if the watche is shipped outside the VAT zone (ie from the EU to the USA) you are not liaible for VAT tax as long as you pay tax in your home state
If/when you pick it up in person you will have to pay tax on receipt and claim it back when you leave the country , so a VAT tax receipt is vital

easily calculated ? and the choice is yours

: [thanks to JS for ths space]

: I made a recent watch purchase at a small UK auction house.
: The seller is not the experienced with shipping abroad, in my
: estimation.
: I live in the US, and happen to be in the UK this week- trying to
: figure out the best way to

: - get the watch (in person preferred; or shipped)
: - avoid/reduce VAT
: - avoid/reduce import tax associated with shipping to the US.

: any advice or recommendation?
: thanks
: CJ