About HS Code 911120
This HS code covers watch cases made from common or "base" metals such as stainless steel, brass, titanium, or aluminum. It also includes cases that have been plated with gold or silver, provided the plating is not substantial enough to qualify as "clad with precious metal" (which falls under 911110). These cases form the backbone of the mass-market and mid-range watch industry, offering durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. Importers range from large-scale watch assemblers and fashion brands to micro-brands. Exporters are often specialized case manufacturers, predominantly from Asia, but also from Europe for higher-quality steel or titanium cases. Key considerations include material grade (e.g., 316L stainless steel), water resistance ratings, finishing techniques (brushed, polished), and design complexity. This trade is driven by global consumer demand for affordable yet stylish and robust timepieces, making it a high-volume segment of the watch component market.
Products Under This Code
Stainless steel watch cases, titanium watch cases, brass watch cases, aluminum watch cases, gold-plated steel cases, silver-plated brass cases, bronze watch cases, PVD-coated cases.
Real World Examples
Seiko 5 Sports case (steel), Citizen Promaster case (titanium), Fossil watch case (steel), Timex Weekender case (brass), Orient Bambino case (steel), Tissot PRX case (steel).
Common Misclassification
Can be confused with 911110 if the plating is mistakenly considered "cladding," or with 911180 if made from non-metallic materials like ceramic or plastic.
Products Classified Under 9111.20
Industry
This code belongs to the Instruments & Apparatus industry.
Trade Overview
China, Hong Kong, and Switzerland are major exporters of base metal watch cases, with global watch manufacturers as key importers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 911120?
HS code 911120 covers: Watch cases; of base metal, whether or not gold-plated or silver-plated. This HS code covers watch cases made from common or "base" metals such as stainless steel, brass, titanium, or aluminum. It also includes cases that have been plated with gold or silver, provided the plating is not substantial enough to qualify as "clad with precious metal" (which falls under 911110). These cases form the backbone of the mass-market and mid-range watch industry, offering durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. Importers range from large-scale watch assemblers and fashion brands to micro-brands. Exporters are often specialized case manufacturers, predominantly from Asia, but also from Europe for higher-quality steel or titanium cases. Key considerations include material grade (e.g., 316L stainless steel), water resistance ratings, finishing techniques (brushed, polished), and design complexity. This trade is driven by global consumer demand for affordable yet stylish and robust timepieces, making it a high-volume segment of the watch component market.
What products fall under HS code 911120?
Stainless steel watch cases, titanium watch cases, brass watch cases, aluminum watch cases, gold-plated steel cases, silver-plated brass cases, bronze watch cases, PVD-coated cases.
What are common misclassifications for HS code 911120?
Can be confused with 911110 if the plating is mistakenly considered "cladding," or with 911180 if made from non-metallic materials like ceramic or plastic.
How is HS code 911120 structured?
HS code 911120 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (91) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (11) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (20) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.