How the grey market works – and where our TAG Heuer watches come from
We think you should know how we work. Here we explain openly what the grey market is, how we source our watches and why the price can be lower – without affecting authenticity.
What is the grey market?
The grey market means the sale of genuine original products through an independent distribution channel – a route other than the manufacturer's usual authorised dealer network. It is not the same as the black market and must not be confused with copies or counterfeits.
TimeDrip AB sells only genuine TAG Heuer products. We are an independent retailer, not an authorised TAG Heuer boutique.
Price differences between channels can arise for several reasons, such as geographic price levels, currency movements, campaigns, inventory optimisation, remaining stock and bulk sales within the EU.
Where can the watches come from?
We source watches through several EU-based purchasing channels. Which channel a given watch comes from varies from batch to batch. Examples of channels we work with:
- 01B2B wholesalers and established watch dealers
- 02Bulk sales and surplus inventory
- 03Remaining stock from retailers and distributors
- 04Warehouse and liquidation lots
- 05Independent European dealers and other professional operators
Buying in batches gives us a better purchase price than buying single pieces, and part of that saving is passed on to you.
Why can the price be lower?
This is the path from purchase to your price.
- 1
Sourcing within the EU
We buy from professional operators within the EU and EEA.
- 2
Batches and surplus stock
Whole lots and remaining stock rather than single pieces.
- 3
Lower purchase cost
Volume and timing give a better cost into our stock.
- 4
Shorter distribution chain
Fewer steps and lower fixed costs on our side.
- 5
Lower price for you
Part of the saving is visible directly in the price on the site.
We do not carry the same cost structure as a traditional physical store with prime retail locations, large warehouses and the same distribution chain. That explains much of the price difference.
Authenticity
The grey market does not make a product any less genuine. The watches we sell are original TAG Heuer, and serial numbers and original documents are handled according to the conditions of each individual product.
Genuine goods placed on the market within the EEA by the trade mark proprietor or with their consent are, as a general rule, covered by the principle of trade mark exhaustion under EU law, subject to the exceptions provided by law. This is general customer information, not legal advice.
Read more about our verification process and documentation on the authenticity page.
Trade mark exhaustion within the EEA
Once a genuine item has been placed on the market within the EEA by the trade mark proprietor or with their consent, the proprietor cannot, as a general rule, rely on trade mark rights to prevent the further resale of that particular item. Exceptions exist, for instance where the condition of the goods has been changed or impaired.
Background: the principle of exhaustion in the EU Trade Mark Regulation (EU) 2017/1001. This is simplified customer information and not legal advice.
Warranty
We clearly separate our own responsibility from any manufacturer warranty. TimeDrip provides a four-year warranty on movement and case, and you always have your rights under Swedish consumer law when buying from us.
TAG Heuer's international warranty has its own terms. Its validity may depend on the warranty card being correctly completed and activated by an authorised dealer, and on TAG Heuer's other conditions. We therefore cannot promise the scope of the manufacturer's warranty for an individual watch.
For current information about TAG Heuer's international warranty, please refer to TAG Heuer's own warranty terms. TAG Heuer warranty terms.
What does it mean for you?
Genuine original product
Only genuine TAG Heuer.
Lower price
Alternative sourcing channels and bulk purchases within the EU.
Delivery from EU stock
According to the delivery information stated on the site.
Swedish consumer rights
Your rights under applicable Swedish law apply when buying from us.
TimeDrip's own warranty and any manufacturer warranty from TAG Heuer are two separate things.
Frequently asked questions
The information on this page is general customer information and does not constitute legal advice. The terms for each purchase are set out in our terms of purchase.