SA belt buckle genuine?

[Adyraphael]

In my opinion this is a copy but I want the opinion of some experienced collectors. Thanks moderators and contributors!

[David North]

I think that your initial reaction is correct, insofar as the buckle shown is probably a cast fake. Most SA-Wehrmannschaften buckles in collections are near mint to mint, although worn examples and without the factory applied silver grey lacquer do exist. This is a white metal buckle in an original form and the one shown is perhaps the slightly dirty grey colour, indicative of the cast fakes. I think that the reverse detail and especially to the markings are indistinct (especially the RZM logo), coupled with perhaps signs of casting bumps. All the trademarks of a cast fake.

Not one that I feel at all comfortable with.

Regards,

David

[David North]

RZM and makers number detail.

[lach470]

Can't agree more with David. I too consider it a cast alum. Fake.
Rob

[yellow12]

Hello,

yes it is a moldet Fake ..........

[Ben Evans]

Mmmm, they are getting better, there is even the crack in that one!

[David North]

Dear Ben

The fakers have indeed replicated the hairline tool flaw seen on the majority of original SA-Wehrmannschaften buckles. Having said that, they really had no choice. An original example of a buckle is used to produce a master mould and even though they may have found a mint example, it would more than likely have displayed the flaw. The flaw could and with a bit of work have been taken out from the master mould, although that would have been similar to stamping FAKE on the buckle. So, a fake faithfully replicating by casting, a die stamp flaw.

As a matter of minor interest, there are known original examples of the SA-Wehrmannschaften buckle which do not display this reverse detail flaw.

Regards,

David

[Ben Evans]

Thanks for that David, I must admit I have never seen an example without the flaw, it would be interesting to see one if anyone has such an example?

[lach470]

I'll also add my name to that list!
Would love to see a real one without that flaw. A first for me!

Cheers!
Rob