For watch enthusiasts outside China, acquiring a coveted timepiece like a Longines from Taobao can seem daunting. Language barriers, payment issues, and international shipping create significant hurdles. This is where using a reliable purchasing agent becomes essential. Orientdig, a trusted China-based buying and forwarding platform, specializes in bridging this gap. This guide will walk you through the seamless process of using Orientdig to buy your Longines watch from Taobao.
Why Choose a Platform Like Orientdig?
Taobao is a treasure trove of products, often at attractive prices. However, most sellers do not ship internationally or accept foreign credit cards. Orientdig acts as your personal shopper and freight forwarder. They provide you with a Chinese delivery address, purchase items on your behalf, consolidate packages, and ship them worldwide. Their service includes verification of products, secure payment handling, and customer support, ensuring a smooth and secure transaction—a critical factor when investing in a luxury item.
Preparation: Research and Selection
Your first step is to find the exact Longines model you desire. Use Taobao’s search function, preferably with Chinese keywords (e.g., “浪琴 手表” for Longines watch). Carefully examine seller ratings, customer reviews, and product images. For a comprehensive overview of various models and their typical market prices, an excellent resource is this product introduction spreadsheet. This external list can help you compare specifications and approximate costs before committing to a purchase, ensuring you make an informed decision.
Step 1: Sign Up and Get Your Personal Address
Navigate to the Orientdig website and create a free account. Upon registration, the platform will assign you a unique personal address in their Chinese warehouse. This address consists of your user ID, their warehouse location, and contact details. You will use this address as the shipping destination for your Taobao order.
Step 2: Submit Your Taobao Order Details to Orientdig
Instead of ordering directly on Taobao (which requires a local payment method), you will submit the item’s information to Orientdig. Copy the product URL (the link from the Taobao product page) of your chosen Longines watch. Log into your Orientdig account, find the “Order for Me” or “Submit Link” section, and paste the URL. Fill in the necessary details: quantity, color, size (if applicable), and your specific instructions. You can also request additional quality checks or photos upon arrival at their warehouse.
Step 3: Confirm Fees and Make Payment
Orientdig will then calculate the total cost for you. This includes the product price from Taobao, their service fee (usually a small percentage), and an estimated international shipping cost. They provide a clear breakdown. Once you confirm, you proceed to pay Orientdig directly using their supported international payment methods, such as PayPal, credit card, or bank transfer. This is much more convenient than navigating Chinese payment gateways.
Step 4: Orientdig Purchases and Stores Your Watch
After receiving your payment, Orientdig’s team will immediately purchase the watch from the Taobao seller using their local systems. The watch will be shipped to your personal address at their secure warehouse. When the package arrives, Orientdig can, upon your request, inspect the item, take photos for you, and confirm its condition. This verification step is invaluable for authenticity and peace of mind.
Step 5: Consolidation and International Shipping
If you have purchased other items, you can ask Orientdig to consolidate all your packages into one parcel to save on shipping costs. Once ready, you log into your Orientdig account to select your preferred international courier (e.g., DHL, FedEx, EMS) and pay the final shipping fee. They will expertly pack your Longines watch, handle all customs declaration paperwork, and dispatch it to your doorstep worldwide. You will receive a tracking number to monitor your shipment’s journey.
Final Tips for a Successful Purchase
Always communicate clearly with Orientdig’s customer service if you have any doubts. Consider purchasing shipping insurance for high-value items like luxury watches. Be aware of potential import taxes and duties in your home country, as these are the buyer’s responsibility. By leveraging platforms like Orientdig and utilizing preparatory tools like the product spreadsheet
In summary, using Orientdig transforms the complex task of cross-border e-commerce into a manageable, step-by-step service. From initial research to final delivery, they provide the infrastructure and expertise needed to navigate Taobao successfully. With careful preparation and a trustworthy agent, your new Longines watch is just a few clicks away.