Decisions, decisions (Heuer Carrera 1964 content)

So I have the chance to buy this, my birth year watch, for an ok (but not cheap) price (over $3000, under $4000). But as I have to get it from the US to the UK, it will add 20% VAT to it, taking it from an ok price to an expensive one. However, they don't come up too often. So am trying to decide whether to still take the plunge, or not. Not seen it in person. But it's in good condition. Hmmmmmm.....

what would you do?

weird.

I contacted the person who sold the watch to the current owner, as below:

Subject: 1964 carrera you sold a while ago

hi - can you give me any info on the 64 Carrara you sold a while ago? Specifically, can you provide any evidence it was vat paid in the eu, as I am possibly buying it from the person you sold it to, who is in the US, and I’ll have to pay vat gain if I import it without evidence…..
best,
Russell.


and he replied

Hi Russel,

I do like to help people out but in this case I do not consider myself a party in this. I would not remember any details and I have no time digging into it. Sorry but I do have other stuff to do as well. Good luck with your deal.


he sold the watch last month.

Now alarm bells are ringing - is this cos I've asked him for receipts etc, and it's hassle, or is it cos he was pleased to shift a dodgy watch and wants nothing more to do with it?!

but now they tell me not their sale. And an independent Heuer expert reckons it's genuine (from photos only)

How much did the original seller sell it for?

didn't say.