Ordering A-2 jackets from the US

[Azegami]

I am thinking of ordering a Monarch or a Werber A-2 from Goodwear Leather. I just wanted some opinion regarding these 2 jackets from those who own either one. I know John makes excellent reproductions but does anyone recommend one over the other?

Also a question for those who live in the UK who have previously ordered a Goodwear jacket. How much custom fees do you end up paying??

 

[CBI]

John does a great job with both contracts however I am a huge Werber fan. The cut is very smart, athletic and flattering. John makes a much nicer Monarch IMO than the original makers! Its a great jacket but the cut is much looser. more generic, less shapely than the Werber. Again, John will make a great Monarch as well.

My experience is with original Webers, Monarchs and John's Werbers.

 

[Rockin' Dog]

Not sure about the cost of importing a leather jacket ...though this online calculator may help you.
http://www.dutycalculator.com/new-import-duty-and-tax-calculation/

I've bought plenty of clothing online though, from the USA into the UK ...and the costs can vary considerably depending on how its processed.
Its something like total "landed" cost (item value + shipping + insurance) gets import duty ...then that total gets hit with VAT. Nice Huh?
Hope that helps?

 

[CBI]

I happend to talk to John Chapman today and he mentioned he saw this post. He said he has a very good reference pattern for the Monarch now and that its a really nice contract.

 

[Edward]

Information is all here: http://customs.hmrc.gov.uk/channels...Travel_ShowContent&id=HMCE_CL_000014#P20_1785

Last time I got stung, it was in the region of 4.5% import taxes on item cost plus shipping, then VAT on the total of that. VAT is at 20% currently. More often that not they'll shaft you by treating the dollar amount as if it was pounds, charging you more than they should. Parcelforce also specialise in urine extraction by adding in a "handling fee" of about GBP15.00. Back when we got USD 2.20 to the pound, it was worth it.... these days, I'd need to either really want something, or the price difference to be significant before it was worth it to order from the US.

 

[Azegami]

Thanks alot guys. I decided to go for the Monarch in the end!