Watches of Switzerland

[toon10]

Probably a very stupid question but I'm in T5 quite a lot with work and I always pop into Watches of Switzerland for a browse. I'm looking into buying a Speedmaster in the summer and WoS display a "tax free" price.

I'm not familiar on how you qualify to not pay the tax or do they just discount them at the equivalent of the tax so it is paid but you get the watch cheaper? (or are they relaying on you to declare it at the arriving airport?)

A quick search on their site and they have the following in the FAQ section.

04. Can you buy tax free if you fly within the EU?
Yes, we offer tax free equivalent prices to everyone travelling within the EU, excluding Rolex and Tudor.

Can anyone clarify how/why you would get a new watch cheaper than walking into a high street shop?

[toon10]

I'm not too sure. This is the watch (although RRP has gone up since I took this.)

They're advertising the actual price and "tax free" price.

[toon10]

I've done a lot of searching and popped into a lot of shops but I've only ever seen this watch cheaper than RRP at WoS and on Dom H's website. Given Dom's reputation on here I'm happy use him but I'm rarely in London (other than T5) so wouldn't be able to do much in person or get the strap altered. I'm happy to pay the "tax free" price in Heathrow but I don't want to do it if I'm supposed to declare it and end up paying the tax anyway (or a fine.)

[toon10]

Wills2 said:

If the EU price is tax paid (which it should be) you won't be liable for any tax or fine, it will show the VAT on the receipt.

They state they are offering an equivalent of a tax free price to EU travellers.

I'll be in T5 on Saturday I'll ask them.

I hope that's the case. I'd really appreciate the clarification if you're over that way on Saturday. Virtual pint heading your way

[toon10]

Thanks for all the help. I'm in touch with Dom so hopefully I'll have some pictures to display in the wrist check thread soon!