Unknown Maker Pilot - Aluminum Version?

[ERIC S.]

Hi Guys,
I would like to hear some opinions on the following example if you would be so kind. I have the oppertunity to purchase this Pilot Badge, but, the fact that I've never seen a complete Aluminum badge from the "Unknown Maker" has me overly cautious. As I stated it is completely aluminum, except for the pin itself, which is magnetic. I've never encountered this on an alu piece, exception being that it was a replacement, which this does not appear to be. The wreath looks good to me - even has hand finishing on the edges. The eagle itself looks good to me as well, but the coloration looks wierd to me. The badge weighs in at 15.5 grams, right in range where an alu would be. The catch is a thick one, like seen on alu Juncker examples. Rivits are alu as well with rounded tops, something I'm used to seeing on aluminums. Hinge is not the 'usual' style found on UM's either. I like the badge as a whole, but these oddities have me scratching my head. Thanks in advance with any help / opinions!
ERIC

[ERIC S.]

Reverse:

[ERIC S.]

More Pics:

[ERIC S.]

Hinge / Catch:

[Frank Heukemes]

Dear Eric,

You have every right to be cautious as this is DEFINTELY a fake. I know for sure because I bought an observer badge with the very same wreath. This kind of wreath tries to imitate the unknown maker wreath and is quite successful at it, but you can spot differences when you compare them directly. These fake wreathes are super detailed and razorsharp, unlike the original, much softer detailed wreathes. As an example, focus on the oak leaves and you will easily spot the difference. I attached the fake I once bought with the very same wreath:

[Frank Heukemes]

rev

[Frank Heukemes]

same fake as yours:

[Frank Heukemes]

reverse

[Frank Heukemes]

And you defintely know it is crap when this guy, the Afrikaheld, offers it:

[Frank Heukemes]

reverse AH

[ERIC S.]

Thank you very much Frank!! I really appreciate the information and the pics of the other fakes. I had no idea - this was the first time that I've seen this particular fake!! I had that familiar 'gut' feeling that this was a reproduction, but it really is made so well that I needed to make sure. It could easily fool many. Again, many thanks Frank!
ERIC

[Frank Heukemes]

You are welcome Eric! The most terrible and expensive mistake one can make with these is the P/O badge, there is also one available with that eagle/wreath.