1688.com is a massive B2B marketplace owned by the Alibaba Group, primarily catering to domestic Chinese businesses. It often features products at near-wholesale prices. However, its interface is almost entirely in Mandarin, and most sellers do not ship internationally or accept foreign payment methods. Loongbuy acts as a bridge, offering a comprehensive shopping agent service. They handle everything from browsing and communication to international shipping and quality control, making the process accessible to global customers.

Step 1: Registration and Account Setup

Your journey begins on the Loongbuy website. The registration process is straightforward, requiring a valid email address. Once registered, familiarize yourself with the user dashboard. This is where you will manage your orders, submit shipping requests, and track packages. An essential feature is the "Member Center," where you can top up your account balance, which is used to pay for items and services.

Step 2: Finding the Product on 1688

Navigate to 1688.com and search for the desired Audemars Piguet model. Be precise with your search terms; using the model reference number (e.g., 15400ST.OO.1220ST.01 for a Royal Oak) yields the best results. Once you find a promising listing, copy the entire URL from your browser's address bar. Carefully review the product images, descriptions, and seller ratings. Use a browser like Google Chrome with its built-in translation feature to comprehend the product details.

Step 3: Submitting the Order on Loongbuy

Return to your Loongbuy dashboard and locate the order submission form, often labeled "Purchase for Me" or "Buy for Me." Paste the 1688 product link into the designated field. You must then specify crucial details: the exact product name, the unit price in Chinese Yuan (CNY) as listed on 1688, the quantity, and the desired product options (e.g., color, size). In the remarks section, clearly state any specific requirements, such as "Please verify authenticity with seller before purchase" or "Request high-resolution photos upon arrival at your warehouse." This extra communication helps mitigate risks.

Step 4: Payment and Warehousing

After submitting the order, Loongbuy's system will calculate the total cost, including their service fee. You will need to pay this amount using your account balance. Loongbuy's purchasing team will then place the order with the 1688 seller on your behalf. Once the seller ships the watch, it will be delivered to Loongbuy's secure domestic warehouse in China. Upon arrival, the warehouse staff will inspect the item for any obvious damage and, upon your request, provide you with detailed quality check photos.

Step 5: International Shipping and Customs

After confirming you are satisfied with the product photos, you can proceed to submit a shipping request. Loongbuy will professionally pack the watch to ensure its safety during transit. You will need to choose an international shipping method (e.g., DHL, FedEx, EMS) and provide your complete shipping address. Loongbuy will then provide a shipping quote based on the package's weight and dimensions. It is your responsibility to be aware of and comply with your country's customs regulations and import duties for luxury goods. Once shipped, you will receive a tracking number to monitor your precious cargo's journey.

Final Recommendations and Verification

While this process is efficient, patience is key. Factor in time for seller processing, domestic shipping in China, and international transit. Upon receiving your Audemars Piguet watch, it is highly advisable to have it authenticated by an independent, certified watchmaker or an official Audemars Piguet service center. This final step provides ultimate peace of mind for your significant investment.