Why are watches from Japan so cheap?
To say the least, the number one reason is “inexpensiveness.” Foreign brand-name wristwatches can be purchased in Japan at astonishingly low prices! There are several reasons for this. Firstly, regular prices in Japan are low to begin with, as wristwatch specialty stores in Japan have strong purchasing power.
- United Kingdom (VAT Rate: 20%)
- Australia (GST Rate: 10%) ...
- Switzerland (VAT Rate: 7.7%) ...
- Singapore (GST Rate: 7%) ...
- United Arab Emirates (VAT Rate: 5%) ...
- Hong Kong (No VAT) ...
- United States. ...
- Brazil (Average VAT Rate: 17%) R 32,300 = AU$11,978.58 (1 AUD = 2.69648 BRL // 05.06.2019) ...
The differences between Swiss and Japanese movements are mostly that Swiss movements are typically more aesthetically designed, whereas Japanese movements are built more with precision and accuracy in mind. Both are used to power watches of all different kinds, and used by many watchmakers around the world.
Since 2015 or so, luxury sports watches have become increasingly popular in Japan. And not just Rolex – certain models by Swiss brands Audemars Piguet, Patek Philippe and Richard Mille are also particularly prized.
Branded watches are one among such options that are relatively cheaper in the US than in India. You can count the most expensive brands like Fossil and Kenneth Cole among them.
Unlike watches that are sold in Switzerland, which aren't really any cheaper (read this article to find out why!), Dubai actually offers luxury watches, especially Rolex watches, for a slightly cheaper price. However, the difference in price is usually only around $100 bucks.
If you are looking for a cheap yet authentic Rolex, you might consider traveling abroad to buy it. Because prices fluctuate depending on the country you're in and the currency value at the time.
Furthermore, Japanese automatic movements are generally more affordable without sacrificing functionality or performance. It's worth noting that Seiko isn't the only Japanese company that makes automatic watches (since Seiko has a number of movement models).
Seiko is an electronics and fashion company based in Japan that is well known for its watches, clocks, and other luxury devices. In 1969, it released the first quartz watch and, since then, has become famous for its quality wristwatches.
They stand for the best quality, craftsmanship and exceptional marketing. Japanese brands on the other hand almost follow “practical” and “functional” as the two buzzwords of their watchmaking needs.
Is it safe to buy a Rolex from Japan?
No Fakes Exist in Japan, even among Second-hand Luxury Watches. Another distinctive feature of Japan is its well-developed second-hand market. At shops that buy back luxury brand items, there are always highly skilled appraisal staff, so absolutely no fakes are carried in these shops.
Rolex did not use a Japanese quartz movement, instead, this was a movement used by about 20 swiss watch manufacturers, including Omega, Piaget, and Patek Philippe. These maisons formed the Centre Electronic Horloger (CEH) to create Swiss-made quartz movements designed to surpass other quartz movements.
Rolex SA headquarters in Geneva | |
---|---|
Key people | Jean-Frederic Dufour (CEO) |
Products | Watches |
Production output | >2 million pieces (2020) |
Revenue | $13 billion (2021) |
France, Italy, and the United Kingdom have a high number of luxury labels that you can buy without having to pay import taxes and other fees. A Louis Vuitton Neverfull bag, for example, is 30% to 40% cheaper if you purchase it in France instead of the United States.
Most stuff is cheaper in the US.
The prices and the discounts :
In general, watch prices are always the same as they are on the official watch website, so it is better to take a look at your favourite watch's price on the official website in advance. Regarding watch discounts, most watch boutiques and department stores in Paris do not offer discounts.
Watches are not cheaper in Switzerland. Although this is a country of manufacture for most (high-end) Swiss watches, you still pay full retail everywhere in the world. Some models might be reduced in price, but Switzerland specifically, doesn't offer more discounts than other countries.
Watches aren't really that cheap here in Doha. Though you can always try Inflight Sales onboard the aircraft - they usually have some of the latest designs and prices are quite good sometimes.
Australia in my books has been the cheapest place to buy watches.
Hong Kong. Hong Kong may be the country that is most known for its cheaper prices when it comes to the cheapest countries to buy luxury watches. It is the number one market for Swiss watch exports, and in theory, this bulk purchasing power can provide some discounts.