Purchasing a Panerai Abroad-- Curaçao

[uscmatt99]

I've been lurking here for awhile, but this is my first post. You guys really got me turned on to PAM's, to the point I can't stop thinking about picking one up. I'm in Curaçao with my wife for a week, and there is a local jeweler called Freeport Jewelers that states its an authourized Panerai, AP, etc. seller. They do a lot of marketing towards tourists and seem legit. Anybody with experience purchasing here or elsewhere abroad?

Prices are in USD, and as a US citizen I'd save a fair amount on the taxes alone. But I wasn't sure how one factors in duty on these items. Some merchandise is advertised as duty free, but it's hard to imagine a higher end item making its way back to the US without some fees on the way in. Any thoughts?

[mrarchiegoodwin]

US Customs set a threshold cost of merchandise up to which import duties need not be paid. I can't recall the amount, but I thought it was rather generous (USD10,000 or is that the amount of cash you can carry). Perhaps you can phone the airline or ask Freeport Jewelers. There's no duty on art objects. Must admit there's artistry in a PAM.

[p_mcgee]

I bought a Rolex at Kirk Freeport in Grand Cayman. They're prices are good and that location has a good inventory of many great brands. Unfortunately getting an appraisal out of them after the purchase was kind of an ordeal that took a few angry phone calls. Make sure you get them to agree to write up an appraisal immediately before paying them.

As far as customs, I think you are supposed to declare whatever you buy but I'm not sure what % of people actually do that vs. taking the tags off & wearing the watch through customs.

[p_mcgee]

Disregard, I guess Freeport in Curacao is different than Kirk Freeport. Sorry to vent!