The basic G-Shock (e.g 5600 model) will be around $50 which I think is a fair price given the ruggedness of the thing. More expensive models (like 5610) will be in $100 range since they have solar cells and self-adjust based on radio signals from atomic clocks. I think that's fair (I don't have one though, I'm cheap :) ).
It's taking the mickey. Even with adding VAT, US prices are still much lower than Europe an all consumer goods made overseas, Casios, MacBooks, etc. A G-Shock in US is 50 USD, in Europe it's 80 Euros, which i 88 USD. Insane difference. An M2 MacBook air starts from 1200 USD while it's 1500 Euros or 1650 USD. We're being taken for a ride.
You might be. OTOH, you have far more robust consumer protection laws - ISTR reading that UK law requires that you be able to return a product to the place where you bought it for two years or so and get warranty service or replacement. Don't know how it works in EU countries, but that was a pre-Brexit anecdote.
In the US, there are numerous products for which any warranty service requires you to send it to the manufacturer. Only DOA can be addressed at the point of purchase.
I just don't buy that markets there are so inefficient that all electronics manufacturers are colluding to artificially increase prices over other markets. There must be other reasons why prices are higher. In addition to VAT/tariffs, maybe the consumer protection laws lead to more returns for refund, or something.
I got the 5610BC so I'd get the combi-bracelet with clasp and it was well worth the extra money. It is very adjustable, durable, comfortable, and looks great.
