Watches and Wonders Geneva (formerly Baselworld, which was held in Basel for over a century before transitioning) is the watch industry's annual gathering of top maisons, held at Palexpo adjacent to Geneva Airport each April. Non-Swiss exhibitors — including EU and non-EU brands — need an ATA Carnet to import watches, jewelry, and display equipment into Switzerland, which has its own customs territory separate from the EU.
Exhibitors from outside Switzerland (including both EU and non-EU companies) typically need an ATA Carnet to bring watches, jewelry, and equipment into Switzerland for Watches and Wonders. Switzerland is not an EU member, so EU-origin goods cross an international customs border. The carnet allows duty-free temporary importation for up to 12 months.
Unlike trade shows in France or Germany, even EU-based companies bringing goods to Geneva typically need an ATA Carnet. Switzerland has its own customs authority and its own border with the EU. Check with your national guaranteeing association if you are based in the EU and are unsure whether a carnet is required for your specific situation.
6–8 weeks before the show (February)
Begin equipment and watch collection list. Switzerland has different carnet rules than the EU — ensure Swiss import procedures are clearly understood.
4–5 weeks before
Submit carnet application. Include all watches, jewelry, and display equipment with accurate values. Swiss Customs verifies declared values against market pricing for luxury goods.
2 weeks before
Receive carnet. Review all items — Swiss Customs is known to be meticulous. Certificates of authenticity and appraisals are helpful for high-value pieces.
Arrival at GVA
Present carnet to Swiss Customs at Geneva Airport. Officers stamp importation vouchers. Allow extra time during show week — GVA is extremely busy.
Show days
Keep carnet at your exhibit. Swiss Customs conducts thorough verification of luxury goods at Geneva watch fairs.
Departure from Switzerland
Obtain re-exportation stamps from Swiss Customs before leaving Switzerland. Critical for discharge — Swiss Customs follows up on unverified carnets.
Within 2 weeks of return
Return completed carnet to EasyCarnet for USCIB or Canadian Chamber discharge.
Geneva Airport (Genève-Aéroport) (GVA)
Primary gateway for Watches and Wonders; Swiss Customs familiar with carnet processing for luxury goods during April show
Zurich Airport (ZRH)
Alternative gateway; 3 hours from Geneva by train — useful for international connections not serving GVA
Palexpo Geneva
Watches and Wonders venue adjacent to Geneva Airport; freight coordinated through official show logistics partner
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Starting at $499 for equipment under $10k. Same-day processing available.
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