and enthusiast segment, where movement craftsmanship rather than case material drives value. The dual classification criteria — non-battery power source and non-precious case — must both be confirmed; a mainspring-driven watch in a gold-plated case that does not meet the cladding threshold would fall here rather than in the precious-metal heading. Importers sourcing from Switzerland benefit from well-established movement documentation practices, while sourcing from other origins may require more detailed technical declarations.
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The invoice should specify: (1) movement type — mechanical or automatic, confirming no battery; (2) case material — e.g., 316L stainless steel, titanium, or other base metal; (3) country of origin of the movement and case separately if they differ; and (4) whether any precious-metal coating is present and its thickness, to confirm it does not meet the cladding threshold. Clear technical descriptions reduce the risk of reclassification at the port.
Yes. Titanium is not a precious metal under the tariff schedule, so a watch with a titanium case and a mechanical movement would be classified here, provided no precious-metal cladding is present. Importers should confirm the case composition in writing from the manufacturer to document the classification decision.
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| Country | Imports | Exports | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| SWITZERLAND | $301.5M | $13.0M | -$288.5M |
| JAPAN | $9.3M | $493K | -$8.8M |
| GERMANY | $5.9M | $638K | -$5.3M |
| HONG KONG | $753K | $5.0M | +$4.2M |
| CANADA | $68K | $5.1M | +$5.0M |
Monthly import values over time