UBB.threads Forums Uniform & Accessories Belts and Buckles Forum Opinions on this SS buckle?

Could anyone help me out with this one?
Sorry, these are the only pictures I got so far.

Anyone?
Think about buying it, auction ending in 2 days.

Don't know much about buckles, but many are reproduced, some better than others. What concerns me here is the red-orange rust. Usually, Old rust is more brown in appearance. However, bright light can bring out the reddish color. "Artificial aging" is a trick often used to convince a potential buyer of authenticity. Nothing really jumps out, in my limited knowledge, this is a fake, but a more expert opinion is needed.

Looks like a 36/42 fake IMHO.

+1

Yes it's a 36/42 fake...

Could somebody please tell us why it is a fake? Thanks.

Just read this thread. I wish someone would answer Grumpy's question. I agree with the rusting prognosis, it looks like rust developed from a year or two, not seven decades. The steel around the rust looks quite clean and new.

I bought an original aluminium SS belt buckle a few years ago from Paul Hogel, but I am frankly scared to purchase any on auction sites or from less experienced dealers due to the proliferation of fakes. Would I be correct in thinking that one has to be even more careful when handling steel buckles as these have been more widely faked?

Well, they fake just abut every type these days, steel, aluminum, nickel-silver, officer and other ranks - all are faked and some are quite good. That's why I asked my question here. I would hesitate to buy any buckle from anyone but perhaps a trusted dealer or veteran.

I like the tongue closer to the wing. Always. Although I might miss a variant. It works.