I'm currently planning a multi-week, multi-country travel this spring for our 40th anniversary. (from the US), Italy will be entry point, and i'm currently planning to exit from Switzerland (hoping to see the Omega museum). We've been to Europe several times, although I've never had watches to worry about. Now i have a small collection i generally take with me (5 watch roll plus what's on my wrist). Some new, some old, total value less than what one Sub is worth. Been reading this thread and the article (several times) and multiple searches on "do i declare my watches when entering Switzerland?". Oh, and my wife does have jewelry and "some" purses and shoes with significant value.
it's not clear, and as a visitor i DO want to understand and follow the rules of the land, it pi$$es me off endlessly when people act as if the rules apply to someone else. BUT, I'm not sure i understand. so, it looks like I have two choices
a. Skip Switzerland; exit from Paris (an entirely acceptable option)
b. Don't take the watches and buy ONE watch from the "good GMT <$2K" thread
(I'm strongly considering this option). Technically i guess i'd have to declare this one as well, but at least it's on my wrist and clearly for personal use. I may also buy a watch while on the trip, but i fully understand the VAT process and declaring when returning to the US. Presumably when entering Switzerland with said purchase, it would be in a box and i'd have all the paperwork, so no major issues there.
it's interesting that any country desiring the tourist money, makes it difficult for the traveler to understand their rules. I get the whole "personal property" concept, and the discussion about declaring multiple watches (OK, "most" people only have one or two) seems almost as silly as declaring the 6 or so pairs of boxer shorts i'll also take with me.
