Early Assmann Pilot's Badge with Flat Pin

[J Temple-West]

Reverse..

[J Temple-West]

In case..

[J Temple-West]

Early type..

[TobyR]

Thanks for all the comments on this.

It looks like most people are in favour of the rivets been original and quite a few supporters for the pin. Personally, I do still feel that it (the pin) is original: I can see no signs that it has been messed with and the wear and patination across the extent of the barrel, and also the pin itself, is entirely consistent, as is the level of finish remaining. The pin also moves perfectly within the hinge assembly, i.e. it is not at all sloppy or ill-fitting.

Anyway, I will try and sort out some more photos shortly to better show the hinge / pin area.

All the best,
Toby.

[J Temple-West]

Hi Toby,

I'm not saying that the replacement of the pin was a sloppy job, indeed, nicely done. Being pre-war, it wouldn't have been a field repair, more likely a job done by a jeweler. As far as the overall consistency of the patina to the barrel is concerned, I would say that the original pin went missing, the original barrel was left in place and the replacement pin was soldered to it. The years then did their work in forming the patina over the entire surface of the parts..

I've posted the example of the flat pin type that you mentioned ( I hope the owner has no objections) and as you will see, there is no comparison.

[TobyR]

Hi John,

Thanks for posting the images. I've been trying to get some better photos of the hinge on mine but have now given up due to my inability to get a sharp photo. I think my camera is suffering from 2005 curse.

I must admit that I am still a supporter of the belief that the pin is original. If I can (eventually) get some decent shots, perhaps I can convert you.

I've also been trying to get a decent shot across the badge, showing just how thin the wreath and eagle are. Works of art IMHO; hard to capture on a digital camera though.

Thanks and all the best,
Toby.

[IVAN]

I agree with J Temple about case, it's a bit more late ( beginnen of war ) , case showed from J Temple is correct.

I believe pin is its original, in #5 is evident how material is identical with hinge material , don't show replacements and silver paint on pin is identical as wreath .

[TobyR]

Hi Ivan,

Thanks for replying.

The points you mention re. the pin are what I have been trying to capture on photograph - alas without much success presently.

I think when you have the badge in hand, it is much easier to appreciate the continuation of finish across both pin and hinge, as well as the conformity of wear / patination.

I will try again today.

All the best,
Toby.