HS 910820 With automatic winding

Quick Answer: Wrist-watches with automatic winding imported under HS 910820 enter the UK duty-free at 0.00%, the EU at 5.00% (minimum 0.17 EUR per piece), and the US with varied rates including Free and $5.00 each. This code specifically covers wrist-watches that are powered by the wearer's motion, eliminating the need for manual winding or battery replacement. Importers should note the significant duty rate differences between major trading blocs, particularly the EU's specific per-piece minimum, which can impact landed costs for lower-value items. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying the exact tariff for the destination country.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9108200000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
9108200000 5.00 % MIN 0.17 EUR / p/st — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
910820 — — —
9108208000 Free — ["No."]
9108204000 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?

How to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 910820 cover?

This subheading covers complete watch movements, with automatic winding mechanisms, intended for incorporation into wristwatches or pocket watches. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature, these movements are characterized by their self-winding capability, which utilizes the wearer's motion to power the watch. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the defining feature is the presence of an automatic winding system, distinguishing them from manually wound or battery-powered movements.

What falls outside HS 910820?

The following products are excluded from HS 910820: complete watch movements that do not feature automatic winding, such as those requiring manual winding or powered by a battery (quartz movements). Also excluded are partially assembled movements, individual components of watch movements, and complete watches or clocks that already contain these movements. For instance, a finished wristwatch with an automatic movement would be classified under a different heading, typically 9102, not the movement itself under 910820.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 910820?

A common error is misclassifying a complete watch containing an automatic movement under HS 910820, rather than classifying the movement separately. General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1 of the Harmonized System dictates that classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. Importers may also mistakenly classify movements with hybrid winding systems or those not fully automatic under this subheading, failing to adhere to the precise definition of "automatic winding" as understood by customs authorities.

How should importers classify products under HS 910820?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 910820 involves a thorough examination of the product's technical specifications. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the complete watch movement possesses an automatic winding mechanism, as defined by the WCO. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and comparing the product's characteristics against the descriptive notes for heading 9108 and subheading 910820 is crucial. Obtaining a manufacturer's declaration confirming the automatic winding feature is also advisable.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 910820?

A Swiss-made automatic watch movement weighing 25 grams and declared at a customs value of $150 USD would attract a US duty of $7.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 910820. The calculation is: 5% of $150 USD = $7.50. This rate applies to goods from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 910820?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 910820, 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 Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a CPTPP Certificate of Origin is typically required, depending on the specific agreement and jurisdiction.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 910812 HS 910811 HS 910910 HS 910310 HS 910212 HS 910890

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 910820, 'Watches, wrist-watches and pocket-watches, with case of precious metal or of metal clad with precious metal, with automatic winding'?

Import duty rates for HS code 910820 vary by country. For example, under the US HTS, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is 2.8% ad valorem. Under the EU TARIC system, the rate is 1.1% ad valorem. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a rate of 1.1% ad valorem. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country for the definitive rate, as preferential rates under trade agreements may apply.

What specific criteria define a watch under HS 910820, particularly regarding 'automatic winding'?

HS code 910820 covers wrist-watches and pocket-watches with cases made of precious metal or metal clad with precious metal, and crucially, featuring automatic winding mechanisms. Automatic winding means the watch's mainspring is wound by the motion of the wearer's wrist, through an oscillating weight or rotor. The watch must also meet the general definition of a watch, typically meaning it displays hours, minutes, and seconds, and is designed to be worn on the wrist or carried in a pocket.

How is the import duty for HS 910820 calculated, and can you provide an example?

The duty for HS 910820 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if a shipment of watches classified under HS 910820 has a declared customs value of $10,000 and the applicable duty rate is 2.8% (e.g., US MFN rate), the import duty would be calculated as: $10,000 (value) × 0.028 (duty rate) = $280.00. Some countries may also apply minimum or maximum duties per piece, which would need to be considered.

What documentation is typically required for importing watches under HS code 910820?

Standard import documentation for HS 910820 includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the watches; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, due to the precious metal content, proof of origin may be required, and specific declarations regarding the composition of the case (e.g., karat of gold, purity of platinum) might be necessary. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications of the watch movement to confirm the 'automatic winding' feature and the case material.

Do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU trade deals, offer preferential duty rates for HS 910820?

Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS 910820. For example, if the watches originate from a country that is part of a free trade agreement with the importing country, a reduced or zero duty rate may apply. To claim preferential treatment, importers must typically provide a Certificate of Origin or other acceptable proof demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. It is essential for importers and customs brokers to verify the origin of the goods and consult the specific provisions of applicable trade agreements.