1688.com, Alibaba's domestic B2B platform, offers significant discounts compared to western retailers - sometimes 40-60% below retail prices for luxury watches. However, unlike international platforms, 1688 deals directly with Chinese wholesalers and manufacturers, requiring:

• Chinese payment methods (Alipay/UnionPay)
• Domestic shipping addresses
• Chinese language navigation

This is where Kakobuy bridges the gap for international buyers. As a reverse forwarding service, they handle the "China-only" aspects for a reasonable fee.

Step-by-Step Purchase Process

1. Research Valid Sellers

2. Kakobuy Account Setup

Register on Kakobuy's platform and:

1. Obtain your Chinese forwarding address
2. Deposit sufficient funds (they charge 5-8% service fee)
3. Download their mobile app for shipment tracking

3. 1688 Purchase Execution

Using Chrome's auto-translate feature (for non-Chinese speakers):

• Search for "沛纳海手表" (Panerai watches)
• Filter by minimum order quantity = 1
• Parameter selection:
  • Case material (Titanium/Stainless Steel)
  • Movement type (Automatic/Manual)
  • Water resistance depth

Critical Considerations

Authenticity Verification

While many genuine watches exist on 1688, beware of "super clone" replicas. Experts recommend:

• Always request movement photos showing the balance wheel
• Check serial number registrations pre-purchase
• Use Kakobuy's inspection service (¥120 extra)

Shipping/Import Realities

Key logistics facts when using Kakobuy:

Payment Security

Unlike platforms directly supporting international cards, 1688 transactions via Kakobuy rely on their escrow service that:

• Verifies goods before final payment
• Can mediate disputes during the 7-day return window
• Allows charge reversal in undisclosed provenance cases

Case Study: Estimated Savings

A Panerai Luminor Base (Model PAM00560) purchased through this method:

• US Retail: $6,200 + tax
• 1688 Price: ¥18,799 (~$2,618)
• With Kakobuy Fees & Shipping: ~$3,100 total

Resulting in 50% savings, albeit with extended waiting periods and no manufacturer warranty.

Financial Planning Considerations

Conclusion

While buying luxury watches through 1688 and Kakobuy requires patience and due diligence, the potential savings make it appealing for educated buyers. Always verify sources through community resources like the linked spreadsheet, understand customs risks, and budget for unforeseen expenses. When executed properly, this method allows access to coveted timepieces that might otherwise be financially out of reach.