Collective Horology Launches Legal Battle Against Trump Administration Over 'Unlawful' Tariffs

Collective Horology LLC, an independent watch retailer, is making a stand against the Trump Administration over new tariff duties, deeming them ‘unlawful’. In a lawsuit filed in July on behalf of the Ventura-California company, it’s alleged that the new tariffs lack congressional approval, and inflict damage upon American businesses.

The tariffs, imposing levies of 10% and 12.5% on goods imported into the U.S, are claimed in the lawsuit to exceed the President’s authority for such measures. This decisive action from Collective Horology signifies a significant response from the watch industry which financially, has had its legs cut off by these levies. These, alongside a strong Swiss franc, a challenging economic environment and record high precious metals prices, have hit the industry hard.

These tariffs have come at a high cost to Collective Horology. Since their introduction by the Trump White House and U.S Trade Representative Greer, the company has already paid more than $160,000 in tariff duties. Despite a Supreme Court ruling in February declaring Trump did not have the authority to levy his first round of tariffs, the administration has maintained them using alternative laws. These tariffs have left Collective awaiting refunds not yet received.

From this battle emerges a concern for smaller retailers. These businesses, lacking the capital reserves or the negotiating leverage of larger multinational conglomerates, feel the impact of a 10-12.5% duty immediately and substantially. Collaboration with the Liberty Justice Center, a non-profit litigator advocating for Constitutional freedoms including economic liberty and free speech, has inspired a fight for justice.