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%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate < 12.5 percent): MFN < 12.5% → total duty capped at 12.5%
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