Where to buy a Grand Seiko in Japan?

[scarlet knight]

We are going on a cruise around Japan next year. My wife, who knows me well, said why don’t you buy a watch while we are there? Anyone know a good AD in Japan? We will be in Tokyo a few days, then all over the place.

[PJ S]

BIC is one of the cheapest, especially when not paying VAT on production of passport.
Certain models though are Master something only, which means won’t be available to the likes BIC, etc.
For those, you’d be looking at the standalone Boutique store, the one in WAKO dept store, and a handful of select ADs.

[Ichiran]

Try the major department stores, as there are usually a section of the mall dedicated to watches of most major brands, including GS. BIC is great but they do not sell certain models like the Snowflake.

I recall there is an additional 5% foreigners' discount, on top of the VAT refund, at Hankyu Umeda in Osaka.

Happy shopping and do try all the fantastic cuisine there!

[Old Expat Beast]

Here you go: https://www.grand-seiko.com/global-e...ia/japan/list/

I usually avoid the boutiques and buy from places like Bic Camera, where you can get about 20% off list (and the 8% sales tax refund), but still have all correct box/papers/warranty stuff.

[ajas]

Bic Camera, yodobashi

Sent from my SM-N935F using Tapatalk

[PJ S]

Just one thing to bear in mind, the warranty on GS is two years international – any extension will be locally only, and similarly when you return home. Seiko USA will not grant you any additional timeframe like they do with officially imported ones.
Not a big thing, but still something to be aware of.

[Old Expat Beast]

GS international warranty was increased to three years last year.

[PJ S]

^
Was it?
Well that’s handy then.

[benlee]

For best selection and the latest model /limited edition, it will be the Grand Seiko Wako Boutique and Seiko Premier Boutique at Ginza. However, they don't discount over there.

[scarlet knight]

If I buy a Grand Seiko in Japan, what kind of duties do I get hit by from the US and Japan?

[Old Expat Beast]

Sales tax in Japan is 8% but that is waived at point if sale if you have your passport with you. Not sure about USA.

[descartes]

Wako in Tokyo (in the heart of Ginza) has a great selection of Grand Seiko, Credor, dice watches. You name it.

[Seattlerf]

Visit the WACO building - Seiko Flagship boutique only a block,or two away from Shibuya Station. Can’t miss the building. Don’t buy there, however because they don’t discount.

[tom2517]

Originally Posted by Seattlerf

Visit the WACO building - Seiko Flagship boutique only a block,or two away from Shibuya Station. Can’t miss the building. Don’t buy there, however because they don’t discount.

I think you meant the Ginza station. Shibuya station is a long way.

[ragsk]

I am in Tokyo soon. Been there so many times but never even been into a watch shop there. Will try to take a look.

[PJ S]

Originally Posted by ragsk

I am in Tokyo soon. Been there so many times but never even been into a watch shop there. Will try to take a look.

Why break the habit of a lifetime?

[scarlet knight]

Originally Posted by ragsk

I am in Tokyo soon. Been there so many times but never even been into a watch shop there. Will try to take a look.

Good selection plus fair discount=winner! And show us the watch you buy!

[ragsk]

Originally Posted by PJ S

Why break the habit of a lifetime?

Getting more and more into GS. Have two now and I really like them. I only go to Tokyo for about 2 nights max but will try to squeeze in some watch time. Staying in Marunouchi this time so not a perfect location to go to Ginza or Roppongi but lets see.

[ragsk]

Originally Posted by scarlet knight

Good selection plus fair discount=winner! And show us the watch you buy!

May not buy anything! Need to take a breather - have bought far too many watches recently

[scarlet knight]

Enjoy looking! My cruise isn’t till next year. My break consists of buying Seikos and Orients and changing straps on watches I haven’t been wearing.