HS 910121 Other wristwatches, whether or not incorporating a stopwatch facility
Quick Answer: Wristwatches, whether or not incorporating a stopwatch facility, imported under HS 910121 enter the UK at £0.20 per piece, the EU at a minimum of €0.30 per piece and a maximum of €0.80 per piece, and the US at rates ranging from free to 80%. This code specifically covers wristwatches with cases of precious metal or metal clad with precious metal, and excludes those with electronic displays. Importers should be aware of the specific unit-based duties in the EU and the potential for significant ad valorem duties in the US depending on trade agreements. CustomTariffs aggregates this information for compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9101210000 | 0.20 GBP / p/st | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9101210000 | 4.50 % MIN 0.30 EUR / p/st MAX 0.80 EUR / p/st | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 910121 | — | — | — |
| 9101213000 | 3.1% | Free (18 programs) | ["No."] |
| 9101211000 | 3.1% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
| 91012150 | Free | — | — |
| 91012180 | $1.61 each + 4.4% on the case and strap, band or bracelet | Free (17 programs) | — |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 9101.21?
Imports of Other wristwatches, whether or not incorporating a stopwatch facility may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, GSP, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 910121 cover?
This subheading covers other wristwatches, meaning timekeeping devices worn on the wrist, which are not primarily designed for sports or other specific activities and do not incorporate a stopwatch facility. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, this category encompasses a broad range of wristwatches, including those with mechanical or electronic movements, provided they do not have the specific functionality of a stopwatch. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database further define this by excluding watches with stopwatch functions, which would fall under a different classification.
What falls outside HS 910121?
The following products are excluded from HS 910121: wristwatches that incorporate a stopwatch facility, which are classified under HS 910111. Also excluded are pocket watches (HS 9102), clocks (Chapter 91), and time-recording apparatus (HS 8470). Furthermore, smartwatches that primarily function as computing devices or communication tools, even if they display the time, may be classified elsewhere based on their principal function, often under Chapter 85, according to General Interpretative Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 910121?
A common error is misinterpreting the "stopwatch facility" exclusion. Importers may incorrectly classify a watch with a simple chronograph function (which measures elapsed time but is not a dedicated stopwatch) under HS 910121, when it should be under HS 910111 if it is considered a stopwatch facility. Another mistake involves classifying smartwatches that have advanced computing and communication features under this heading, overlooking General Interpretative Rule 3(b) which prioritizes the essential character of the product. Adherence to the WCO Explanatory Notes and national tariff rulings is crucial.
How should importers classify products under HS 910121?
The correct procedure for classifying wristwatches under HS 910121 involves a systematic approach. First, determine if the item is a wristwatch worn on the wrist. Second, ascertain if it incorporates a stopwatch facility; if it does, it is excluded from this subheading. Third, consider the primary function if it is a smartwatch, as advanced functionalities may lead to classification elsewhere. Importers and customs brokers should consult the WCO HS Nomenclature, relevant national tariff schedules like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC, and any available rulings or opinions to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 910121?
A "Luxury Chronograph Wristwatch" declared at a customs value of $500 USD, weighing 0.1 kg, would attract a US duty of $25.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is $500 (declared value) × 0.05 (duty rate) = $25.00. This rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) under subheading 910121. Note that specific origin and trade agreements can alter this rate.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 910121?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 910121, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a 0% duty rate for eligible goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement also allows for preferential treatment, often resulting in a 0% duty rate for qualifying goods. For goods originating from GSP beneficiary countries, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced rates. Documentation required typically includes a USMCA Certificate of Origin, an EUR.1 movement certificate for EU/UK preferences, or a GSP Form A for GSP preferences, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 910121, 'Other wristwatches, whether or not incorporating a stopwatch facility'?
Import duty rates for HS code 910121 can vary significantly by country. For example, under the UK Global Tariff, the standard rate is 3.1% ad valorem. However, preferential rates may apply. For instance, imports from the EU might be free of duty. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the UK Trade Tariff or the EU TARIC database, to determine the applicable rate for your specific origin country and trade agreement status.
How is the import duty for HS code 910121 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The calculation depends on the duty rate structure. If the rate is purely ad valorem (e.g., 3.1%), the duty is a percentage of the declared value of the goods. If it's a specific duty (e.g., 0.20 GBP per piece), it's a fixed amount per unit. Some tariffs use compound duties (e.g., 4.50% MIN 0.30 EUR / p/st MAX 0.80 EUR / p/st), meaning the duty is the higher of an ad valorem calculation or a specific amount, or capped within a range.
Example (hypothetical ad valorem rate of 3.1%): If you import 100 wristwatches with a declared value of 50 GBP each, the total value is 5,000 GBP. The duty would be 3.1% of 5,000 GBP = 155 GBP.
Example (hypothetical specific duty of 0.20 GBP/piece): For the same 100 wristwatches, the duty would be 100 pieces * 0.20 GBP/piece = 20 GBP.
What are the key classification criteria for HS code 910121?
HS code 910121 covers 'Other wristwatches, whether or not incorporating a stopwatch facility'. This means the primary criterion is that the timepiece must be designed to be worn on the wrist. It distinguishes these from pocket watches (covered elsewhere). The 'other' designation implies it covers wristwatches not specifically detailed in preceding subheadings, typically focusing on those that are not solely battery-powered quartz movements if such categories exist in the tariff structure. The inclusion of a stopwatch facility (chronograph function) does not preclude classification here. The WCO's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes provide detailed guidance on watch classifications.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 910121, and what documentation is typically required?
Preferential duty rates for HS code 910121 are often available under various free trade agreements (FTAs). For example, the UK has FTAs with countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), and South Korea (KR), which may offer reduced or zero duties. The EU has agreements with countries like South Korea (KR) and Canada (CA). To claim preferential treatment, importers typically need a 'Proof of Origin' document, such as a EUR.1 certificate or a supplier's declaration, issued by the exporter in the origin country, certifying that the goods meet the rules of origin under the relevant FTA. Always verify the specific requirements of the FTA and the importing country's customs authority.
Are there any specific documentation requirements beyond the commercial invoice and packing list for importing watches under HS 910121?
While a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading are standard, specific documentation for HS 910121 may include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Some countries may also require a declaration of conformity or compliance with safety standards, especially concerning materials used or battery disposal, although this is less common for the watch mechanism itself and more for associated components. It is advisable to check with the customs authority of the importing country for any specific national requirements or import licenses that might apply to timepieces.