Buying an expensive watch in Geneva

[HappyGirlNow]

Can anyone pls help with this? Booked a Geneva trip for my husband's 50th to buy him a watch (all a surprise) and am now pondering on the wisdom of that... It's Swiss Francs and Think financially it's probably not the best scenario..

However, it's all about the experience.. So, any tips? I believe you can claim tax back on purchases? For info, it'll probably be a Breitling or similar, budget around 5k. Thanks.

[HappyGirlNow]

Anyone?

[mowglik]

Are you going specifically for the watch or do you have other stuff planned? If your husband is a watch enthusiast he might enjoy a trip round the IWC factory which you can book ahead of time.

Sorry I haven't any experience on tax refund in switzerland but have made in other countries for watch purchases and the usual thing is to get the vat refunded at the airport. Ask at the shop you buy from though, they will be best placed to advise.

Apart from that, always always haggle! And see if you can get a service or 2 thrown in etc

[HappyGirlNow]

Brill thanks mowglik - I had looked at the Patek Phillipe museum but it's closed Sundays and Monday's (the 2 days we're there) so I'll check IWC out.

We're staying at the Four Seasons and have a nice dinner planned and an afternoon tea.. But all the Michelin restaurants seem to be closed Sundays and Mondays too.. Which is a bit annoying. And Il Lago at the hotel is closed for refurb.

[ababsurdum]

I bought a watch in Verbier about eight years ago. The shop charged me net of tax and gave me a form to post in a box at the airport on the way home. Have a look at some prices of the styles you like before you go then you can do the maths if you find one you like and see if it's good value. Have a great time.

[HappyGirlNow]

Great thank you ab I suspect it's not good value but it's a big birthday and more about the experience

[gonegrey56]

If you are bringing a tax free purchase back into the UK, you will be liable for VAT on it, surely? I have been stopped several times over the years and asked where I purchased my expensive watch (in UK, have the receipt, it has been on my uk insurance policy for ever etc).