Many times the prices for items like watches are similar to what you'd find at home but there's no sales tax in St. Martin and that can add up to substantial savings if you are buying an expensive item and live in an area with a high sales tax rate. Again, you have to be an informed shopper to get the best value.

St. Martin (and the Dutch side, St. Maarten) is widely regarded as one of the best places in the world to buy luxury watches, primarily because the entire island is a duty-free and tax-free zone. This means you can often find high-end timepieces from brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Breitling, and TAG Heuer at prices that are 15% to 25% lower than the retail price in the United States or Europe, where sales tax or VAT would typically be added. Front Street in Philipsburg is the epicenter of this trade, lined with authorized dealers who have decades of experience. However, "cheaper" is a relative term; while you save on taxes, the "manufacturer's suggested retail price" (MSRP) is often consistent globally, and highly sought-after models may still carry a premium or have long waiting lists. It is vital for buyers to only purchase from authorized retailers to ensure the warranty is valid and the watch is authentic. Additionally, U.S. citizens should remember their customs allowance; while the first $800 of purchases is duty-free upon re-entry, you may be required to pay a flat percentage of duty on the remaining value of an expensive watch, though the total cost usually remains lower than buying at home.