Gold-Plated Metal Watch Case from Japan
Base metal watch case with thick 18K gold plating meeting wear-resistance standards. Still classified under HTS 9112.20.40.00 as primarily metal case, not precious metal per Chapter 91 notes. Plating constitutes less than 50% total value.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of Japan, with an ad valorem (or ad valorem equivalent) rate of duty under column 1 less than 12.5 percent, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• Plating assay certificates required; thickness below 2 microns risks Chapter 71 jewelry classification
• Separate plating value from base metal in commercial invoice for proper duty calculation
• Declare as 'gold-plated base metal' not 'gold case' to avoid higher Chapter 71 rates