For savvy international shoppers, combining the wholesale power of 1688.com with the expertise of a purchasing agent like CSSBuy unlocks access to a world of products, including luxury items like Longines watches, often at significantly lower prices. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from finding a reliable source to having the watch shipped to your doorstep. As a Chinese proxy and forwarder, CSSBuy simplifies buying from platforms that typically don't ship overseas, such as 1688 (Alibaba's domestic wholesale site). An excellent starting point for your search is the community-driven product list found at https://sheet.cheap/. This spreadsheet often contains links to various products, including watch vendors, though due diligence is always required.
Before diving in, it's crucial to understand what you're buying. Longines watches sold on 1688 can range from authentic overstock models to high-quality replicas. The listing descriptions and prices usually indicate the nature of the product. Use the resource at https://sheet.cheap/CSSBuy
Navigate to 1688.com. Since the site is in Chinese, use your browser's translation feature. Search using terms like "浪琴手表" (Longines watch). You will encounter numerous listings. Pay close attention to the store's transaction history, customer reviews (which can be translated), and seller ratings. The price point is a major indicator—extremely low prices almost certainly signify replica watches. Copy the URL of the product page you are interested in. Examine all product images and specifications carefully. The spreadsheet link mentioned earlier can sometimes offer direct product links or store recommendations, saving you initial search time.
Log into your CSSBuy account. Locate the "Order" or "Buy for Me" section. Paste the full 1688 product URL into the designated field. Now, you must input all critical details: Product PriceProduct SpecificationsQuantity, and any special remarks for the agent (e.g., "please ask the seller for QC photos before shipping to warehouse"). CSSBuy will calculate a total upfront cost including their service fee. Proceed to pay this amount. CSSBuy will then assign a purchasing agent who will buy the item on your behalf.
Once the seller ships the item, it will arrive at CSSBuy's secure warehouse in China. This is a vital stage. CSSBuy offers a paid Quality Check (QC)
After approving the QC photos, you must arrange international shipment. Go to the "Warehouse" or "Parcels" section of your CSSBuy account. Select the watch item(s) you wish to ship. You will then choose from various international shipping lines (e.g., DHL, EMS, FedEx, or CSSBuy's own sea/air lines). Each line has different prices, speed, and reliability profiles. Consider declaring an appropriate value for customs. CSSBuy will repackage your watch, often offering additional protective services like bubble wrap or box removal to reduce volumetric weight. Pay the final shipping fee, and your parcel will be dispatched. You will receive a tracking number to monitor its journey to your country.
The final hurdle is customs in your destination country. Be aware of your country's import regulations and taxes for watches. Luxury items often attract duties. CSSBuy may provide optional services like "invoice modification," but you must comply with your local laws. The shipping carrier will usually handle customs clearance and contact you if any payment or documentation is required. Once cleared, your package will be out for local delivery. Upon receipt, inspect the watch immediately. In the rare case of damage during transit, contact CSSBuy support with photo evidence to discuss possible insurance claims, depending on the shipping line you selected.
Purchasing a Longines watch via a proxy service requires patience and attention to detail. While platforms like 1688 and resource lists such as the public product spreadsheet