If you're planning to buy a Rimowa in Europe--go here, ask for Michael, and thank me later. He…read moretipped me off that this store handles VAT a little differently, and I walked away with the biggest refund I've ever gotten from any store in Italy.
Michael Mendoza, my SA, was a standout: thoughtful, honest, and seriously knowledgeable. I came in torn between two pieces, and he talked me through the pros and cons, even pointing out minor QC issues I might've missed after he brought them out. Despite following the brand for nearly a decade, I still learned a few things from him--like finding the production date or using the hidden NFC tag.
When I couldn't grab the item same day, he offered to let me buy now and pick up tomorrow or reserve it until tomorrow, and even shared his WhatsApp to help me pre & post purchase. He also gave me a heads up about the start of Milan Design Week chaos, and just to be prepared for crowds, extra pickpockets, and buffer time, as I had a tight itinerary through the rest of my Milan trip.
TL;DR: Great experience, great guy, greater VAT.