Discussion of Junker "2" EK 1

[Sebastian Bianchi]

Excellent, I look forward to the pictures. For the record, I passed on this Cross at the show since it didn't seem right - although like I said it looked good, it wasn't good enough for the reasons I mentioned in the first post, namely the "2" and the date. Since I don't have it I can only go from memory and the pictures posted here (like everyone else). If it didn't sell, the EK will be at the next Union show at which time I could have more details.

In the meantime, let's see if we can get some photos.

Seba

[Eric Stahlhut]

I have not yet been able to find an example being sold as a repro yet, but I'm sure one will pop up eventually.

I have had the opportunity to hold and inspect these types, and here are some of the things that I don't like:

The core seems to be of an inferior type of metal that corrodes very easily regardless of the condition of the frames (which are minty fresh). If a core shows signs of corrosion I would expect the frames to have signs of oxidation or wear. The '1939' on the core is too low.

The frames, hinge, and pin assemblies are made of a 'modern' alloy that is light and hard yet brittle. Frames have some flaws.

Pin is too short and pretty flimsy and light when compared to your 'normal' EK1. As I stated before, they can be seen with conflicting makers' marks on them. Hinge and pin are too loose for an EK1 that purportedly has had very little wear.

The overall heft of the piece feels wrong. It is too light.

[Joseph D'Errico]

Junker S "2" stamp

Hi Sebastian, I'm not sure about the authenticity of the medal itself, as you said the pictures are not the best. But the "2" isn't the Junker stamped "2" This stamp really looks to be added. The whole badge might be a repo. I think it is, but I'm not an expert. I have a few Junker stamped items with the number "2" and the one on yours is totally different. I hope that I have helped you. Any chance in getting your money back? Go to my profile and click on the link to my website , I have an Eagle Order Third class stamped "2" for Junkers.
Joseph

[Sebastian Bianchi]

Thanks for the comments - I didn't buy the cross, I just took a picture. Something was not right about it.

Seba

[Doug See]

I have an unmarked rayed screwback with a very similar frame, but no rust on the core. It's got to be from the same maker. The swaz is very sharp and almost, but not quite up to the top of the beading. The little ridge on the inside edge is visible, too. The date sits low exactly like this one. I've never been comfortable with and have received mixed reviews from people I've shown it too. The metal just doesn't look right on it--somewhere between silver and sta-brite alloy. I could never look anyone in the eye and call it an original for sure. The dealer I bought it from wasn't positive either. It'll just stay in my collection as a mystery.

[Eric Stahlhut]

Not for me

The ridge on the edge of the disc is a dead giveaway. Real discs don't have this ridge. IMHO

Also, the placement of the retaining pin is too high up on the upper arm of the cross.