Collective Horology Sues Trump Administration Over New Tariffs on Swiss Watches
Collective Horology, a watch retailer and collectors club based in California, has initiated legal action against President Donald Trump and his administration regarding tariffs imposed on Swiss watches, which took effect on July 24 at rates of 10% and 12.5%. The lawsuit, lodged in the U.S. Court of International Trade, argues that these tariffs are illegal and that the president does not possess the authority to enforce them. Joining the lawsuit is New York spice company Burlap and Barrel, represented by the Liberty Justice Center, which has previously contested Trump's tariffs in the Supreme Court. Collective Horology expects to pay $8,280 in tariffs on $69,000 worth of imports and has already incurred over $160,000 in tariffs since April 2025, significantly affecting the watch industry and leading to a drop in Swiss exports to the U.S.
Key facts
- Collective Horology sued President Trump and his administration over new tariffs on Swiss watches.
- The tariffs, set at 10% and 12.5%, took effect on July 24.
- The lawsuit was filed under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974.
- Collective Horology is joined by Burlap and Barrel, a New York spice brand.
- The plaintiffs are represented by the Liberty Justice Center.
- Collective Horology would owe about $8,280 in tariffs on upcoming imports worth around $69,000.
- The company has already paid over $160,000 in tariff fees since April 2025.
- Trump first imposed a 39% tariff on Swiss exports in August 2025, later reduced to 15% in November.
Entities
Artists
- Asher Rapkin
Institutions
- Collective Horology
- Burlap and Barrel
- Liberty Justice Center
- U.S. Court of International Trade
- Supreme Court
- The New York Times
- Hodinkee
- Robb Report
Locations
- United States
- Switzerland
- California
- New York