HS 910212 With opto-electronic display only
Quick Answer: Wrist-watches with opto-electronic display only, imported under HS 910212, enter the UK at £0.20 per piece, the EU at a minimum of €0.30 and a maximum of €0.80 per piece (4.5% ad valorem), and the US with rates varying from Free to 35%. This classification specifically covers wrist-watches where the time is displayed using an opto-electronic mechanism, such as an LCD or LED screen, excluding those with mechanical or electromechanical displays. Importers should verify specific rates based on the exact product and origin. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the need for careful classification and duty calculation to ensure compliance.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9102120000 | 0.20 GBP / p/st | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9102120000 | 4.50 % MIN 0.30 EUR / p/st MAX 0.80 EUR / p/st | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9102122000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 9102128000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
| 910212 | — | — | — |
| 9102124000 | Free | — | ["No."] |
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.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 910212 cover?
This subheading covers wrist-watches and pocket-watches, with opto-electronic display only, as per the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. This specifically includes digital watches that rely solely on light-emitting diodes (LEDs) or liquid crystal displays (LCDs) for time indication, excluding any mechanical or electromechanical components for display. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm this scope, focusing on the display technology as the primary classification determinant.
What falls outside HS 910212?
The following products are excluded from HS 910212: watches with mechanical or electromechanical displays, such as analog dials with hands, even if they incorporate a secondary digital or opto-electronic feature. Also excluded are smartwatches that offer functionalities beyond simple timekeeping, such as communication or computing capabilities, which may fall under other headings like 8517. Watches with combined analog and digital displays are also typically classified under different subheadings within 9102, depending on the primary display mechanism.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 910212?
A common error is misinterpreting "opto-electronic display only" to include watches with hybrid displays. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b), when goods are classifiable by virtue of being composed of different materials or components, they are to be classified as if they consisted of the material or component which gives them their essential character. If a watch has both an analog dial and an opto-electronic display, its classification hinges on which display provides the essential character, often leading to classification under a different subheading if the analog display is deemed primary.
How should importers classify products under HS 910212?
The correct procedure for classifying watches under HS 910212 involves a thorough examination of the watch's display mechanism. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the watch exclusively uses an opto-electronic display, such as an LCD or LED, for time indication. Reviewing product specifications, manufacturer documentation, and consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC is crucial to confirm the absence of any mechanical or electromechanical display components.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 910212?
A digital wristwatch with an opto-electronic display weighing 0.05 kg and declared at a customs value of $50.00 USD would attract a US duty of $1.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value: 3.0% × $50.00 = $1.50. This calculation is based on the rates published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for subheading 9102.12.10.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 910212?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 910212, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) may also offer reduced or Free rates for eligible developing countries. To claim these preferential rates, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a EUR.1 movement certificate for EU preferences, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 910212 (Wrist-watches, pocket-watches and other watches, with opto-electronic display only)?
Import duty rates for HS code 910212 vary significantly by importing country and trade agreement. For example, under the UK Global Tariff, the standard rate is 3.5% ad valorem. In the EU, under TARIC, rates can range from 4.50% MIN 0.30 EUR / p/st MAX 0.80 EUR / p/st. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule may list rates such as 0.20 GBP / p/st or Free, depending on the origin. Always consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the most accurate and up-to-date rates, including any applicable preferential rates under Free Trade Agreements.
What specific criteria define a watch as having an 'opto-electronic display only' under HS 910212?
HS code 910212 applies to watches where the display is exclusively opto-electronic. This means the time is shown using light-emitting diodes (LEDs), liquid crystal displays (LCDs), or similar technologies that produce a visual readout of the time without mechanical or analog hands. If the watch incorporates any other display mechanism, such as traditional hands, it would be classified under a different HS code, likely within 9101 or 9102, depending on other features.
How is the import duty calculated for HS code 910212, using a hypothetical example?
The calculation depends on the duty rate structure. If a country applies an ad valorem duty, the calculation is based on the value of the goods. For instance, if the duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem and you import 100 watches valued at $10 each (total value $1,000), the duty would be $1,000 * 3.5% = $35. If a specific duty rate (e.g., per piece) or a combination (e.g., ad valorem with a minimum/maximum) applies, the calculation would follow that structure. For example, a rate of '4.50% MIN 0.30 EUR / p/st MAX 0.80 EUR / p/st' means the duty per piece is the highest of 4.50% of the value, 0.30 EUR, or 0.80 EUR. You must verify the exact duty calculation method with the importing country's customs authority.
What documentation is typically required for importing watches classified under HS 910212?
Standard import documentation for HS 910212 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the watches; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Depending on the importing country and the specific product, additional documentation such as a declaration of conformity or specific import licenses may be required. Importers and customs brokers should confirm these requirements with the destination country's customs authority.
Do trade agreements, such as Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), commonly affect the duty rates for HS code 910212?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 910212. For example, if watches classified under 910212 originate from a country that has an FTA with the importing country (e.g., EU-Japan EPA, USMCA), they may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates upon presentation of a valid certificate of origin. Importers should investigate applicable FTAs and ensure compliance with their rules of origin to benefit from preferential treatment. The WCO Harmonized System itself does not specify trade agreements, but national tariff schedules, like the EU TARIC or USITC, will list these preferential rates.