SS Belt, Buckle and Cross Strap for possible purchase - Wisdom and guidance appreciated!

[Rock Rey]

Ben, much appreciated.

[Ben Evans]

but without knowing which iteration it is a fake of, or what is so glaringly obvious about it that identifies as a fake, I am still in the dark.

I couldn't find a solid place to start identifying this particular buckle.

Just further info to add to your questions this fake does not really equate to any known original, it does not represent either the late war steel buckles or the earlier nickel ones. Have a read through he SS makers thread and you will see what I mean.